Controls Designer II

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is an industry-leading provider of electric motor, generator, control, and service solutions critical to Naval applications for more than 120 years. Located in Thomaston, Connecticut, Ward Leonard has worked hard to build a reputation as being a trusted name in powering the defense industry. This trust within the market is not possible without the continued hard work, commitment, and dedication of our team who respect the importance of what we do and the impact it has on the servicemen and women.


Mission-Driven. Honor-Bound. Fairbanks Morse Defense. What’s your calling? For the men and women of Fairbanks Morse Defense, it’s the rapid and effective support of the fleets that entrust us to design, develop, and deliver the best naval power technology on the planet. We’re one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and dedicated teams that provide reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. When you join Fairbanks Morse Defense, you join a legacy of commitment that spans 150 years. Fairbanks Morse Defense offers competitive benefits with a wide range of training and development opportunities. Our world-class teams are dedicated to helping every individual achieve their full potential. Discover what it’s like to be a part of the Fairbanks Morse Defense team here: https://www.fairbanksmorsedefense.com/careers


Position Overview:
The Controls Designer II will provide advanced technical support in developing and improving control panels and components. This role involves leveraging extensive design and drafting expertise to create and revise technical documentation, production drawings, and bills of materials while ensuring compliance with military and industrial standards. The individual will serve as a key team member in sustaining legacy products and supporting new product development, while also mentoring junior team members. This role is ideal for someone with a technical background and strong organizational skills, looking to grow within the field of controls engineering.

In this function you will:
• Use CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) to create and revise production drawings (detail and assembly drawings).
• Convert existing production or engineering drawings to SolidWorks and complete red-line markups from Engineering Change Notices (ECNs).
• Support engineering efforts by documenting designs of electromagnetic devices, including motors and controls, for military and commercial customers.
• Provide technical support in the development and improvement of all company products, ensuring compliance with customer specifications and company policies.
• Update bills of materials using various design and product data management tools (SolidWorks, EPDM, and ERP systems like Visual).
• Ensure documentation compliance with applicable military and industrial standards.
• Participate in Kaizen events and other continuous improvement efforts.
• Provide technical assistance to internal teams, including Sales, Manufacturing, and Finance, to support product development, costing, and production.
• Assure accurate transfer of engineering data into ERP systems.
• May require the use of basic measurement equipment to create models from existing parts.
• Tracks open EC’s and coordinates progression from open to close.
• Track prototype parts by coordinating with Management, Planning, and Purchasing
• Assists Management in overseeing drafting and engineering project responsibilities
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic (Required) Qualifications:
• Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Design, or a related field (ASEE or ASME preferred).
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in electrical/mechanical design and drafting, preferably within a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Strong knowledge of electrical-mechanical systems and modern manufacturing processes.
• Expertise in 2D and 3D CAD systems (SolidWorks required).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Ability to work independently with a high level of accuracy, attention to detail, and time-management skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to build peer relationships and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in electrical/mechanical engineering or a related field.
• Experience in Lean Manufacturing principles and Kaizen events.
• Familiarity with military specifications, standards, and compliance requirements.

Position Criteria:
• Proficient in reading and interpreting work orders, schematics, technical proced