Lead PLC Engineer

Divcon Controls; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation firm is seeking a Lead PLC Engineer based in Dallas, Texas. This senior technical leader will design, develop, and deliver PLC-based control systems for large-scale projects. The role involves programming, mentoring engineers, and ensuring high-quality execution. Candidates should have over 7 years of experience in PLC programming and industrial automation, with strong knowledge of Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley platforms. This position includes responsibilities for system integration and guiding technical efforts across multiple projects.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in PLC programming and industrial automation.
• Strong expertise with Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley (Studio 5000) platforms.
• Proven experience designing and implementing control systems for HVAC.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of PLC control systems.
• Define system architecture and control strategies.
• Mentor junior and mid-level PLC engineers.

Skills

PLC programming

Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley (Studio 5000)

HVAC systems

system integration

industrial communication protocols

problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering

Tools

Ignition SCADA

Kepware

Job description

The Lead PLC Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for the design, development, and delivery of PLC-based control systems across complex, large-scale projects.

This role combines deep hands‑on programming expertise with technical leadership, guiding engineering standards, mentoring team members, and ensuring high-quality, consistent execution across projects.

You will play a critical role in defining control strategies, standardizing PLC architecture, and ensuring seamless integration with SCADA and facility systems in high-performance environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and development of PLC control systems using platforms such as Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley (Studio 5000).
• Establish and maintain PLC programming standards, reusable code libraries, naming conventions, and best practices.
• Define system architecture including control strategies, I/O structures, network design, and redundancy approaches.
• Ensure consistency and quality across all PLC deliverables through design reviews and code validation.
• Own PLC scope across multiple projects, from design through commissioning and turnover.
• Develop and implement control logic for HVAC systems, central plants, and critical infrastructure systems.
• Support system integration with SCADA platforms (e.g., Ignition), BMS, and EPMS systems.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field teams to ensure alignment on scope, schedule, and deliverables.
• Lead troubleshooting and resolution of complex control system issues during startup and commissioning.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level PLC engineers, providing technical direction and support.
• Review engineering work and provide feedback to ensure adherence to standards and best practices.
• Support onboarding and training of new team members.
• Participate in client‑facing meetings, providing technical expertise and guidance on automation solutions.
• Work closely with SCADA engineers, field technicians, and system integrators to ensure seamless system deployment.
• Interface with vendors and contractors to support system integration and issue resolution.
• Drive improvements in engineering processes, tools, and workflows to increase efficiency and scalability.
• Identify opportunities to standardize and automate development processes.
• Stay current on emerging technologies and trends in PLC programming, industrial automation, and data center systems.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in PLC programming and industrial automation.
• Strong expertise with Rockwell / Allen‑Bradley (Studio 5000) platforms.
• Proven experience designing and implementing control systems for HVAC, central plants, or similar mechanical systems.
• Experience with system integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting in field environments.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, BACnet/IP, OPC‑UA).
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical efforts and mentor engineers.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred:

• Experience in data centers or high‑availability environments.
• Familiarity with Ignition SCADA, Kepware, or similar platforms.
• Experience with redundant PLC architectures and high‑availability systems.
• Exposure to BMS/EPMS integration.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering (or equivalent experience).