Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

NorthPoint Search Group; Cumming (GA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

NorthPoint Search Group is seeking a Senior Controls & Automation Engineer to lead the architecture, development, and optimization of complex manufacturing automation systems. You will drive reliability, safety, and scalability across the production floor.

The role requires expert PLC programming (Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi), established control standards, and collaboration with IT/MES. It includes mentoring teams and providing technical leadership on major initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Minimum 10 years in controls/automation engineering or related field.
• Proven experience leading complex automation projects.

Responsibilities

• Architect, develop, and optimize PLC programs using Allen Bradley and Mitsubishi.
• Lead automation initiatives, establish standards, and improve reliability and safety.
• Collaborate with IT and MES to integrate automation with enterprise systems.
• Lead large-scale projects from scope to commissioning and handover.
• Mentor engineers and technicians in advanced troubleshooting and problem resolution.

Skills

PLC programming

Automation leadership

Project management

Mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

English communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Automation/Electrical/Mechatronics

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Mitsubishi

Job description

Position Overview

The Senior Controls & Automation Engineer will provide technical leadership for the architecture, development, implementation, and optimization of sophisticated manufacturing automation systems. This individual will lead major automation initiatives, establish controls standards, improve equipment reliability and safety, and develop engineering capabilities across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect, develop, and optimize PLC programs, primarily utilizing Allen Bradley and Mitsubishi platforms.
• Develop innovative manufacturing controls solutions focused on operator safety, reliability, maintainability, and scalability.
• Establish and enforce controls engineering standards and best practices.
• Collaborate with IT and MES teams to integrate manufacturing automation with enterprise systems.
• Ensure automation systems comply with applicable NEC, NFPA, IEC, and other relevant standards and regulations.
• Oversee technical documentation, including electrical schematics, risk assessments, operating procedures, and controls documentation.
• Lead large-scale automation projects from initial scope and budgeting through procurement, installation, commissioning, and completion.
• Evaluate emerging automation technologies and identify opportunities to improve manufacturing capabilities.
• Evaluate and onboard technology providers and automation vendors.
• Develop strategic relationships with controls and automation equipment suppliers.
• Analyze system performance and present recommendations and improvement opportunities to senior leadership.

Operational Excellence

• Lead root cause analysis for complex or recurring automation and controls issues.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives that increase system reliability, performance, and efficiency.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance programs for automation and controls equipment.
• Provide technical support during critical system issues and project deadlines, including off- hours support when necessary.

Leadership & Capability Development

• Mentor Controls Engineers and maintenance technicians in advanced troubleshooting and problem resolution.
• Train manufacturing and maintenance personnel on new automation systems, technologies, and processes.
• Provide technical guidance and support to other engineering disciplines.
• Foster collaboration across engineering, operations, maintenance, IT, and manufacturing teams.
• Remain current on emerging controls and automation technologies through ongoing professional development and industry networking.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in controls engineering, automation engineering, or a related discipline.
• Bachelor's degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
• Equivalent job-related experience, military service, professional certifications, and demonstrated skills may be considered in lieu of a degree based on the essential functions of the position.
• Proven experience leading complex automation projects.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor engineers and technical professionals.
• Experience with Allen Bradley products is preferred.
• PLC programming expertise; Mitsubishi experience is highly relevant.
• Advanced troubleshooting, diagnostic, and analytical skills.
• Strong project management and technical leadership capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and relevant engineering software.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Proactive, self-driven approach to identifying problems and implementing innovative solutions.
• Ability to read, write, understand, and communicate effectively in English.