Controls Engineering Manager

Controls Engineering ManagerCKC Automation transforms manufacturing processes through innovative automation solutions. Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Benicia, CA, we serve diverse industries across the Bay Area and West Coast — including automotive, medical device, pharmaceutical, energy, and semiconductor — combining deep technical expertise with creative problem-solving to tackle complex manufacturing challenges. We design and build custom automation solutions that improve efficiency, enhance quality, and drive innovation.Our offerings include:Machine — Robotic workcells, build-to-print solutions, prototype equipment, and fixturesPanel — High-volume panel assembly from our UL 508A-certified panel shopControls / Data — PLC, HMI, and robotic integration for optimized production. Real-time monitoring, analytics, and SCADA/data infrastructureWe're hiring a hands-on Controls Engineering Manager who can lead a team and still dive into the work.You'll be responsible for delivering automation projects end-to-end—from concept through commissioning—while building and leading a team of strong engineers. This is not a passive management role. You'll stay close to the work, make critical technical decisions, and step in when it matters.You'll work side-by-side, in person, with engineering, project management, and sales to scope solutions, solve real problems, and deliver results for customers. We're looking for someone who moves fast, owns outcomes, and raises the bar for both technical execution and team performance.If you thrive in environments where expectations are high and results matter, you'll fit right in.Leadership & Team DevelopmentLead, coach, and develop a team of Controls Engineers in a high-performance, accountable environmentProvide technical mentorship and career development across all experience levelsAllocate resources across projects based on skills, capacity, and prioritiesEstablish and enforce engineering standards, best practices, and continuous improvementConduct performance evaluations, feedback, and development planningProject & Technical LeadershipOversee execution of multiple automation projects (PLC, SCADA, HMI) from concept through commissioningProvide technical direction across system architecture, programming, testing, and startupReview and approve control system designs, PLC code, and automation architecturesLead key customer and internal technical discussions and project reviewsResolve complex technical and project challengesOperational ExecutionDrive on-time, on-budget, high-quality project deliveryManage resource planning, forecasting, utilization, and project marginsOversee billing, hours tracking, and financial performance of projectsEnsure strong communication across engineering teams, project managers, and customersMaintain ~50% billable utilization while leading the teamSales & Business SupportPartner with Sales on project estimates, proposals, and scope developmentSupport pre-sales engineering and solution designIdentify growth opportunities, technology trends, and capability gapsBuild and maintain strong customer relationships, including re-engagement effortsTechnical Expertise & InnovationLead development using PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, VFDs, motion control, and industrial networksStay current on automation technologies, Industry 4.0 trends, and data integrationDrive adoption of new tools, standards, and engineering methodologiesQualificationsBachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field10+ years in industrial automation / controls engineering3+ years in a leadership or management role (Controls Manager, Lead Engineer, Engineering Supervisor)Proven success delivering complex automation projects (design commissioning)Technical SkillsPLC Programming (Allen-Bradley / Rockwell, Siemens, etc.)HMI Development (FactoryTalk, WinCC, Ignition, etc.)SCADA Systems & Industrial Data SystemsVFDs, Motion Control, Servo SystemsControl Panel Design & Electrical SystemsIndustrial Networking: EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNetSystem Integration, Commissioning, TroubleshootingLeadership SkillsTeam leadership, coaching, and performance managementStrong decision-making and problem-solving abilityAbility to manage multiple projects in fast-paced environmentsExcellent communication and stakeholder management skillsAdditional RequirementsWillingness to travel to customer sites for installation and commissioningFlexibility to support off-hours or startup activities as neededBenefits:401(k)401(k) matchingHealth insuranceDental insuranceVision insuranceEmployee assistance programFlexible spending accountLife insurancePaid time offPaid holidaysBase Salary: $145,000 – $170,000Target Bonus: $15,000 – $25,000Total Target Compensation: $160,000 – $190,000