Controls Engineer

UpScale Automation Inc.; Windsor; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Upscale Automation, a Windsor-based controls engineering firm, seeks a seasoned controls engineer to own automation projects end-to-end: PLC programming, HMI development, robot integration, machine startup and on-site commissioning.

With 5–7+ years of hands-on experience, you will lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and work across automotive and general manufacturing clients. This is a senior role with ownership in a growing, tight-knit team.

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of progressive experience in PLC programming and industrial controls engineering.
• Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or equivalent.
• Proven proficiency in HMI development, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Strong working knowledge of industrial automation hardware, control panel design, and safety systems (CSA, NFPA 79, UL508A).
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting on complex machines.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, modification, and troubleshooting of PLC programs for complex industrial automation systems, independently managing multi‑axis and multi‑zone control architectures.
• Design, develop, and optimize HMI applications including operator interfaces, alarm management, and production data visualization.
• Manage robot integration and automation cell coordination, including programming and interfacing with peripheral devices and vision systems.
• Lead machine startup, I/O checkout, system debugging, and ongoing production support with minimal supervision.
• Interpret and redline electrical drawings, controls hardware schematics, and field device documentation throughout project execution.
• Drive controls upgrades, retrofit projects, and machine modernization initiatives from technical assessment to final handover.
• Serve as the primary technical resource during commissioning, coordinating with technicians, engineers, and customers on‑site and remotely.
• Mentor junior engineers and controls technicians, providing guidance on best practices, standards, and troubleshooting methodologies.

Skills

PLC programming

Leadership

Documentation

Problem-solving

Education

Electrical Engineering / Mechatronics degree

Tools

Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell

Siemens / TIA Portal

Omron / Sysmac / Mitsubishi GX Works

HMI platforms (FactoryTalk View, Ignition)

Robotics and vision systems

Job description

About Upscale Automation

Upscale Automation is a Windsor-based machine builder and controls engineering firm serving clients across the automotive and general manufacturing sectors. We're a small but growing team that delivers end-to-end automation solutions — from mechanical machine builds through controls design, PLC programming, and on-site commissioning and production support. Our work spans a wide range of machine types and industries, which means every project brings something new.

Position Overview

We are looking for a controls engineer who has been around the block — someone who has led projects, not just supported them. With 5–7+ years of hands‑on experience, you'll own automation work end‑to‑end: PLC programming, HMI development, robot integration, machine startup, and on‑site commissioning. If you thrive in industrial environments, make decisions independently, and take pride in getting machines running right, this role is built for you.

Why Upscale Automation

Varied & Challenging Work

No two projects are the same. You'll work across automotive and general manufacturing clients — keeping the work interesting and your skills sharp.

Senior‑Level Ownership

This isn't a support role. You'll lead projects end‑to‑end with the autonomy to make real technical decisions.

Competitive Compensation

Salary commensurate with experience. Contract and full‑time structures available depending on your preference.

Be Part of the Growth

Join a small but growing team where your contributions are visible, your voice matters, and there's real room to grow with the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development, modification, and troubleshooting of PLC programs for complex industrial automation systems, independently managing multi‑axis and multi‑zone control architectures.
• Design, develop, and optimize HMI applications including operator interfaces, alarm management, and production data visualization.
• Manage robot integration and automation cell coordination, including programming and interfacing with peripheral devices and vision systems.
• Lead machine startup, I/O checkout, system debugging, and ongoing production support with minimal supervision.
• Interpret and redline electrical drawings, controls hardware schematics, and field device documentation throughout project execution.
• Drive controls upgrades, retrofit projects, and machine modernization initiatives from technical assessment to final handover.
• Serve as the primary technical resource during commissioning, coordinating with technicians, engineers, and customers on‑site and remotely.
• Mentor junior engineers and controls technicians, providing guidance on best practices, standards, and troubleshooting methodologies.

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of progressive experience in PLC programming and industrial controls engineering.
• Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline.
• Proven proficiency in HMI development, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
• Deep understanding of industrial automation hardware, control panel design, and safety systems (e.g., safety PLCs, light curtains, E‑stop circuits).
• Demonstrated ability to independently lead startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting on complex machines — not just support them.
• Strong working knowledge of electrical standards applicable to industrial equipment (CSA, NFPA 79, UL508A).
• Excellent communication, documentation, and problem‑solving skills in fast‑paced project environments.
• Valid driver's license and comfortable with field travel up to 25–30% of the time depending on project phase.

Preferred Skills

• Allen-Bradley / RockwellSiemens TIA PortalOmron SysmacMitsubishi GX WorksFactoryTalk ViewIgnition SCADAFanuc / KUKA RoboticsMachine Vision SystemsServo / Motion ControlVFD / Drive ConfigurationAutoCAD ElectricalProfibus / EtherNet/IPOPC-UA / MQTTMachine Builder Experience