One significant resume challenge faced by controls engineers is effectively demonstrating their technical skills and experiences in a way that's understandable to HR professionals who may not be familiar with the terminology. Our guide offers clear instructions on how to translate complex engineering tasks into simple, yet impactful language, enabling prospective employers from varying backgrounds to appreciate your capabilities and expertise.
Dive into our concise guide to learn how to:
- Show your controls engineer career's brightest moments through your resume's summary, objective, and experience sections.
- Explore top-notch controls engineer resume examples to understand how to distinguish yourself from other candidates.
- Identify the most sought-after controls engineer skills and certifications in the industry.
- Design a structured yet unique resume layout.
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simple guide to your controls engineer resume format
Successful controls engineer resumes all have something in common - candidates invest in a simple resume layout . One that is easy to read, makes a good first impression, and is adapted to their professional experience.
There are three distinct resume formats , which help you focus on different aspects of your resume. Those are:
- A reverse-chronological resume format - puts your most recent experience in the spotlight
- A functional skill-based resume format that makes your transferrable skills the center of attention
- A hybrid resume format - it combines skills and experiences.
What's more, keep in mind that your resume usually goes through an ATS (Applicant Tracker System) (i.e. the software used by companies in the hiring process).
The controls engineer resumes that suit the ATS:
- incorporate exact match keywords and skills from the job description;
- should be no longer than two pages;
- should be submitted in a PDF format, unless specified otherwise.
Consider the local standards – Canadian resumes, for example, may have a different format.
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Pro tip
Make sure your resume is ATS compliant and catches the recruiters' attention by tailoring your experience to the specific job requirements. Quantify and highlight why you're the best candidate for the role on the first page of your resume.
Don't forget to include these six sections on your compensation analyst resume:
- A header for your contact details and a summary that highlight your alignment with the compensation analyst job you're applying for
- An experience section that explains how you apply your technical and personal skills to deliver successful results
- A skills section that further highlights how your profile matches the job requirements
- An education section that provides your academic background
- An achievements' section that mentions any career highlights that may be impressive, or that you might have missed so far in other resume sections
What recruiters want to see on your resume:
- Experience with control system design and analysis: Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, Simulink, or equivalent is highly valued.
- Knowledge of PLC programming: Proficiency in languages such as Ladder Logic, Structured Text, or Function Block Diagrams is crucial for many controls engineering roles.
- Understanding of control theory: This includes knowledge of PID controllers, state space models, frequency domain techniques, etc.
- Hands-on experience with automation systems: Experience with SCADA, DCS, or other industrial automation systems can be a major asset.
- Certifications and education: A degree in electrical engineering or a related field, along with relevant certifications (like Certified Control Systems Technician), can demonstrate formal training and commitment to the field.
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Strategies for crafting your controls engineer resume experience section
When detailing your controls engineer resume experience, it's essential to pair responsibilities with tangible achievements.
Consider including:
- Key responsibilities, emphasizing their significance to your role, team, or organization.
- Experiences that have fostered your technical acumen or professional growth.
- Metrics that underscore your contributions and successes.
- Challenges you've addressed and the solutions you've implemented.
- Strategies you've devised and their measurable impact on growth.
Your experience section is pivotal in making a lasting impression on recruiters. To inspire you, we've curated real-world controls engineer examples:
- Developed and implemented control strategies for industrial automation systems resulting in a 20% increase in production efficiency.
- Designed and executed complex PLC programming to optimize manufacturing processes and reduce downtime by 15%.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to integrate motion control systems, leading to a 30% reduction in cycle time.
- Performed troubleshooting and diagnostic analysis of control systems, identifying and resolving issues to minimize production interruptions.
- Managed the installation and commissioning of control systems for a new production line, ensuring timely project completion within budget.
- Developed and maintained HMI/SCADA systems, enhancing operator visibility and reducing system response time by 25%.
- Led the upgrade of legacy control systems to modern platforms, resulting in improved reliability and reduced maintenance costs.
- Collaborated with electrical engineers to design and implement control panels for new equipment installations.
- Conducted thorough system testing and validation to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Provided technical support and training to operations personnel on control system functionality and troubleshooting procedures.
- Designed and programmed PID control algorithms for temperature, pressure, and flow control systems, resulting in precise and stable operation.
- Collaborated with mechanical engineers to develop control strategies for robotic systems, improving accuracy and reducing cycle time by 10%.
- Implemented safety interlock systems to ensure compliance with industry standards and prevent hazardous conditions.
- Performed system optimization and tuning to maximize equipment performance and minimize energy consumption.
- Led a team in the successful integration of a new control system for a large-scale industrial project, meeting strict project deadlines.
- Developed customized software tools for data analysis and reporting, streamlining decision-making processes.
