Sr Controls Engineer

About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Controls/Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement automation control systems for industrial processes and warehouse distribution equipment. This role requires expertise in engineering principles, programming, and control system technologies, with a focus on maximizing the reliability and performance of conveyors, sortation systems, scanners, cameras, print-and-apply systems, and SCADA devices. The Senior Automation Engineer will ensure all work aligns with company policies and procedures, with safety as the highest priority.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Serve as site technical expert in automation control systems and lead the site’s automation engineering program.
• Set program goals, delegate work, and mentor Automation Engineers and Apprentices to meet client objectives and safety/technical requirements.
• Design, develop, implement, and optimize control systems and software; maintain and troubleshoot automation equipment, including PLC/PC controllers and industrial networks.
• Govern all automation documentation and change management processes for the site.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and support teams to optimize material handling systems and deliver projects.
• Provide advanced troubleshooting and escalation support, including remote assistance, root cause analysis, and vendor coordination.
• Monitor system performance, drive continuous improvement projects, and communicate technical issues, timelines, and workarounds to stakeholders.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, OR 3+ years equivalent professional experience.
• 5+ years of PLC-controlled automation experience, including Ladder Logic and structured programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Codesys) and issue diagnosis in production environments.
• 2+ years with robotics work cells, control systems, electrical theory, controls components, and automated equipment.
• Leadership experience in directing, training, and mentoring automation engineers.
• Proficiency in CMMS use, troubleshooting, and coordinating maintenance with multiple stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills, policy interpretation, and continuous improvement mindset.
• Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and build scalable automation solutions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in relevant field plus 5+ years professional experience.
• 5+ years in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and modification, as well as HMI and control networks, SCADA systems, and motor control systems (VFDs, DC drives, starters).
• Industrial electrical experience with 480V 3-phase, 110 VAC, 24VDC, and reading/modifying mechanical and electrical drawings.
• Proficiency in programming tools such as RSLogix5000 Studio, FT View, and other control software; controls design and systems integration experience.
• Field service engineering and technical training experience, including conveyors, sortation, ASRS, and industrial robotics.
• Proven ability in remote technical support and driving continuous improvement in automated systems.
• Experience with advanced automation control systems and programmatic solutions for equipment optimization.