Controls Engineering CO-OP

POSITION SPECIFICATION

Position: Controls Engineering Co-op

Department: Performance Group (PG)

Start Date: Spring Term 2027, with potential for additional Co‑op rotations

WHO WE ARE

KFI Engineers is a recognized industry leader in facility infrastructure design and performance. Since 1996, our culture of collaboration and unique capabilities have allowed us to make a difference in the way infrastructure and processing projects are delivered. 

Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, with numerous regional offices throughout the United States, and a team of hundreds of professionals, we offer opportunities to continue your career with mentorship programs, career growth support, and continued education. With KFI, we find a way to provide creative solutions to unique projects while providing the same care we would expect if we were the client. For more information about KFI Engineers and our culture, please visit www.kfi-eng.com. 

THE OPPORTUNITY

At KFI, we see Co-ops as a valuable investment in our future. Our Co-op program offers you the opportunity to learn our business, gain exposure to various projects and industry sectors, and enhance your engineering skills.

Co-op Program Benefits

• Hands-on, real-world experience in the consulting engineering industry.
• Work with impactful projects.
• Learning opportunities through mentorship.
• Occasional site visits.
• Network with leading experts in the industry.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Controls Engineering Co-Op solves problems by applying both industrial and commercial control technologies to a variety of fields, with an emphasis on energy systems. The position requires technical competence, creativity, attention to detail, self-direction, and a commitment to excellent customer service.

Specific responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following: 

• Site visits to gather field information as required.
• Perform engineering calculations and develop Excel spreadsheets.
• Prepare design documents (system architecture diagrams, schematics, panel layouts, installation drawings, functional descriptions, equipment specifications).
• Write control sequence of operations.
• Analyze system operational performance and develop recommendations for improvement.
• Assist in writing and debugging control logic for programmable logic controllers (PLCs), Direct Digital Controls (DDC), and/or similar platforms.
• Develop applications using SCADA and HMI software.
• Utilize SQL for analytical data collection.
• Assist in startup, commissioning, and fine-tuning of control systems.
• Troubleshoot low voltage control and electrical circuits.
• Participate in company meetings, providing analysis, input, and recommendations.
• Assist in developing and maintaining project schedules.
• Manage workload across assigned activities to meet deadlines.
• Write reports and present research to the Performance Group team.
• Learn to use new tools as technology and company needs evolve.
• Support other Commissioning and Recommissioning activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Pursuing an Associate or Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering related discipline.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer technology, including MS Office applications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Effective time management and organizational abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively, adapting quickly to shifting priorities and workload demands.
• Consistently demonstrate professional engineering ethics and adhere to company policies and procedures.
• Ability and willingness to travel if needed.

Preferred

• Completed at least two years of relevant college coursework.
• Interest in completing multiple Co‑op rotations (consecutive or alternating semesters).
• Working knowledge of engineering design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit).
• Possess understanding of control system architecture and sequence of operation development, control panel layout/design, control logic development in PLC (Allen Bradley/Emerson) or DCS environments and HMI (Wonderware) system application development.
• Experience specifying instrumentation for flow, pressure, temperature and be capable of selecting and sizing modulating valves for steam and water applications.
• Interest in building systems, construction environments, and/or commercial HVAC.
• Comfortable working in both office and construction site settings.
• Ability to conduct meetings and project presentations.

Working Conditions 

• Occasionally, some work locations will feature the tough terrain typical of construction sites or require lifting or moving field testing equipment.

CORE BEHAVIORS 

Accountable

• Demonstrates persistence in the achievement of goals.
• Acts with a sense of urgency.
• Takes responsibility for own actions.

Business Focus

• Demonstrates agility, adapts well to changes.
• Works well under pressure.
• Meets commitments to internal/external customers.

 Project Execution

• Plans projects well, managing last-minute rushes and disruptions.
• Balances Speed and Quality.
• Looks for improvement in our delivery, tools and processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Demonstrates Respect for Others

• Keeps others adequately informed.
• Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.
• Adapts communication style and method based on audience and situation.

Team Player

• Balances team and individual responsibilities.
• Shares expertise with others.
• Inspires respect and trust.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.

KFI Engineers is an EOE including veterans and disability.