Senior Controls Engineer

Howmet Aerospace Inc.; Niles (OH); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

Howmet Aerospace Inc. is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead plant automation and drive reliability across PLC/SCADA, HMIs, and robotics.

You will manage end-to-end projects, implement process improvements, and mentor technicians to improve safety and uptime. The role requires strong programming/maintenance expertise in industrial automation, ITAR compliance, and a proven track record in a heavy manufacturing setting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology.
• 5+ years of experience programming/maintaining PLCs, HMIs, databases.
• Strong working knowledge of control and automation programs including robotics in industrial manufacturing.
• ITAR requires U.S. person status.

Responsibilities

• Own plant automation control systems (Level 0–2) and programming.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose complex system faults to maximize OEE.
• Lead capital projects from inception to completion within scope, budget, and timeline.
• Maintain change-management records and system backups.
• Mentor junior engineers and maintenance staff.
• Ensure safety/compliance with EHS policies and emergency shutdowns.

Skills

PLC/SCADA programming

Robotics systems

VB.Net

Python

Java

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Allen Bradley PLCs

Robot Studio

Ignition

SQL Server

Windows Administration

Job description

• Job Schedule Full time

Responsibilities

The Senior Controls Engineer owns the facility's automation control systems to maximize reliability, safety, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE). This role balances advanced hands-on troubleshooting of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and robotic systems with end-to-end capital project management. The incumbent collaborates across all business functions and external vendors to deliver engineering solutions with minimal production downtime.

Core Responsibilities:

Automation Ownership: Serve as the sole authority for plant control networks (Level 0–2), PLC/SCADA programming, and process control IT policies.

Troubleshooting & Support: Diagnose complex system faults, perform root cause analyses, and implement rapid repair solutions to maximize OEE.

System Integrity: Maintain master backups and rigorous change-management records for all automation programs and hardware configurations.

Capital Projects: Lead engineering projects from inception to completion, managing scopes, RFAs, technical specs, vendor quotes, timelines, and budgets.

Continuous Improvement: Evaluate new technologies and implement process upgrades to eliminate waste, improve safety, and reduce downtime.

Safety & Compliance: Enforce company, state, and federal EHS policies, including authorizing emergency equipment shutdowns when necessary.

Mentorship: Train and mentor junior engineers, maintenance supervisors, and craft technicians on automated systems.

Performing other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology.
• Minimum five (5) years of experience in programming and maintaining PLCs, HMIs, and Databases.
• Candidate must have a strong working knowledge of control and automation programs, including robotics and automation in industrial manufacturing.
• This position is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), which requires U.S. person status. ITAR defines U.S. person as an U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. ‘Green Card Holder’), Political Asylee, or Refugee

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with Allen Bradley PLCs and HMIs.
• Experience with ABB Robots, Robot Studio and vision systems a plus.
• Experience with Ignition, SCADA
• Familiarity with programming VB.Net, Python, Java, Java Script, Microsoft SQL Server, Windows Administration, and Network Management.
• Device integration experience via serial, TCP/IP, OPC-UA and proprietary protocols.
• Experience working within a heavy manufacturing environment.
• The ability to effectively communicate (verbally and written) and delegate while maintaining forward motion on key deliverables.
• A high degree of interpersonal skills to motivate and influence others, including those not under their direct supervision.
• Demonstrated abilities of problem solving, systems thinking, project management, and team building.

Working Conditions:

This position involves moderate exposure to risk of accident and requires following basic safety precautions. Work is normally performed in an interior work environment, while regularly accessing plant equipment for assessment. While not exposed to hazardous materials, this position requires wearing full PPE to protect from mobile equipment and hot materials when on the shop floor.

This position requires moderate physical activity, such as all motions necessary to inspect production equipment in and out of confined spaces.

This position also requires a willingness to maintain a flexible work schedule and travel (typically 10% or less) both domestically and internationally, as requested.

About Us

Compensation and Benefits:

If a pay range is identified for this job, it is based on a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. Actual compensation is subject to variation due to factors such as education, experience, skillset, market/business considerations, and/or location.

Howmet Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package to support the health, financial well-being, and professional growth of our employees. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits coverage, including FSA and HSA account options
• Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans offering employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution
• Paid holidays and vacation time (eligibility, accrual, and usage are discretionary and governed by applicable policies)
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs
• Life insurance and disability coverage plans
• Optional coverage plans for auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance
• Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Our Story:

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report . Follow: LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube .

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We 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, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.