Lead Automation Controls Engineer

Gables Search Group; Columbus (MS); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Gables Search Group in Columbus, MS is seeking a Lead Automation Controls Engineer to guide controls projects and solve complex equipment issues at a growing manufacturing operation. This is a hands-on role with responsibility for project delivery and technical mentoring.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree in engineering, 7+ years in manufacturing automation, and strong Siemens PLC/TIA Portal skills. Travel is minimal, relocation assistance is available.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field.
• 7+ years of experience in manufacturing automation.
• Strong Siemens PLC programming and troubleshooting with hands-on TIA Portal.
• Experience designing and modifying electrical controls and interpreting schematics.
• Proven track record leading equipment projects and mentoring others.

Responsibilities

• Lead electrical controls and PLC automation projects from planning through commissioning.
• Improve production equipment reliability, uptime, efficiency, and safety.
• Troubleshoot complex controls issues and mentor engineers and technical staff.
• Manage suppliers, schedules, equipment installations, and competing project priorities.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, engineering, IT, and plant leadership on improvements.

Skills

Siemens PLC programming

TIA Portal

Electrical controls design

Schematic interpretation

Project leadership

Mentoring/team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

FANUC robotics

Cognex vision

AutoCAD

Profibus

ProfiSafe

ASI-Bus

Job description

We’re recruiting for a Lead Automation Controls Engineer to guide controls projects and solve complex equipment issues at a growing manufacturing operation in Columbus. This is a hands‑on role with responsibility for project delivery and technical mentoring.

Relocation assistance available

What You’ll Do

• Lead electrical controls and PLC automation projects from equipment planning through commissioning.
• Improve production equipment reliability, uptime, efficiency, and safety.
• Troubleshoot difficult controls issues and mentor engineers and technical team members.
• Manage suppliers, schedules, equipment installations, and competing project priorities.
• Partner with production, maintenance, engineering, IT, and plant leadership on improvements.

What You’ll Bring

• A bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical field.
• An established background in manufacturing automation, with approximately seven years or more of relevant experience.
• Strong Siemens PLC programming and troubleshooting skills, including hands‑on TIA Portal experience.
• Experience designing and modifying electrical controls, interpreting electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics, and conducting safety or risk assessments.
• A record of leading equipment projects, coordinating suppliers, and mentoring others.

Experience with FANUC robotics, Cognex vision, Profibus, ProfiSafe, ASI-Bus, AutoCAD, or capital projects is helpful. Travel is minimal. Candidates with H-1B or TN status may be considered.