Senior Automation Engineer

LVI Associates; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

LVI Associates in Houston, TX is seeking a senior automation professional to lead design, development, and commissioning of industrial automation projects across manufacturing sectors. You will program PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA, mentor engineers, and collaborate with clients to define requirements and deliver successful outcomes.

This role requires 5+ years in automation, a strong background in Rockwell, Siemens, Ignition, and hands-on experience with system integration, motion control, and

Qualifications

• 5+ years in industrial automation or controls engineering.
• Experience with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms (Rockwell, Siemens, Ignition).
• Background in system integration, process control, motion control, machine automation, robotics.
• Proven project leadership and technical direction.
• Willingness to travel 25–40%.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and implementation of automation solutions.
• Program, configure, and commission PLC, HMI, SCADA systems.
• Support architecture, troubleshooting, startup activities.
• Directly gather requirements with clients and guide projects.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.
• Participate in project planning and continuous improvement.
• Travel to customer sites for commissioning and support.

Skills

Industrial Automation

Project Leadership

PLC/HMI/SCADA

Customer Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

Rockwell

Siemens

Ignition

Job description

Join a growing engineering team delivering complex industrial automation projects across a range of manufacturing and industrial sectors. This role is suited to a senior-level automation professional who enjoys leading technical projects, mentoring engineers, and working across diverse control system environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of industrial automation solutions.
• Program, configure, and commission PLC, HMI, SCADA, and control systems.
• Support system architecture, controls design, troubleshooting, and startup activities.
• Work directly with clients to gather requirements, provide technical guidance, and deliver successful project outcomes.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to technical leadership across projects.
• Participate in project planning, execution, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Travel to customer sites for commissioning and support activities as required.

Requirements

• 5+ years of industrial automation or controls engineering experience.
• Strong experience with PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Ignition, or similar.
• Background in system integration, process control, motion control, machine automation, robotics, or related disciplines.
• Proven ability to lead projects and provide technical direction to engineering teams.
• Experience commissioning and troubleshooting industrial control systems.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work directly with customers and stakeholders.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical discipline preferred.
• Approximately 25-40% travel.

Highlights

• Lead complex automation projects from design through commissioning.
• Exposure to a variety of industries, technologies, and challenging applications.
• Opportunity to mentor engineers and influence technical direction.
• Mix of hands-on engineering, project leadership, and customer engagement.