Lead Controls Engineer

Lead Controls Engineer

Victor, NY Full-Time On-Site $90,000 - $160,000 /yr

Position Summary

The Controls Engineer III is responsible for the design, development, programming, commissioning, and support of automated manufacturing and industrial control systems. This role serves as a technical lead on complex automation projects and collaborates with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver custom equipment solutions that meet customer, safety, and operational requirements.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience in controls hardware design, PLC/HMI programming, industrial automation, and machine commissioning, with the ability to independently manage projects from concept through installation and startup.

Essential Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Technical Support

• Lead controls engineering activities on complex automation projects.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting quality, schedule, and budget expectations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers.
• Review engineering deliverables for technical accuracy, quality, and compliance.
• Support project planning, risk assessment, and technical decision-making.
• Collaborate with mechanical, manufacturing, and software engineering teams throughout project lifecycles.

Controls System Design

• Interpret customer specifications, project requirements, and applicable industry standards.
• Participate in design reviews to ensure equipment functionality, controls integration, and safety compliance.
• Develop and maintain electrical and controls documentation using CAD-based electrical design software.
• Design and document:
  • AC and DC power distribution systems
  • Safety circuits and machine safety systems
  • Servo and motion control systems
  • Industrial networking architectures
  • Device and instrumentation schematics
  • I/O systems
  • Control panel and enclosure layouts
  • Pneumatic and hydraulic control systems
  • Bills of material (BOMs)
• Create and maintain engineering standards, symbols, and design templates as needed.

Programming & Software Development

• Develop and modify PLC, HMI, and industrial control software.
• Configure and integrate field devices, instrumentation, and machine components.
• Develop custom control sequences and operating functions based on machine requirements.
• Create and troubleshoot communication interfaces between automation equipment and peripheral devices.
• Support implementation of industrial networking protocols and data exchange systems.
• Develop or modify custom software modules, device drivers, and machine interfaces when required.

Commissioning & Validation

• Commission and validate control systems prior to equipment release.
• Download, test, and optimize control programs.
• Troubleshoot hardware, software, networking, and electrical issues.
• Support factory testing and customer acceptance activities.
• Participate in equipment installation, startup, and commissioning activities at customer sites.
• Verify system performance, safety functionality, and operational requirements.
• Document modifications and update engineering records throughout project execution.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with panel builders, technicians, programmers, and project teams to resolve design and implementation issues.
• Provide technical support during equipment assembly, testing, and deployment.
• Assist with troubleshooting and continuous improvement efforts.

Benefits

Vacation/PTO

Medical

Dental

Vision

401k

Bonus

Relocation

Telecommute

For this position you must be currently authorized to work in the United States. We do not sponsor for this position.