Customer Service Designer I - Electrical Systems

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Customer Service Designer I - Electrical Systems

Company: Beckwood Press

Location: Fenton, Missouri, United States

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Customer Service & Support / Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-06-10

Experience Level: 1-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing expert technical support for electrical and control systems in custom hydraulic presses and automation equipment.

• Key responsibilities include troubleshooting complex electrical issues, maintaining precise machine documentation, and implementing design improvements for enhanced reliability.

• The position requires a strong analytical aptitude for root-cause analysis and corrective action implementation within an industrial manufacturing environment.

• This role serves as a crucial link between customer service, engineering, manufacturing, and field technicians to ensure optimal machine performance and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges the gap between customer service and electrical engineering, requiring hands-on technical expertise with a strong emphasis on documentation and process control within the industrial automation sector. The "Designer I" title suggests an entry to mid-level position with potential for growth.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Remotely and on-site troubleshoot electrical, controls, and automation-related machine issues for installed equipment.

• Develop, modify, and maintain comprehensive electrical schematics and control panel layouts utilizing AutoCAD Electrical.

• Ensure historical accuracy and stringent revision control of Beckwood's electrical schematic archives, reflecting all field modifications and engineering changes.

• Support root-cause analysis efforts and implement corrective electrical design updates to enhance machine reliability and performance.

• Guarantee compliance with UL508A standards and specific customer requirements in all electrical designs and modifications.

• Adhere to ANSI and NFPA safety regulations within electrical designs and associated modifications.

• Execute electrical design updates and modifications required for machine retrofits, upgrades, repairs, and component replacements.

• Collaborate effectively with service technicians, controls engineers, and manufacturing teams to expedite the resolution of technical issues.

• Provide technical support for troubleshooting PLC I/O, sensors, drives, HMI systems, and field wiring during machine startup and service activities.

• Monitor project and service activity budgets to ensure alignment with quoted parameters and financial objectives.

• Coordinate control cabinet layout design in conjunction with the Service Engineering team.

• Deliver regular progress updates to management and actively participate in technical review meetings.

• Assist with hardware-based customer service issues and provide technical support for customer communications related to issue resolution.

• Maintain Beckwood's standard parts list, boilerplate drawing sets, and component catalog for consistency and efficiency.

• Mentor junior electrical designers, interns, and co-ops, fostering technical growth and knowledge sharing within the team.

• Conduct I/O checkout and prepare Controls Approval documentation for customer sign-off as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on technical role with significant documentation and design responsibilities, emphasizing adherence to industry standards (UL, ANSI, NFPA) and collaboration across departments. The mentoring aspect indicates a progression path within the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Associate degree or higher in a technical discipline (e.g., Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Automation, Electronics).

Experience:

• 1–3 years of experience in a manufacturing, industrial service, controls, or automation environment.

• Alternatively, 3–5 years of relevant industry experience may be considered.

• Demonstrable technical aptitude in electrical systems, troubleshooting methodologies, and engineering processes.

• Proven experience in reading and interpreting complex electrical schematics and control documentation. Required Skills:

• Strong electrical troubleshooting skills for industrial machinery.

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and control documentation.

• Technical aptitude in industrial controls, automation systems, and manufacturing processes.

• Analytical problem-solving skills with a methodical approach to root-cause analysis.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure, particularly when resolving critical customer equipment issues.

• High attention to detail with a commitment to documentation accuracy and stringent revision control.

• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with a focus on prioritizing high-value activities.

• Proven capability to manage multiple concurrent priorities and consistently meet deadlines.

• Results-driven mindset with a strong commitment to achieving defined objectives and project milestones. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical for schematic design and modification.

• Familiarity with PLC programming and troubleshooting (various brands).

• Knowledge of HMI system design and troubleshooting.

• Understanding of UL508A, ANSI, and NFPA standards in electrical design.

• Experience with servo-electric and hydraulic press systems.

• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols.

