Allen Bradley

Term from Electrical Engineering industry explained for recruiters

Allen Bradley (often called AB) is a major brand of industrial equipment and control systems owned by Rockwell Automation. When candidates list Allen Bradley on their resumes, they're typically referring to their experience with programmable controllers, electrical equipment, and automation systems that are widely used in factories and manufacturing plants. It's similar to how someone might mention their experience with Apple or Microsoft products - Allen Bradley is a leading brand that many companies use for their manufacturing operations. When hiring managers see "Allen Bradley experience," they're looking for someone who can work with these common industrial control systems.

Examples in Resumes

Programmed Allen Bradley PLCs for automated production line control

Maintained and troubleshot Allen-Bradley control systems in manufacturing environment

Led upgrade project replacing legacy equipment with new AB automation systems

Typical job title: "Control Systems Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Automation Engineer PLC Programmer Controls Engineer Electrical Engineer Manufacturing Engineer Industrial Controls Technician Systems Integrator

Where to Find Control Systems Engineers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a complex automation project you managed using Allen Bradley equipment?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience in leading projects, solving problems, and coordinating with different teams. They should mention specific types of systems and how they improved processes.

Q: How do you approach troubleshooting a factory-wide system failure involving Allen Bradley equipment?

Expected Answer: Strong candidates should explain a systematic approach to problem-solving, mention safety procedures, and discuss how they minimize production downtime.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What experience do you have with different Allen Bradley controller types?

Expected Answer: They should be able to discuss common controller models and their typical applications in manufacturing settings, showing hands-on experience.

Q: How do you ensure safety when working with Allen Bradley control systems?

Expected Answer: Look for understanding of safety protocols, lockout/tagout procedures, and awareness of how their work affects plant operations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic Allen Bradley equipment have you worked with?

Expected Answer: Entry-level candidates should be able to identify basic components and explain their function, even if their hands-on experience is limited.

Q: Can you explain what a PLC is and its basic function?

Expected Answer: They should be able to explain that a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is like a computer that controls machines in a factory, showing basic understanding of industrial automation.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of control systems
  • Reading electrical diagrams
  • Basic troubleshooting
  • Safety awareness

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Programming controllers
  • System maintenance
  • Equipment installation
  • Problem diagnosis

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • System design
  • Team leadership
  • Advanced troubleshooting

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with industrial equipment
  • Lack of safety awareness
  • No understanding of basic electrical concepts
  • No experience in manufacturing environments