JobsGenerac

Power System Controls Engineer

Generac · IL

Posted Aug 24, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Sep 20, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

Behavioral

Describe a time you had to modify a template HMI to fit a project-specific PLC program. What went wrong and how did you catch it.

attention to detail and whether they have real experience adapting standardized tools to custom jobs

Tell me about a project where you had to coordinate with purchasing, suppliers, contractors, and end users at the same time, and something almost fell through the cracks.

cross-functional coordination skill in a role that touches many disciplines

Tell me about a time you had to mentor or train a less experienced engineer on controls design or PLC programming. What did you focus on.

ability to transfer knowledge, since this senior role includes mentoring duties

Describe a design review you led or participated in where you caught a significant error before it went to manufacturing.

rigor and whether design review is a real habit or an afterthought

Tell me about a new automation technology you researched and pushed to bring into a project. What happened with it.

initiative and curiosity about new tools, since the posting explicitly wants someone who tracks emerging technology

Technical

Walk me through how you would design a control scheme for switchgear that parallels multiple generators to one or more utility sources.

whether the candidate actually understands paralleling and synchronization logic at a systems level, not just PLC syntax

Tell me about a PLC program you wrote or modified for generator paralleling switchgear. What platform was it on and what made it tricky.

hands-on depth with real paralleling control code versus generic PLC experience

What's your experience with communication protocols like Modbus or Canbus in a switchgear or microgrid control setup, and where have you seen them cause integration problems.

depth beyond buzzwords on protocols that actually get used in this equipment

How would you approach designing grounding schemes and one-line diagrams for a low or medium voltage system where you're not sure the customer's existing documentation is accurate.

whether they know how to verify field conditions rather than trust paperwork blindly

What experience do you have with UL891, UL1558, or UL508A standards, and how have they shaped a design you worked on.

specific regulatory knowledge relevant to switchgear certification, since it's called out as a plus

Situational

Say a customer's spec conflicts with NEC or NFPA requirements on a project you're designing. What do you do.

judgment on code compliance versus customer pressure, and whether they escalate correctly

You're on a startup commissioning site and the generator control system isn't behaving as designed. Walk me through how you troubleshoot it on site.

real-world troubleshooting method under time and travel pressure, not just theoretical knowledge

How do you handle a situation where you're juggling multiple project deadlines that suddenly shift and conflict with each other.

time management and prioritization under the deadline-driven, frequently changing schedule this job describes

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The full job description

As published by Generac.

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most. For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future. Ready to Power a Smarter World with us? JOB SUMMARY: The Senior Control Systems Engineer position oversees the development, execution and delivery of control system projects. Responsibilities include automation controls systems design, PLC/SCADA programming, simulation and testing, and start up commissioning.  The Senior Control Systems Engineer also contributes to overall team performance by training/mentoring associates, providing technical assistance, and improving processes and standards. Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Interpret project write-ups, customer specifications, drawings and correspondence • Develop detailed electrical designs for low & medium voltage switchgear & controls for systems that control multiple generators and parallel to one or more utility sources • Research & create Bill of Material • Create AC and DC schematics, component layouts, wiring diagrams, and one-line diagrams for project submittals, construction drawings and As-built's • Coordinate with purchasing and suppliers to specify & approve component parts and assemblies • Design and implement power system control schemes including switchgear transfer control, load management control, generator control, microgrid control and SCADA system development. • Create or modify PLC programs for control of generator paralleling switchgear • Modify template HMI programs to coincide with project-specific PLC programs • Ensure designs comply with applicable codes, NFPA, NEC, and UL • Provide Engineering/Technical support to manufacturing, test and product support • Complete design reviews to check accuracy and completeness of designs • Research and learn what new technology is available & applicable for projects   NOTE:  This job description is not all-inclusive and other duties and responsibilities may be assigned as necessary. In keeping with our corporate culture, all employees are expected to do "whatever it takes" to get the job done. Qualifications Education and Experience • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) or related field is preferred • 5+ years’ experience with programming Industrial controls, PLC’s, HMI’s and Industrial communication protocols; • Formalized training and/or education in Industrial Automation, Engineering, Computer Science, or MIS; • Experience implementing software used in 24x7 shop floor environments. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities • Knowledge of low and medium voltage power systems design including grounding schemes. • Knowledge of design of switchgear, ATS and generator systems, development of control system sequence of operations, installation plans and test plans. • Knowledge of installation, troubleshooting, design and programming of automated control systems using PLC's, HMI's, PC controls, and distributed processing • Ability to read schematics and blueprints for power control and automation at a Power Systems level • Experience creating drawings in AutoCad or AutoCad Electrical • Knowledge of multiple PLC platforms, (Rockwell/Allen Bradley, Modicon/Schneider Electric, Siemens, GE), HMI Software (Rockwell, Siemens, GE, Wonderware) and communication protocols such as Modbus and Canbus is required • Knowledge of electrical codes is essential • Knowledge of generator synchronization systems and support controls required • Knowledge of UL891, UL1558, UL Medium Voltage & UL508A would be a plus • Experience in dealing with multiple disciplines such as contractors, consultants, engineers, end users, etc. • Highly customer centric and a strong team player with a sense of urgency • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to work effectively within cross functional teams • Attention to detail, efficient time-management and effective planning skills with the ability to quickly adapt to multiple and often changing schedules and priorities in a deadline driven environment Salary for East Peoria, IL: $100,300 - $160,500 Salary for Fort Collins, CO & Denver, CO: $135,000 to $178,000 Position Demands Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear; and use hands to manipulate objects or controls.  The employee is regularly required to stand and walk.  On occasion the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend or reach above the shoulders.  The employee must occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Specific conditions of this job include are typical of frequent and continuous computer-based work requiring periods of sitting, close vision and ability to adjust focus. Occasional travel. Work Environment • Office area • Manufacturing shop environment Work Hazards: Manufacturing Environment Hazards, Noise Exposure, Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards, Ergonomic Hazards, Travel Hazards, Eye Hazards “We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.”

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