Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Lead Electrical Controls EngineerWe are seeking an experienced Lead Electrical Controls Engineer to provide technical leadership in the design, programming, integration, commissioning, and support of advanced automation, robotic, and machine vision systems for manufacturing and process environments.This is a hands-on leadership role for an engineer who can take ownership of complex automation projects while providing technical direction and mentorship to other engineers and technicians. You will be involved throughout the entire project lifecycle—from concept and electrical design through programming, system integration, commissioning, and ongoing customer support.The ideal candidate is both a strong controls engineer and a technical leader who can solve complex problems, make sound engineering decisions, communicate effectively with customers and project teams, and ensure automation systems are delivered safely and reliably.Technical Leadership & Project OwnershipLead the controls engineering effort for automation, robotics, and machine vision projects.Provide technical guidance and mentorship to controls engineers, technicians, and other project team members.Review controls designs, programming, electrical documentation, and system architecture for quality and functionality.Partner with mechanical, electrical, software, and project engineering teams to develop integrated automation solutions.Participate in project planning, design reviews, technical meetings, system runoffs, installation, and commissioning.Interface directly with customers to define technical requirements, resolve issues, and communicate project status.Help establish and maintain controls engineering standards, programming practices, and documentation procedures.Controls Engineering & AutomationDesign, program, integrate, and troubleshoot complex electromechanical control systems.Develop and debug PLC, HMI, servo, robotic, and machine vision applications.Lead the integration of vision systems including Keyence, Cognex, and FANUC IRVision.Develop control architectures, sequence logic, motion control, safety systems, and industrial communication networks.Provide oversight and technical guidance for electrical panel design, wiring, controls hardware, and system integration.Perform in-house testing and system runoffs to verify functionality before field deployment.Review and troubleshoot electrical schematics, control logic, and system documentation.Support modifications and continuous improvements throughout the project lifecycle.Installation, Commissioning & Customer SupportLead or support installation and commissioning activities at customer facilities.Troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, robots, vision systems, motion systems, and industrial networks.Perform hands-on field modifications and system debugging when required.Ensure completed systems meet safety, quality, performance, and customer requirements.Provide post-installation technical support and assist with long-term system reliability improvements.QualificationsEducation & ExperienceBachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.5+ years of hands-on experience in controls engineering, automation integration, industrial robotics, or a related field.Demonstrated experience taking ownership of automation projects and providing technical leadership.Strong experience with one or more major PLC/HMI platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Omron, or GE.Experience with machine vision systems; Keyence, Cognex, and FANUC IRVision preferred.Technical SkillsStrong PLC, HMI, motion control, VFD, and servo experience.Robotic programming and automation integration experience.Machine vision integration and troubleshooting.Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics and control documentation.Experience with AutoCAD Electrical preferred.Knowledge of industrial networks including EtherNet/IP, Profinet, and similar protocols.Understanding of machine safety circuits and industrial safety standards.Strong troubleshooting, diagnostic, and root-cause analysis skills.Ability to work hands-on with electrical and automation equipment.Leadership & Professional AttributesProven ability to lead technical projects and influence engineering decisions.Strong mentoring and team-development skills.Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Comfortable working directly with customers and cross-functional teams.Self-motivated and capable of managing multiple projects and priorities.Willingness to travel approximately 30% for installation and commissioning.Ability to lift 50+ lbs, pass required background checks, and maintain a valid U.S. driver's license.What We OfferCompetitive salary of $70,000–$120,000, based on experience.Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.401(k) with employer matching.Paid time off.Supportive, growth-oriented work environment.Opportunity to provide technical leadership on advanced automation projects.Exposure to cutting-edge robotics, machine vision, motion control, and industrial automation technologies.Opportunity to make a significant impact on the design, integration, and performance of next-generation manufacturing systems.