Principal Controls Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in aerospace and defense is seeking a Principal Controls Engineer to spearhead automation and robotics implementation. This full-time role demands extensive experience in controls engineering, with responsibilities ranging from system development to compliance assurance. Ideal candidates should possess strong technical skills and a proven record in high-reliability manufacturing environments.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in controls engineering focused on automation and robotics.
• Expert-level proficiency in PLC programming, robotic integration, and motion control.
• Exceptional communication and technical leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and integration of control systems for automated manufacturing.
• Design and program PLCs and robotic systems.
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

Skills

PLC programming

Robotics integration

Motion control

Troubleshooting

Technical leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Master’s degree in automation, controls, or robotics

Job description

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionJob description

Position: Principal Controls Engineer (Full-Time)

Salary: Up to $120k–$130k

Location: 319 Charleigh D Ford Jr Dr, Columbus, MS 39701, USA

Position Summary

We are seeking a seasoned Principal Controls Engineer to lead the design, programming, and implementation of advanced automation and robotic systems for aerospace and defense manufacturing. This role requires deep technical expertise in PLC programming, robotics integration, and motion control systems, with a focus on solving complex automation challenges. The ideal candidate will have 15+ years of experience and a proven track record of driving innovation and operational efficiency in high-reliability manufacturing environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and integration of control systems for automated manufacturing equipment, robotics, and motion platforms.

• Design and program PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.), HMIs, and robotic systems (e.g., Fanuc, ABB, KUKA).

• Conduct troubleshooting and optimization of automation systems, ensuring maximum uptime and efficiency.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement end-to-end automation solutions that meet aerospace and defense standards.

• Develop electrical schematics, panel layouts, interlock diagrams, and system architecture documentation.

• Ensure compliance with safety, cybersecurity, and regulatory requirements (e.g., NFPA 79, ISO 13849, ITAR, AS9100).

• Manage vendor relationships for automation equipment sourcing, commissioning, and support.

• Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians on advanced automation practices and controls logic.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.

• 15+ years of experience in controls engineering, with a focus on automation and robotics in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing.

• Expert-level proficiency in PLC programming, robotic integration, motion control, and industrial communication protocols.

• Strong experience with safety systems, electrical design, and troubleshooting complex machinery.

• Demonstrated ability to lead automation projects from concept through deployment.

• Exceptional communication and technical leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or industry certifications in automation, controls, or robotics.

• Experience with SCADA systems, IIoT platforms, or industrial cybersecurity

protocols.

• Familiarity with both prototype and production-scale automation environments.

• Previous exposure to high-performance machining or composite fabrication automation.