Senior Controls Engineer

APEX Controls, LLC; Hudsonville (MI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

APEX Controls, LLC is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead design, implementation, and optimization of automated control systems for customer manufacturing processes at a senior level. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to improve productivity, quality, and process controls while ensuring regulatory compliance.

The role is a full-time salaried-exempt position based in Hudsonville, MI, with responsibilities spanning project leadership, system upgrades, documentation, and

Qualifications

• BS degree in engineering or related discipline preferred with 5+ years in controls automation.
• Proficiency with 2-D CAD software.
• Strong experience in PLC/SCADA/HMI programming and troubleshooting (Rockwell, Siemens).
• Experience in process optimization and advanced control strategies (PID tuning).
• Familiarity with NEC and safety standards; control system hardware/software experience.
• Proven ability to lead projects and cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, configuration, and maintenance of control systems (PLC, SCADA, HMI) across customer facilities.
• Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve issues related to control systems and instrumentation.
• Implement process optimization to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and waste.
• Develop and manage control documentation (FSDs, P&IDs, system diagrams).
• Provide technical leadership for capital projects from scope to commissioning/validation.
• Lead system upgrades, migrations, and expansions for future process improvements.
• Mentor junior engineers and technicians in process control best practices.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Communication

Multitasking

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Tools

Rockwell PLC

Siemens PLC

SCADA

HMI programming

DCS

PlantPAx

Job description

Job Description

Job DescriptionDescription:

Job Description

Apex Controls is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Controls Engineer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will lead the development, implementation, and optimization of automated control systems for customer’s manufacturing processes. You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure efficient, reliable, and safe operations. Your expertise will help drive improvements in productivity, quality, and process controls, while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

This role is a full-time salaried-exempt role, the salary ranges listed below include total rewards such as base salary, premium pay, bonus & benefits

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, configuration, and maintenance of control systems (PLC, SCADA, HMI) across customers facility.
• Analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve issues related to control systems, instrumentation, and automation.
• Implement process optimization strategies to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and minimize waste.
• Optimize control system process loops.
• Collaborate with customers to ensure smooth integration of control systems.
• Develop and manage process control documentation, including control system functional specifications documents, P&IDs, and system architecture diagrams.
• Provide technical leadership for capital projects, including scope development, commissioning, and validation.
• Lead control system upgrades, migrations, and expansions to support future process enhancements.
• Mentor and train junior engineers and technical staff in process control best practices.
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Understand and comply with internal standards, customer-specific standards recognized national/international standards and safety standards.
• Work with both Apex and customer staff to evaluate future projects.
• Work with internal and external electricians and electrical technicians in the review of control system construction and wiring, including troubleshooting assistance of both Apex Controls’ design and interfaces to systems provided by others.
• Provide timely and accurate feedback regarding project status.
• Participate in, and lead, training of customers, both technical and non-technical.
• Willing to participate/lead internal training activities.
• Actively share knowledge with peers.
• Willing and able to travel when needed.
• Always act with honesty and integrity.

Requirements:

Education, Work Experience, and Skill Set Expectations:

• BS degree in engineering or related discipline is preferred. Five plus years of controls systems automation work experience may be acceptable.
• Proficient with 2-D CAD software.
• Proficiency in DCS, Plant PAX, PLC, SCADA, HMI programming and troubleshooting (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens).
• Experience in process optimization and advanced control strategies (e.g., PID tuning).
• Familiar with National Electric Code and other common electrical standards, including safety standards.
• Experience with control system hardware and software.
• Proven ability to lead projects and cross-functional teams.
• Highly organized and able to multitask
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong communicator, both internally and with customers or suppliers
• Experience in a regulated industry (e.g., pharmaceuticals, chemicals, oil & gas, food & beverage, wastewater).
• Certification in process control systems (e.g., ISA, TUV) is a plus but not required.