Project Leader Engineering II (PLC/Controls)

Vanderlande Industries GmbH; Marietta (GA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderlande Industries GmbH is seeking a Project Leader Engineer II (PLC/Controls) to drive cross-functional engineering teams from concept to customer handover, ensuring high-performance system designs and on-time delivery.

The role requires planning, coordination, and strong communication to manage hardware, software (PLC/PC‑based), installation, testing, and documentation across material handling projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience on large‑scale material handling systems.
• Willingness to travel up to 50% or as project milestones require.
• Proactive, hands-on, and self-directed work style.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, especially under pressure.
• Ability to balance quality, schedule, cost, scope, and resources.
• Experience leading specialized teams on complex technical projects.
• Ability to motivate, mentor, and support team members.
• Basic understanding of mechanical installation and design standards.
• Working knowledge of controls engineering principles.
• Familiarity with electrical installation and design standards.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects from concept through customer handover, ensuring strong technical execution and successful outcomes.
• Oversee system design activities including hardware, network architecture, software development (PLC/PC-based), installation, integration, and testing.
• Ensure system functionality, technical accuracy, and quality across material handling solutions.

Skills

Project leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Controls engineering

Mechanical installation knowledge

Travel up to 50%

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent practical experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Project Leader Engineer II (PLC/Controls)

The Project Leader Engineer II (PLC/Controls) is responsible for leading cross‑functional engineering teams in transforming sold projects into fully realized, high‑performing system designs. This role requires strong planning, coordination, and communication skills to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards. Acting as the technical authority and primary liaison between engineering teams, customers, and internal stakeholders, the Project Leader Engineer II plays a critical role in driving successful project outcomes.

Responsibilities & Tasks

Project Execution

• Lead projects from concept through customer handover, ensuring strong technical execution, positive financial performance, and overall project success.
• Oversee complete system design activities, including hardware systems, network architecture, software development (PLC and/or PC‑based systems), electrical installation, component integration, commissioning, and testing.
• Ensure system functionality, technical accuracy, and quality across all material handling solutions.

Project Planning & Coordination

• Develop and maintain detailed engineering project plans and schedules; monitor progress and provide regular updates.
• Coordinate engineering activities with the Project Manager, Site Manager, subcontractors, and other key stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely across the value chain to ensure aligned, efficient, and seamless project execution.

Documentation & Reporting

• Create and maintain functional system specifications, interface specifications, and high‑level test plans (FAT, SAT, CAT), including validation activities.
• Manage all engineering‑related project information and ensure proper documentation control and archiving.
• Provide clear, consistent progress reports — including risks, issues, and opportunities — to the Project Manager and Engineering Manager.

Budget & Safety

• Monitor and control engineering budgets throughout the project lifecycle.
• Perform health and safety analyses and coordinate safety‑related activities during the engineering phase.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working on large‑scale material handling systems.
• Ability and willingness to travel up to 50% or as required by project milestones.
• Proactive, hands‑on, and self‑directed work style.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, especially under pressure.
• Ability to balance quality, schedule, cost, scope, and resources effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to lead specialized teams on complex technical projects.
• Ability to motivate, mentor, and support team members.
• Basic understanding of mechanical installation and design standards.
• Working knowledge of controls engineering principles.
• Familiarity with electrical installation and design standards.
• Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Project Management certification or relevant project management experience.
• Technical background in material handling processes and applicable industry standards.
• Advanced knowledge of software testing methodologies.
• Leadership experience managing project teams and contributing to people development.

EEOC Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.