Controls Engineering Leader
Lead Control Systems Engineer
About the Opportunity
Our client is seeking a Lead Control Systems Engineer to play a key role in the development, integration, and optimization of advanced industrial automation systems. This individual will provide technical leadership on automation projects from initial concept and design through commissioning and ongoing support, while serving as a subject matter expert for control system architecture and implementation.
The ideal candidate will bring strong experience with PLC, HMI, SCADA, and industrial control systems, along with the ability to mentor junior engineers, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and drive technical decisions on complex projects. This position offers significant exposure to industrial modernization initiatives, process automation projects, and critical operational systems across multiple facilities.
This is an excellent opportunity for an engineer who enjoys a blend of hands-on technical work, customer interaction, project leadership, and system optimization. Travel is expected for commissioning, startup support, troubleshooting, and client engagement activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, development, and implementation of industrial automation and control system solutions.
- Define control strategies, system architectures, and integration approaches for new and existing processes.
- Program, configure, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, SCADA, and related control platforms.
- Oversee control system hardware selection, including instrumentation, sensors, actuators, networking equipment, and controllers.
- Review and develop technical documentation such as control narratives, I/O lists, functional specifications, wiring diagrams, and panel drawings.
- Support system commissioning, startup, testing, and field troubleshooting activities.
- Analyze system performance and implement improvements to enhance reliability, efficiency, and operational stability.
- Collaborate with electrical, software, process, and project engineering teams throughout project execution.
- Provide technical mentorship and guidance to engineers, technicians, and project stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with applicable industry standards, safety requirements, and project specifications.
- Serve as a technical resource for customers and internal teams throughout the project lifecycle.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
- 5+ years of experience designing and implementing industrial control systems.
- Strong background with PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS, and system integration projects.
- Experience with industrial communications networks and control system architecture.
- Working knowledge of programming tools and software such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, or similar platforms.
- Demonstrated ability to lead projects and provide technical direction to project teams.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
Work Environment
- Hybrid combination of office, engineering, and industrial field environments.
- Approximately 30% travel for project support, commissioning, startup, and customer-facing activities.
- Exposure to manufacturing, industrial processing, and infrastructure facilities.
- Opportunity to work on complex automation projects with long-term technical growth potential.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Annual performance incentives
- Comprehensive health benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Career advancement opportunities within a growing engineering organization
This position is ideal for a controls professional looking to step into a technical leadership role while remaining actively involved in the design, integration, and commissioning of sophisticated industrial automation systems.
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