- Assisted in the installation and commissioning of control systems at client sites, ensuring seamless system integration.
- Provided technical expertise in troubleshooting and resolving complex control system issues, minimizing downtime.
- Collaborated with R&D teams to test and validate new control algorithms and hardware components.
- Supported customer requirements by developing and delivering training programs on control system operation and maintenance.
- Designed and implemented PLC-based control systems for small-scale manufacturing processes, increasing productivity by 15%.
- Assisted in the development of control system specifications and engineering documentation.
- Conducted field inspections and audits to assess control system performance and identify improvement opportunities.
- Collaborated with suppliers to select and procure control system components within budgetary constraints.
- Provided technical support during the installation and startup phases of control system projects.
- Assisted in the design and programming of PLC control logic for conveyor systems, ensuring efficient material handling.
- Performed system troubleshooting and resolved software and hardware issues to maintain optimal system performance.
- Collaborated with maintenance teams to develop preventive maintenance procedures for control system equipment.
- Supported project managers in the execution of control system projects, ensuring adherence to scope and schedule.
- Conducted acceptance tests on control panels and components to ensure compliance with design specifications.
- Assisted in the installation and wiring of control panels and field devices as per engineering drawings and schematics.
- Performed routine maintenance and calibration of control system instruments to ensure accurate measurement and control.
- Supported controls engineers in the testing and validation of control system functionality.
- Maintained an organized inventory of control system spare parts and components.
- Provided technical assistance during control system commissioning and startup activities.
- Assisted senior engineers in the design and documentation of control system architectures.
- Performed basic PLC programming tasks and ladder logic troubleshooting.
- Created and updated technical documentation, including control system diagrams and user manuals.
- Supported the procurement process by preparing and reviewing technical specifications for control system components.
- Assisted in the configuration and testing of control system software and hardware.
- Assisted in the assembly and testing of electrical control panels for industrial machinery.
- Performed quality inspections on control system components to ensure adherence to specifications.
- Supported the controls team in general administrative tasks, such as organizing documentation and filing.
- Contributed to the maintenance of control system equipment and tools.
- Assisted technicians in the troubleshooting and repair of control system devices.
- Designing and implementing advanced control strategies utilizing machine learning algorithms to optimize manufacturing processes.
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and integrate IoT-enabled control systems for smart factories.
- Leading the implementation of cybersecurity measures to protect critical control systems from potential threats.
- Conducting feasibility studies and cost-benefit analysis for control system upgrades and modernization projects.
- Providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior controls engineers to enhance their skills and knowledge.
The following content includes information from "O*NET OnLine" by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. The data represents the top responsibilities present on the task lists for controls engineer professionals.
Top Responsibilities for Controls Engineer:
- Design, implement, maintain, or improve electrical instruments, equipment, facilities, components, products, or systems for commercial, industrial, or domestic purposes.
- Oversee project production efforts to assure projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Direct or coordinate manufacturing, construction, installation, maintenance, support, documentation, or testing activities to ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements.
- Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish manufacturing, construction, or installation standards or specifications.
- Operate computer-assisted engineering or design software or equipment to perform engineering tasks.
- Confer with engineers, customers, or others to discuss existing or potential engineering projects or products.
- Investigate or test vendors' or competitors' products.
- Inspect completed installations and observe operations to ensure conformance to design and equipment specifications and compliance with operational, safety, or environmental standards.
- Investigate customer or public complaints to determine the nature and extent of problems.
- Prepare technical drawings, specifications of electrical systems, or topographical maps to ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements.
Quantifying impact on your resume
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Addressing a lack of relevant controls engineer experience
Even if you lack direct controls engineer experience, you can still craft a compelling resume. Here's how:
- Highlight projects or publications that demonstrate your relevant skills or knowledge.
- Emphasize transferable skills, showcasing your adaptability and eagerness to learn.
- In your objective, outline your career aspirations and how they align with the company's goals.
- Consider a functional or hybrid resume format, focusing on skills over chronological experience.
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Pro tip
Boost your resume by focusing on the practical aspects of each job requirement. While it's good to have job-related keywords on your resume, ensure they're backed by action verbs and quantifiable data. This gives recruiters a clear picture of your controls engineer professional journey.
Spotlighting your controls engineer hard and soft skills
Hard skills denote your technological proficiency and expertise in specific tools or software. These skills are often validated through certifications and hands-on experience.
Soft skills, on the other hand, reflect your interpersonal abilities and how you navigate workplace dynamics. These skills are cultivated over a lifetime and can be more nuanced.
Why the emphasis on both? Hard skills demonstrate your technical competence and reduce training needs. Soft skills suggest adaptability and cultural fit.
To optimize your skills section:
- Forego basic skills like "Excel" in favor of more specific proficiencies like "Excel Macros".
