Senior Controls Engineer in United

Job Description

Senior Controls Engineer

Primary Focus

Design, programming, and commissioning of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and automation control systems for material handling and industrial clients, with end-to-end ownership from proposal through commissioning and post-installation support.

Role Purpose

This is a hands-on senior control engineering role at the intersection of material handling automation, conveyor systems, and industrial controls. The Senior Controls Engineer designs, programs, and commissions automation and control systems for clients in distribution, manufacturing, and logistics environments, working directly with clients from proposal through commissioning and taking real ownership of project outcomes.

Core Accountabilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC and HMI systems for material handling, conveyor, and industrial automation applications.
• Develop and review technical design documentation, electrical schematics, and control panel layouts using AutoCAD.
• Design and commission custom SCADA systems tailored to client operational requirements.
• Program, troubleshoot, and commission variable frequency drives (VFDs) in conveyor and motion control applications.
• Specify and design instrumentation and control systems, staying current with evolving technologies and industry standards.
• Design and build systems from the ground up for turnkey material handling solutions.
• Travel to client sites for installation, commissioning, and technical support as required.
• Manage project cost and schedule, delegate tasks effectively, and oversee performance to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery.
• Determine optimal automation solutions to meet customer requirements and provide detailed costing to the project management team.
• Lead or assist in proposal for key project opportunities.
• Serve as a trusted technical resource for clients through design, commissioning, and post-installation support.
• Understand customer operational requirements and translate them into practical, effective automation solutions.
• Provide ongoing technical support to clients post-installation, including troubleshooting and optimization.
• Support business development through technical engagement and identification of new project opportunities.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related discipline (or equivalent practical experience).
• 7+ years of hands-on experience as a Controls Engineer, with significant experience in a material handling, conveyor, or industrial automation environment.
• Minimum 3 years of hands-on PLC programming and troubleshooting experience (Allen-Bradley / Rockwell, Siemens, or equivalent).
• Minimum 4 years of experience with AutoCAD for electrical schematics and panel layout design.
• Demonstrated experience designing and commissioning conveyor control systems, including belt, roller, sortation, or accumulation conveyor applications.
• Knowledge of reading and building electrical drawings and schematics.
• Willingness and ability to travel to client sites as required.
• Experience with safety PLCs, safety relays, light curtains, and machine guarding systems in conveyor or material handling environments.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• 401K company match program
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• A supportive, team-driven work environment
• The chance to help shape the future workforce of a growing, community-minded company