• Basic project budget monitoring experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of practical technical skills and theoretical knowledge, with a clear preference for AutoCAD Electrical proficiency. The experience levels suggest this is an early-to-mid-career role within the operations and engineering support function.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Troubleshooting Case Studies: Document specific instances where complex electrical or control issues were diagnosed and resolved, detailing the methodology, tools used, and the final resolution.

• Design & Modification Examples: Showcase examples of electrical schematics or control panel layouts created or modified using AutoCAD Electrical, highlighting improvements in clarity, compliance, or functionality.

• Documentation Standards: Present examples of how technical documentation (schematics, BOMs, manuals) was maintained for accuracy and revision control, demonstrating a commitment to process integrity.

• System Integration & Compliance: Include projects or examples that demonstrate an understanding of system integration principles and adherence to industry standards like UL508A, ANSI, and NFPA.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Detail how you would approach documenting and optimizing the process for troubleshooting electrical issues, from initial customer contact to final resolution and knowledge capture.

• Revision Control Procedures: Outline a systematic approach to managing changes in electrical schematics and documentation, ensuring all stakeholders have access to the most current and accurate information.

• Performance Analysis: Explain how you would track and analyze key metrics related to service response times, issue resolution rates, and the impact of design updates on machine reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to demonstrate their practical application of electrical design, troubleshooting, and documentation skills through a portfolio. This emphasis on a portfolio is standard for roles involving design and technical support where tangible evidence of capability is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for an Electrical Systems Designer I role with 1-5 years of experience in the Fenton, MO area, the estimated salary range is $60,000 - $85,000 per year. This estimate considers the technical nature of the role, the requirement for specific software proficiency (AutoCAD Electrical), and the responsibility for critical machine uptime and customer satisfaction.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary

• Bi-annual bonus potential

• Health insurance

• Dental and Vision insurance

• Life insurance

• AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) coverage

• Parental leave

• Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) and sick time

• 401(k) with employer contribution

• Team-focused culture with catered lunches, team-building activities, and employee engagement events. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Primarily day shifts, with potential for occasional extended hours or travel to support critical customer issues or field service activities, often involving up to 25% travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on national averages for similar roles and adjusted for the St. Louis metropolitan area's cost of living and compensation trends for technical positions. The benefits package is comprehensive, indicating a commitment to employee well-being and retention.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Industrial Machinery Manufacturing, specializing in custom hydraulic presses and automation equipment. Beckwood operates in a niche but critical sector that supports a wide array of manufacturing industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, and defense.

Company Size: Beckwood Press is a significant player in its specialized field, likely falling into the medium-sized business category (e.g., 100-500 employees), which often fosters a close-knit, collaborative environment with a direct impact for each employee.

Founded: Established in 1976, Beckwood Press has a long-standing history and a solid reputation built on decades of expertise in complex machinery design and manufacturing. This longevity suggests stability, deep technical knowledge, and a commitment to innovation.

Team Structure:

• Customer Service Department: This role is embedded within the Customer Service department, working closely with service technicians, controls engineers, and project managers.

• Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Customer Service Manager or a Lead Electrical Engineer, with direct interaction and collaboration with various engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, controls) and manufacturing teams.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Essential collaboration with Service, Engineering (electrical, controls, mechanical), Manufacturing, and Field Technicians to diagnose issues, implement solutions, and maintain documentation.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Troubleshooting: Emphasis on systematic analysis of electrical and control system performance data to identify root causes of failures or inefficiencies.

• Process Improvement Focus: Continuous effort to enhance machine reliability, serviceability, and performance through design updates and documentation improvements.

• Agile Support: Adaptability to rapidly diagnose and resolve urgent customer issues, often requiring quick thinking and creative problem-solving.

Company Website: beckwoodpress.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as team-focused and competitive, with a passion for customer satisfaction. The company's history and specialization suggest an environment where deep technical expertise is valued and employees can develop specialized skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an "I" level position (Customer Service Designer I), indicating an entry-level to early-career role within the electrical design and technical support domain. It's suited for individuals with foundational technical education and a few years of practical experience looking to specialize in industrial automation controls.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Customer Service Manager or a Senior Electrical Engineer. The role requires close collaboration with peers in controls engineering, field service, and manufacturing.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts customer satisfaction and operational uptime by ensuring the reliability and performance of critical manufacturing equipment. Effective troubleshooting and design improvements reduce downtime, minimize repair costs, and enhance the overall value of Beckwood's machinery throughout its lifecycle.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop advanced expertise in specific areas like PLC programming, advanced HMI design, servo systems, or specific industry automation requirements.