- Highlight core values and work ethics as soft skills, indicating what you prioritize in a professional setting.
- If relevant, create a distinct section for language proficiencies.
- Balance hard and soft skills by crafting a strengths or achievements section, illustrating outcomes achieved through both skill sets.
To assist you, we've curated a list of skills highly sought after by recruiters. Ensure you integrate those that resonate with your expertise and the prospective employer's needs:
Top skills for your controls engineer resume:
PLC Programming
SCADA Systems
HMI Development
Control Theory
Instrumentation
AutoCAD
MATLAB
PID Control
Industrial Networking
Robotics Programming
Problem Solving
Communication
Teamwork
Attention to Detail
Project Management
Analytical Thinking
Adaptability
Time Management
Critical Thinking
Creativity
Next, you will find information on the top technologies for controls engineer professonals from "O*NET OnLine" by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license.
Top technologies for Controls Engineer’s resume:
- Minitab
- The MathWorks MATLAB
- Microsoft OneNote
- Microsoft Word
- Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D
- Autodesk Revit
Pro tip
If the job emphasizes team or organizational culture, dedicate a section of your resume to underscore your strengths and achievements. Top-tier controls engineer candidates also highlight their alignment with a company's values and culture.
Highlighting certifications and education on your controls engineer resume
Your academic achievements, including certifications and degrees, bolster your application. They showcase your skills and commitment to the field.
To effectively present these on your resume:
- Highlight significant academic achievements or recognitions relevant to the role.
- Be selective; prioritize the most relevant and impressive certifications.
- Include essential details: certificate/degree name, institution, graduation dates, and license numbers (if applicable).
- Present your academic background in reverse chronological order, emphasizing the most recent and relevant qualifications.
For further guidance, explore popular industry certifications.
Best certifications to list on your resume
- Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) - Vehicle Electronic Controls Certificate
- International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)² - Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)
Pro tip
Listing your relevant degrees or certificates on your controls engineer resume is a win-win situation. Not only does it hint at your technical capabilities in the industry, but also at a range of soft skills, including perseverance, adaptability, and motivation.
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Choosing between a resume summary or objective based on your experience
The relevance of a resume summary or a resume objective for your controls engineer application hinges on your experience.
Both provide a snapshot of your expertise and accomplishments. However:
- A resume objective emphasizes your career aspirations, ideal for candidates looking to balance their experience with future goals.
- A resume summary offers a space to detail your unique value and notable accomplishments, perfect for candidates with a rich career history.
Ensure your introduction aligns with the job description, and if possible, quantify details for a compelling narrative.
Resume summary and objective examples for a controls engineer resume
- With over a decade of experience in the automation industry, I led an interdisciplinary team that developed innovative control systems enhancing production efficiency by 20%. Proficient in PLC programming, SCADA development, and process optimization. Seeking to leverage my expertise in a dynamic environment and contribute further to advancing industrial automation.
- Controls engineer possessing 8+ years of working with complex automation systems. Proven ability in utilizing DCS, HMI, and robotics to drive system improvements leading to reduced downtime by 15% and increased throughput by 10%. Eager to apply my skills and leadership in a challenging new setting.
- A seasoned Software Engineer with a deep understanding of algorithms and data structures, transitioning into controls engineering. Leveraged coding proficiency to develop efficient software solutions, achieving 25% cost savings. Excited to bring this foundation to design and implement sophisticated control systems.
- Mechanical Engineer transitioning into controls engineering. Proven analytical skills were crucial in designing and improving mechanical systems, resulting in a 30% increase in operational efficiency. Now eager to leverage my solid foundation in mathematics and physics to excel in developing and troubleshooting control systems.
- A recent graduate in Electrical Engineering, with a high GPA and hands-on experience from university projects involving PLCs and HMIs. Aspiring to apply my academic knowledge towards enhancing the efficiency of industrial processes in a challenging Control Engineer role.
- As an ambitious entry-level candidate with a degree in Mechatronics Engineering, I aim to utilize my robust understanding of control theory, computer science, and mechanical systems to improve automation processes. My academic projects highlight my capability to work with diverse teams, troubleshoot issues, and deliver results under pressure.
Four additional sections to consider for your controls engineer resume
To give a fuller picture of who you are, consider adding these sections to your controls engineer resume:
- Awards - to showcase your achievements.
- Interests - to share passions outside of work.
- Publications - to highlight your contributions to the field.
- Projects - to spotlight significant accomplishments, even those outside of traditional work settings.
Key takeaways
- Your resume's layout should be both visually appealing and content-rich.
- Emphasize achievements that resonate with the job's requirements.
- Detail your skills, both technical and interpersonal, with real-world examples.
- Ensure the top section of your resume provides a clear snapshot of who you are and what you offer.
- When detailing experience, focus on tasks, actions, and their outcomes.
