Lead Electrical Controls Engineer

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc.; Smyrna (TN); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Liberty Personnel Services, Inc. is seeking a Lead Controls Engineer in Smyrna, Tennessee. This role involves designing electrical schematics, programming PLC and HMI systems, and leading projects in a collaborative automation environment. Candidates should have strong experience with various PLC platforms and HMI development. The company offers competitive compensation and opportunities for long-term career growth in a technically advanced setting.

Qualifications

• Strong experience with PLC programming platforms like Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar.
• Hands-on HMI development experience with Rockwell, Siemens, Pro-face, etc.
• Proven ability to read and create electrical and pneumatic schematics.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical and pneumatic schematics using AutoCAD Electrical.
• Program and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and motion control systems.
• Test, debug, and commission automation systems at customer facilities.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Electrical schematics

Troubleshooting

Project management

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

Mitsubishi

Rockwell

Job description

A growing industrial automation and custom machinery manufacturer is seeking a Lead Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, integration, and commissioning of advanced automated equipment and control systems. This position will play a key role in leading controls-related projects while supporting the successful execution of custom machinery solutions for a diverse client base across multiple industries.

The ideal candidate will bring strong PLC/HMI programming experience, a hands-on approach to machine integration, and the ability to lead projects from concept through installation and startup. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced controls professional looking to work in a collaborative and technically advanced automation environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical and pneumatic schematics, control system layouts, and Bills of Material using AutoCAD Electrical
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, robotics, and motion control systems for custom automated machinery
• Develop structured and well-documented control system software in accordance with customer specifications and internal standards
• Test, debug, and commission machinery and automation systems both in-house and at customer facilities
• Support machine installation, startup, troubleshooting, and ongoing customer support activities
• Ensure all project documentation, drawings, and software revisions are properly updated and maintained
• Assist in developing machine operation manuals and controls documentation
• Participate in design reviews, project planning, and technical discussions with customers and internal teams
• Support sales and applications engineering by reviewing specifications, recommending solutions, and assisting with project quotations and cost estimates
• Provide leadership and technical guidance to junior engineering staff and support cross-functional project teams
• Travel as required for machine installations, customer meetings, and project support

Required Qualifications

• Strong experience with PLC programming platforms including Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, GE, or similar systems
• Hands-on HMI development experience using Rockwell, Siemens, Pro-face, C-more, or related platforms
• Experience with industrial automation systems, machine controls, and custom machinery integration
• Ability to read and create electrical and pneumatic schematics
• Strong troubleshooting and machine startup experience
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Willingness to travel for customer support and system commissioning

Preferred Experience

• Experience with Cognex or Keyence vision inspection and vision-guided motion systems
• Robotics integration experience with Fanuc, ABB, Yaskawa/Motoman, Kuka, Epson, Denso, Nachi, or similar platforms
• Experience supporting automated manufacturing systems in industries such as automotive, plastics, consumer products, packaging, or industrial manufacturing
• Prior experience leading controls engineering projects or mentoring junior engineers

Company Overview

This established automation and systems integration company specializes in the design and manufacturing of custom industrial machinery and automated production systems. The organization partners closely with customers to develop innovative solutions that improve productivity, efficiency, and operational performance across a wide range of industries.

The company offers a collaborative team environment, long-term career growth opportunities, and exposure to cutting-edge automation technologies. Competitive compensation is offered based on experience and technical expertise.