Job Description

Cogent, Inc., is seeking a Control Systems Engineer to join our team in Kansas City. The Control Systems Engineer quotes, designs, programs, and supports innovative industrial control systems, from initial concept through commissioning. This role works closely with engineers, fabricators, and field service teams to ensure reliable, high-performance automation solutions that meet customer requirements, safety standards, and performance expectations. You’ll bring together your knowledge of controls hardware, PLC/HMI programming, and process integration to deliver systems that help our customers operate smarter, safer, and more efficiently.

• Design and develop industrial control systems, including hardware selection, schematic design, and programming.
• Develop PLC, HMI, and SCADA applications using industry-standard platforms.
• Prepare system specifications, I/O lists, and documentation packages.
• Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams for seamless system integration.
• Provide technical support for control panel fabrication, wiring, and testing.
• Conduct on-site or remote system commissioning, testing, and operator training.
• Assist with project management tasks — scope definition, quoting, scheduling, and budget tracking.
• Support sales and estimating teams with control system concepts and scope development.
• Troubleshoot system and instrumentation issues to ensure reliable operation.
• Contribute to standardization and continuous improvement of Cogent’s design and engineering practices.

Work Environment/Travel Expectations

This position offers a mix of office and field-based work to support diverse project needs. Typical allocation includes approximately 40% on-site (customer or field locations), 60% in-office, and up to 20% overnight travel for commissioning, training, or project support as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a Technical Degree with equivalent experience.
• Experience in industrial control system design, programming, and integration.
• Working knowledge of PLC and HMI platforms (Allen-Bradley preferred).
• Strong understanding of control circuits, instrumentation, and VFD integration.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical for schematic design.
• Excellent communication, time management, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as project needs require.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SCADA and historian systems.
• Familiarity with UL 508A control panel standards and electrical safety codes.
• Experience in water/wastewater or process automation industries.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with shifting priorities.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

Why Work with Us?

Cogent is a growing organization with a long-term focus on delivering engineered solutions, equipment sales, repair services, installation, and proactive system support. We are driven by a mission to minimize customer downtime, improve system efficiency, and deliver the best long-term value.

At Cogent, you’re not just an employee—you’re an owner. Our employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) empowers every team member to think and act like a business partner. Your contributions matter here.

We Offer

• Employee Ownership (ESOP) – Share in our success
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Profit-Sharing Bonuses
• Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance
• Generous PTO, Paid Holidays & Volunteer Time Off
• Career Development & Advancement Opportunities
• A Collaborative Culture that Values Innovation and Accountability

Join Us

At Cogent, we believe the best solutions come from empowered people. If you’re passionate about engineering excellence and thrive in a team-focused environment that values ownership, innovation, and integrity — we want to hear from you!

Apply today and help us build something exceptional — together!