• Senior Designer/Engineer: Progress to a Customer Service Designer II or a Controls Engineer role, taking on more complex design challenges, project leadership, and mentorship responsibilities.

• Field Service Engineering: Transition to a Field Service role, applying technical knowledge directly on-site with customers globally.

• Project Management: Develop skills in managing service projects, budgets, and timelines, potentially moving into a service project management role.

• Mentorship: Take on leadership responsibilities by mentoring junior staff, as indicated by the "Mentor junior electrical designers" responsibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Designer I" title and associated responsibilities suggest a clear growth path within Beckwood's technical support and engineering structure, with opportunities for specialization and advancement into more senior or specialized roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in a professional office environment at Beckwood's corporate headquarters in Fenton, MO. However, it also requires regular time spent in the manufacturing facility.

Office Location(s): Corporate Headquarters - 2086 Fenton Logistics Blvd, Fenton, MO 63026. This location serves as the central hub for design, manufacturing, and customer support operations.

Workspace Context:

• Office Space: A professional office setting conducive to design work, documentation, and remote support tasks.

• Manufacturing Floor Access: Regular access to the manufacturing facility is essential for inspecting equipment, collaborating with production teams, and understanding the physical context of the electrical systems. This involves exposure to typical manufacturing conditions, including machinery operation and moderate noise levels.

• Collaborative Environment: Opportunities for direct interaction with engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel, fostering a collaborative problem-solving atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time schedule, typically Monday through Friday, approximately 40 hours per week.

• The nature of customer support may occasionally require flexibility to address urgent issues outside standard hours, though this is not the norm for the "Designer I" level. Travel up to 25% is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a hybrid of office-based design and hands-on manufacturing floor interaction, providing a well-rounded experience for a technical role. The travel component is significant for a "Designer I" role, suggesting direct customer-facing responsibilities are integrated early.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume, focusing on technical qualifications, relevant experience, and alignment with the role's core responsibilities.

2. Technical Interview (Phone/Video): Expect questions covering electrical theory, troubleshooting methodologies, experience with control systems (PLCs, HMIs), and familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical. You may be asked to walk through a past troubleshooting scenario.

3. On-site Interview & Portfolio Review: This stage typically involves meeting with the hiring manager, potential team members (engineers, technicians), and possibly a senior leader. You will be asked to present and discuss your portfolio, detailing specific projects, challenges, and solutions. Expect hands-on technical assessments or problem-solving exercises.

4. Final Interview: A final discussion to assess cultural fit, career aspirations, and overall suitability for the role and Beckwood's team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Examples: Choose 3-5 strong examples that best represent your skills in electrical schematic design, troubleshooting, documentation, and adherence to standards.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each example, clearly outline:

  • The Problem/Challenge: What was the issue?
  • Your Approach/Solution: What steps did you take? What tools/software did you use?
  • The Outcome/Impact: What was the result? Quantify if possible (e.g., reduced downtime by X%, improved efficiency by Y%).

• Highlight AutoCAD Electrical Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate your work in AutoCAD Electrical, explaining your design choices and workflow.

• Document Compliance Focus: Showcase how you incorporated UL508A, ANSI, and NFPA standards into your designs or troubleshooting.

• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate detailed questions about your portfolio items and general electrical/controls concepts.

Challenge Preparation:

• Troubleshooting Scenarios: Practice diagnosing common electrical faults in industrial equipment (e.g., motor control issues, sensor failures, PLC I/O problems).

• Schematic Interpretation: Be ready to interpret complex electrical schematics and identify potential issues or areas for improvement.

