Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc.; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc. is seeking a Lead Controls Engineer to support project execution in industrial automation and material handling. This position involves PLC programming, controls engineering, and hands-on field work during installation and commissioning activities.

Ideal candidates will have practical mechanical aptitude, experience collaborating with field teams, and strong documentation skills. The role entails approximately 50% travel with multi-week on-site rotations, ensuring versatile work in dynamic environments.

Qualifications

• Experience with industrial automation and material handling environments.
• Ability to work closely with millwrights and electricians.
• Self-motivated and capable of independent work in the field.

Responsibilities

• Support project execution within industrial automation.
• Assist with equipment installation and commissioning.
• Coordinate subcontractors and technical discussions.

Skills

PLC programming

Controls engineering

Mechanical aptitude

Strong documentation skills

Effective communication

Tools

ASi networks

ERP/MES platforms

Machine vision systems

Job description

Seeking a Lead Controls Engineer to support project execution within industrial automation and material handling environments. This role combines PLC programming and controls engineering with strong hands‑on field involvement during installation, startup, and commissioning activities.

The position requires a practical mechanical aptitude and the ability to work closely with millwrights, electricians, and installation teams in the field. Responsibilities may include assisting with equipment installation, cable routing, pneumatic systems, and overall commissioning support.

Additional exposure may include:

• Industrial paint and coating systems
• Robotic and reciprocator applications
• ASi and industrial communication networks
• ERP/MES integration
• Ignition and database platforms
• Conveyor systems, lifts, and material handling equipment
• Washer systems and thermal processing operations

This role also includes site leadership responsibilities such as coordinating subcontractors, leading technical discussions, supporting project decision‑making, and maintaining a professional on‑site presence. Engineers may also provide remote troubleshooting and customer support as needed.

The ideal candidate is self‑motivated, capable of working independently in field environments, and interested in incorporating emerging technologies such as machine vision and camera systems into automation solutions. Strong documentation skills and effective communication across trades and customer teams are essential.

Travel is approximately 50%, with project schedules commonly involving multi‑week on‑site rotations followed by time home between assignments.