Chief Automation Engineer

Hoffman Mechanical Solutions, Inc.; Raleigh (NC); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Hoffman Mechanical Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Chief Automation Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and optimization of complex automation across multi-system and plant environments.

This senior role provides strategic oversight, acting as the primary technical authority for project stakeholders. The candidate will establish engineering standards, mentor junior staff, and bridge execution with organizational strategy, driving high-impact initiatives that ensure safety, reliability, and

Qualifications

• 15-20+ years of experience in industrial automation and control systems.
• Leadership on large-scale projects.
• Experience with multiple automation platforms and field commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Own enterprise-wide engineering standards and reference designs.
• Develop and deliver regular technical training for the engineering team.
• Collaborate with sales and management to support client proposals.
• Own project scope, schedule, and financials.
• Ensure safety, quality, and compliance of deliverables.

Skills

HVAC systems

BAS integration

HMI/SCADA

PLC/DDC programming

Networking/OT

Testing/commissioning

Leadership

Stakeholder mgmt

Problem solving

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s/Associate degree in engineering

Trade school certificates

PE License preferred

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Rockwell Automation

Ignition

Wonderware

Modbus

Job description

A Chief Automation Engineer is a senior technical expert responsible for leading the design, implementation, and optimization of complex automation solutions across multi-system and plant-level environments. This role provides strategic oversight and technical authority, serving as the primary point of contact for project stakeholders and the final escalation point for complex technical issues. A Principal Automation Engineer establishes and governs organizational engineering standards, mentors junior staff, and bridges the gap between engineering execution and high-level organizational strategy .

Education

• Previous experience as an HBT Principal Automation Engineer or Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or Associate degree in any of the following fields: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Trade school certificates or equivalent technical training combined with relevant experience may also be considered.
• Professional Engineering (PE) License is preferred.

Experience

• 15-20+ years of experience in industrial automation, instrumentation and controls, PLC/DDC programming, and control system architecture.
• Demonstrated leadership experience on multiple large scale projects.
• Broad exposure to multiple automation platforms, building automation projects, multi-system integration, industrial networking architecture, and field commissioning.

Skills

Technical Skills:

• Systems Knowledge: SME level expertise in HVAC systems, Building Automation Systems (BAS), and the integration of building controls within plant-level environments.
• Control System Design: Demonstrates mastery of all competencies required of a Principal Automation Engineer, with the ability to review and approve control system designs, system architecture, and project scope to ensure alignment with technical and operational requirements.
• HMI/SCADA: Possesses advanced expertise in HMI and SCADA systems (e.g. Rockwell, Ignition, Wonderware). Capable of reviewing and approving project scope for system architecture, graphics standards, and operational functionality.
• PLC/DDC: Demonstrates mastery of PLC/DDC programming, including programming standards, platforms (e.g. Allen Bradley, Siemens), system integration, troubleshooting, and project execution. Responsible for reviewing and approving technical scope and deliverables.
• Networking & Infrastructure: SME level understanding of various industrial protocols (e.g. Modbus, BACnet, Ethernet/IP) and OT network design.
• Testing: Demonstrates advanced expertise in testing, startup, commissioning, and validation activities required of a Principal Automation Engineer. Responsible for reviewing and approving testing strategies, acceptance criteria, and project scope to ensure quality and performance objectives are achieved.

Soft Skills:

• Problem Solving: Track record of solving complex technical problems and clearly explaining methodologies.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align engineering execution with long‑term organizational goals and industry trends.
• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication skills for managing client expectations and cross‑functional coordination.
• Leadership: Proven ability to train and mentor junior engineers and drive team collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Technical Acumen: Ability to perform the tasks of all lower Automation Engineer levels. Own enterprise-wide engineering standards, reference designs, and reusable code libraries. Develop and deliver regular technical training for the engineering team on new technologies and best practices.
• Business Acumen: Collaborate with sales and management to support client presentations and proposals.
• Project Controls: Full ownership of project scope, schedule, and financials.
• Safety & Compliance: Follow all office and site safety procedures and participate in mandatory safety training (e.g., OSHA‑10).
• Quality Control: Ensure all document and code deliverables meet established quality standards. Perform periodic quality reviews of PLC programs, system architectures, and approve engineering submittals.