Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

The Lead Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, implementation, and commissioning of industrial automation and control systems for manufacturing, process, and infrastructure projects. This position works closely with customers, project managers, electricians, technicians, and engineering teams to deliver complete automation solutions from concept through startup and ongoing support.

The ideal candidate possesses strong PLC/HMI programming skills, experience with industrial networks and control system design, and the ability to troubleshoot complex electrical and automation systems in both office and field environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop control systems for industrial automation projects.
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks.
• Develop electrical schematics, panel layouts, I/O lists, and control narratives.
• Perform system integration, testing, startup, and commissioning activities.
• Create and maintain technical documentation including functional specifications, operating manuals, and test procedures.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, technicians, and customers throughout the project lifecycle.
• Conduct factory acceptance testing (FAT) and site acceptance testing (SAT).
• Troubleshoot electrical, instrumentation, communication, and control system issues.
• Support equipment upgrades, modernization projects, and process improvements.
• Participate in project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and status reporting.
• Provide technical support during installation, startup, and post-project service activities.
• Ensure compliance with applicable safety standards, electrical codes, and customer specifications.
• Travel to customer facilities as required for commissioning, troubleshooting, and project support.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Experience with industrial automation and control systems.
• Proficiency programming PLC platforms such as:
• Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
• Siemens
• Schneider Electric
• GE or similar systems
• Experience developing HMI and SCADA applications.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, P&IDs, control schematics, and technical specifications.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, DeviceNet, or similar.
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in manufacturing, water/wastewater, food and beverage, automotive, life sciences, energy, or process industries.
• Familiarity with VFDs, servo systems, motion control, robotics, and machine safety systems.
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar design software.
• Knowledge of ISA, NFPA, UL, NEC, and OSHA standards.
• Previous field commissioning and customer-facing project experience.
• Project management experience and ability to lead technical project execution.

Work Environment

• Combination of office, manufacturing, and customer-site environments.
• Hands-on work with industrial equipment and control systems.
• Occasional to moderate travel for startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer support activities.
• Opportunity to work on a variety of automation projects across multiple industries.