• Design Principles: Review fundamental electrical design principles and safety regulations relevant to industrial automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to thoroughly assess technical aptitude, practical skills, and problem-solving abilities, with a strong emphasis on the candidate's portfolio as a demonstration of capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD Electrical: Essential for developing, modifying, and maintaining electrical schematics and control panel layouts. Proficiency is a key requirement.

• Microsoft Office Suite: For documentation, reporting, and general office tasks (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Company ERP/MRP System: For managing parts lists, BOMs, and potentially tracking service requests (specific system not listed but common in manufacturing).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Databases/Archives: For accessing historical machine documentation, schematics, and service records.

• Basic Data Analysis Tools: Likely Excel or similar for analyzing troubleshooting data, performance metrics, and budget tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System (Customer Relationship Management): Used for tracking customer interactions, service requests, and support history (specific system not listed).

• Project Management Software: Potential use for tracking service projects and tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: AutoCAD Electrical is the cornerstone technology for this role. Familiarity with common CRM and project management tools used in customer service and engineering support environments would be beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and meeting customer needs, ensuring their equipment operates reliably and efficiently.

• Technical Excellence: Valuing deep technical knowledge, precision in design, and accuracy in documentation.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding high standards in all business dealings, from design integrity to customer communication.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where individuals work together across departments to solve complex problems and achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly seek ways to enhance product performance, serviceability, and internal processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with service, engineering, and manufacturing teams, sharing knowledge and insights to ensure holistic problem-solving.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, direct, and respectful communication, especially when discussing technical issues or potential design improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing technical expertise, best practices, and lessons learned, particularly through mentoring junior team members and maintaining documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Beckwood appears to foster a culture that balances technical rigor with strong interpersonal and collaborative dynamics, essential for a role that interfaces with multiple departments and external customers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Troubleshooting: Diagnosing intricate electrical and control system failures in highly customized, industrial machinery can be demanding.

• Documentation Accuracy: Maintaining meticulous records and schematics for a wide variety of unique machines requires discipline and attention to detail.

• Balancing Urgency and Thoroughness: Effectively managing urgent customer requests while ensuring thorough and accurate technical solutions.

• Adapting to Custom Designs: Each machine may have unique configurations, requiring a flexible and adaptive approach to troubleshooting and design.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with evolving automation technologies, control components, and safety standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific automation technologies, PLC platforms, or advanced troubleshooting techniques.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications relevant to electrical design, industrial automation, or specific control systems.

• Mentorship Programs: Learning from experienced engineers and technicians within the company.

• Exposure to Diverse Industries: Gaining experience with automation challenges across various sectors (aerospace, medical, automotive), broadening technical perspective.

• Project Leadership: Opportunities to lead small design updates or take ownership of specific service-related design tasks as experience grows.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for hands-on learning and skill development in a specialized field, with challenges that directly contribute to professional growth and expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex electrical issue you troubleshooted on industrial equipment. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on methodology, tools, and results).

• "How do you ensure accuracy and control revisions when updating electrical schematics or documentation?" (Highlight your process for documentation management).

• "Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult customer or resolve a critical equipment issue under pressure." (Demonstrate problem-solving, communication, and composure).

• "How do you stay current with electrical standards like UL508A, ANSI, and NFPA?" (Show commitment to compliance and ongoing learning).

• "Walk me through your experience using AutoCAD Electrical for schematic design. What features do you find most valuable?" (Be prepared to discuss your practical application). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Beckwood Press and our custom hydraulic presses/automation equipment?" (Research the company's products, mission, and recent news).

• "How do you approach collaborating with different departments like engineering, manufacturing, and field service?" (Emphasize teamwork and clear communication).

• "Describe your understanding of our commitment to customer satisfaction and equipment reliability." (Align your skills with the company's core values). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise & Focused: Prepare to present 2-3 key projects from your portfolio within a set timeframe.

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your actions, and the positive impact.

• Visual Aids: Be ready to share relevant schematics, photos, or diagrams from your portfolio (ensure confidentiality is maintained).

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your solutions (e.g., "reduced diagnostic time by 20%").

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to dive into the technical details of your work and answer in-depth questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical proficiency and an understanding of the