Senior Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Senior Controls Engineer

 

Summary

Lead the design, programming, and commissioning of advanced automation systems and custom machinery. You’ll take technical ownership of projects from concept through customer acceptance, working with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative, high-precision equipment.

This is an opportunity to apply your expertise in PLCs, robotics, motion control, and machine integration while shaping controls architecture, solving complex technical challenges, and mentoring fellow engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls engineering from concept and design through programming, integration, validation, and onsite commissioning.

• Define controls architecture, technical standards, and best practices for complex automation projects.

• Design, program, integrate, and troubleshoot PLCs, motion control, robotics, vision systems, and HMI/SCADA platforms.

• Develop solutions using Rockwell Automation technologies and industrial robotics.

• Collaborate with mechanical engineering, project management, and manufacturing teams to deliver integrated systems.

• Serve as a key technical contact for customers on controls-related matters.

• Lead root-cause analysis, resolve complex system issues, and proactively manage technical risks.

• Support project estimating, concept development, and system architecture.

• Mentor junior engineers and drive continuous improvement in controls standards, software quality, and documentation.

• Stay current with emerging automation technologies and identify opportunities to improve system performance.

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of controls engineering experience in industrial automation or custom machinery.

• Proven ability to independently lead the technical aspects of complex projects.

• Strong PLC programming and system integration expertise, including Rockwell Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View .

• Experience with industrial robotics, preferably FANUC, and automated assembly systems.

• Solid knowledge of motion control, machine integration, and troubleshooting.

• Proficiency in 2D electrical CAD, preferably AutoCAD Electrical.

• Strong problem-solving, communication, and customer-facing skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects, maintain high quality standards, and handle confidential information.

• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel as required.

• Legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience.

• Advanced experience with Rockwell platforms, including ControlLogix, GuardLogix, and FactoryTalk View.

• Experience with FANUC, ABB, or Yaskawa MOTOMAN robotics.

• Familiarity with robotic simulation tools such as RoboGuide, RobotStudio, MotoSim, or Process Simulate.

• Knowledge of Siemens or Omron automation platforms.

• Experience with Python, VBA, or other scripting tools.

• Familiarity with AI-assisted engineering tools, including ChatGPT, Claude, or local LLMs.

• Experience establishing controls standards, improving engineering processes, or mentoring technical teams.