Lead Automation Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Automation Controls Engineer III
Location: Tempe AZ
Travel: 25%–50% (Domestic and International) Summary/Objective:
Are you passionate about complex automation challenges and leading innovative projects? We are seeking an experienced Automation Controls Engineer III to join our growing team. In this advanced role, you will lead the planning, design, programming, and implementation of PLC/HMI and/or PC-based control systems, as well as collaborate on customized solutions for a variety of industries.
You will balance customer needs, technical execution, and project budgets/schedules, while serving as a technical expert and strong communicator within multidisciplinary teams. Your creativity, leadership, and hands-on expertise will directly shape the success of our automation systems. Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop cutting-edge control systems based on customer requirements and engineering principles.
• Interpret client needs, address technical challenges, and deliver solutions on budget and schedule.
• Program PLCs (Rockwell, Siemens), HMIs, and PC (.Net) applications from start to finish.
• Develop and test comprehensive software solutions for robotics, vision systems, and machine automation.
• Lead or participate in system commissioning, troubleshooting, and support both onsite and at customer facilities.
• Oversee project workflow, set and communicate expectations, and ensure timely, high-quality delivery.
• Collaborate closely with management, clients, and cross-functional teams for seamless project execution.
• Support and mentor junior engineers, help onboard new staff, and contribute to continuous improvement of engineering practices and documentation.
• Stay current with new technologies and industry best practices, introducing innovative solutions to our systems.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• BS in an applicable engineering field or equivalent demonstrated experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in industrial automation design and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in PLC/HMI/PC programming and troubleshooting (Rockwell and/or Siemens required).
• Competency with servo/AC motion control, pneumatic design, industrial robots (Fanuc, UR, ABB), and machine vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence).
• Experience integrating and commissioning safety and industrial communication systems; familiarity with UL, NFPA, and CE standards.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD for design/drafting and MS Office Suite.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; capable of leading meetings and representing engineering concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong problem-solver who can manage multiple projects concurrently with minimal supervision.
• Willing and able to travel (25%-50%), including some international assignments.
• Leadership potential with the ability to contribute to recruitment and training of new team members.
• Customer-focused, collaborative, self-motivated, and committed to continuous self-improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to drive impactful projects and shape next-generation automation solutions.
• Diverse and challenging work with a talented, supportive team.
• Growth opportunities in both technical and project leadership tracks.
• Competitive compensation, benefits, and travel opportunities.

Ready to advance your automation engineering career? Apply today by submitting your resume and a brief cover letter highlighting your most relevant projects and contributions.

As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Please note: The following benefits reflect Kelly's general offerings. Eligibility may vary by assignment, location, and job type. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

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