Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Location: Decatur, AL Travel: ~30% (primarily in 1–2 week increments) Industry: Industrial Automation / Custom Machine Building

Overview

A growing industrial automation company is seeking an experienced Automation Controls Engineer to support the design, development, and commissioning of custom automated systems. This is a hands-on, full lifecycle role where you will take ownership of projects from concept through installation and startup.

This position offers the opportunity to work on complex automation projects involving robotics, conveyor systems, and custom equipment while serving as a key technical interface with customers.

What You'll Do

• Design electrical control systems using AutoCAD Electrical, including power distribution, safety circuits, I/O, communications, and panel layouts
• Perform panel calculations including SCCR, FLA, and overall power requirements
• Develop PLC, HMI, and robot programs from scratch for custom automation systems
• Configure, debug, and test equipment on the shop floor prior to customer acceptance
• Lead customer runoffs and demonstrate system performance
• Oversee electrical installation and lead on-site system startup at customer facilities
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during build and commissioning phases
• Serve as the primary customer-facing technical lead during project execution
• Manage project scope, timelines, and budgets to ensure successful delivery

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent hands-on experience (2+ years)
• 2+ years of controls engineering experience in a machine building or OEM environment preferred
• Strong understanding of industrial automation systems, controls, and robotics

Technical Skills

• PLC programming (Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, Siemens TIA Portal, or similar)
• Robot programming experience (Fanuc strongly preferred)
• HMI development (Allen-Bradley, GE, or similar platforms)
• Experience with machine vision systems (Cognex and/or Fanuc iRVision preferred)
• Industrial networking: Ethernet/IP, ProfiNet, Profibus, DeviceNet
• Ability to design and troubleshoot complete control systems

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to travel up to 30% for installations and commissioning
• Strong communication skills and ability to work directly with customers
• Ability to independently lead projects and drive results
• Knowledge of applicable safety standards (RIA, OSHA, NFPA 79)

Why This Opportunity

• High-impact role with full project ownership
• Exposure to advanced automation and robotics technologies
• Stable pipeline of custom engineering projects
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package
• Long-term growth potential within a growing organization