Senior Controls Software Engineer - Industrial Automation

Proactive Global; Ohio; On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Proactive Global in Ohio is seeking a Senior Controls Software Engineer to join our automation team. You will maintain, optimise and improve PLC and HMI systems in a high-volume distribution environment, taking ownership of controls projects and delivering reliable automation solutions.

You'll troubleshoot complex automation challenges, work with Siemens PLC platforms, VFDs and industrial networks, and coordinate with OEMs and stakeholders on system improvements.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation or material handling.
• Strong electrical and electromechanical troubleshooting skills.
• Expert-level troubleshooting with Siemens PLC platforms.
• Able to read and modify PLC programs using Ladder Logic, Function Block and STL.
• Experience with Siemens-based material handling and warehouse automation.
• Experience with AC VFDs and low-voltage control systems.
• Knowledge of industrial networks (AS-i, Profibus).
• Experience with pallet/conveyor systems and other material handling equipment.
• Self-motivated, proactive with strong communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Modify, maintain and optimise PLC and HMI applications to support facility operations and improve system performance.
• Troubleshoot, repair and upgrade installed automation and material handling systems in collaboration with the Sys Ops team.
• Provide technical support for complex controls issues, root-cause analysis, fault recovery and downtime reduction.
• Maintain and troubleshoot PLC/PC controllers, industrial networks, motor control systems, servo drives, VFDs and electrical distribution systems.
• Provide after-hours controls support to ensure system availability and operational continuity.
• Analyse automation performance, including PLC execution, fault trends, equipment availability, network health and material flow.
• Identify and implement improvements to system reliability, throughput and maintainability.
• Support controls upgrades, lifecycle replacements and capital projects, including testing, commissioning and startup activities.
• Coordinate with OEMs, vendors and internal stakeholders on technical requirements and system improvements.
• Communicate technical issues, corrective actions and improvement recommendations to site management and operational leadership.

Skills

Siemens PLC troubleshooting

Electromechanical troubleshooting

PLC programming

Industrial networks

Problem solving

Communication

Tools

Siemens PLC platforms

HMI applications

Job description

Proactive Global in Ohio is seeking a Senior Controls Software Engineer to join our automation team. You will maintain, optimise and improve PLC and HMI systems in a high-volume distribution environment, taking ownership of controls projects and delivering reliable automation solutions.

You'll troubleshoot complex automation challenges, work with Siemens PLC platforms, VFDs and industrial networks, and coordinate with OEMs and stakeholders on system improvements.