Lead PLC Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation

Xpertis Talent; Clearwater (FL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Xpertis Talent is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer to lead development and implementation of control systems for automated equipment in a hands-on, high-impact role across engineering, production, and service teams.

You will design, program, test, and support PLC-based systems from concept through commissioning, with a focus on reliability, safety, and process optimization in a dynamic manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Programming, Industrial Automation, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in PLC and HMI programming for automated machinery.
• Expertise with Allen Bradley platforms (Studio 5000, Connected Components Workbench, FactoryTalk) and Schneider Electric tools (EcoStruxure Machine Expert, Vijeo Designer, Zelio Soft).
• Proficiency in programming PLCs using Structured Text, Ladder Logic, and Function Block Diagrams.
• Solid understanding of control system hardware including VFDs, relays, sensors, pneumatics, and analog I/O.
• Strong ability to diagnose and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, P&IDs, and electrical diagrams.
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and knowledge of UL, NEC, and NFPA standards.
• Familiarity with Ethernet/IP and Modbus communication protocols.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 5%) for field support.

Responsibilities

• Designing, programming, and testing PLCs and HMIs for custom automation equipment.
• Managing projects from initial design through testing and customer acceptance.
• Debugging code, troubleshooting issues, and supporting final system commissioning.
• Documenting software changes and system sequences of operation.
• Collaborating with engineering, shop, and service teams to ensure successful integration and support.
• Providing remote technical support to field technicians for deployed machines.
• Participating in design reviews and continuous improvement of control standards.
• Supporting pre-sales activities with Sales Engineers by reviewing customer requirements.
• Leading the development of system documentation, S.O.P.s, and commissioning protocols.
• Ensuring compliance with company safety procedures and quality standards.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI programming

Structured Text

Ladder Logic

Function Block Diagrams

VFDs/Relays/Sensors

schematics/P&IDs

Ethernet/IP Modbus

troubleshooting

field support travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/related field

Tools

Studio 5000

Connected Components Workbench

FactoryTalk

EcoStruxure Machine Expert

Vijeo Designer

Zelio Soft

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

Xpertis Talent is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer to lead development and implementation of control systems for automated equipment in a hands-on, high-impact role across engineering, production, and service teams.

You will design, program, test, and support PLC-based systems from concept through commissioning, with a focus on reliability, safety, and process optimization in a dynamic manufacturing environment.