Senior Controls Engineer

Join a Growing Industrial Manufacturing Leader Our client is a leading manufacturer of industrial minerals that serve a wide range of industries, including plastics, construction materials, and other industrial applications. We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to own and lead all plant automation and control systems. This is a high-impact role for an experienced engineer who enjoys solving complex automation challenges, driving reliability improvements, and serving as the primary controls expert for an entire manufacturing facility. Position Summary The Senior Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, troubleshooting, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the plant's electrical and automation systems. This individual will own the facility's PLC, HMI, drives, instrumentation, and industrial networking infrastructure while supporting production, maintenance, and capital improvement initiatives. This position requires a hands‑on engineer who can independently diagnose and resolve complex controls issues while providing technical leadership across the plant. Participation in an on‑call rotation is required to support critical production needs outside of normal business hours. Key Responsibilities Own all plant automation, controls, and PLC systems. Design, program, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC and HMI applications. Support and maintain Rockwell/Allen-Bradley control systems using Studio 5000. Troubleshoot Siemens PLC systems as needed. Diagnose and resolve issues involving electrical controls, VFDs, instrumentation, motors, and industrial communication networks. Lead automation upgrades and continuous improvement projects that improve equipment reliability, efficiency, and uptime. Support new equipment installations, commissioning, and process improvements. Partner with maintenance, operations, and engineering to minimize downtime and improve plant performance. Maintain controls documentation, software backups, and system standards. Serve as the plant's primary technical resource for automation and controls. Participate in an on‑call rotation and respond to critical equipment or production issues when necessary. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical discipline preferred. 7+ years of controls engineering experience in a manufacturing or industrial processing environment. Strong hands‑on PLC programming experience with Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley Studio 5000. Experience with Siemens PLCs is preferred. Knowledge of HMI systems, industrial networking, process controls, and instrumentation. Experience troubleshooting electrical control systems, drives, and automation equipment. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem‑solving skills. Ability to work independently while leading plant‑wide automation initiatives. Willingness to provide after‑hours and on‑call support as required. Why This Opportunity? Own the complete controls and automation strategy for an entire manufacturing facility. Work with advanced industrial automation technologies in a highly automated production environment. Play a critical role in improving plant reliability, efficiency, and operational performance. Competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and long‑term career growth. #J-18808-Ljbffr FirstFour Staffing