Sr Automation Engineer

Automationtechies; South Holland (IL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Automationtechies is searching for a Sr. Automation Engineer located in South Holland, Illinois. This senior-level position focuses on PLC/SCADA programming, troubleshooting, and project execution. The ideal candidate will enjoy solving complex controls problems and mentoring a technical team.

Responsibilities include leading projects, developing SCADA systems, and providing technical guidance. Applicants should have over 7 years of integration experience, along with strong communication and customer service skills.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of PLC/SCADA integration experience.
• Strong hands-on controls, automation, and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to lead projects and provide technical guidance.

Responsibilities

• Lead PLC/SCADA projects from scope through startup and customer handoff.
• Develop and support Windows-based SCADA systems.
• Mentor and coordinate other SCADA technicians/integrators.

Skills

PLC programming

SCADA systems

Troubleshooting

Technical leadership

Customer service

Education

Degree in Industrial Electronics or Automation/Controls

Job description

Our client is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to join a growing technology team supporting industrial and municipal control system projects. This is a senior-level role that combines hands‑on PLC/SCADA programming, troubleshooting, project execution, and technical leadership.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex controls problems, working directly with customers, mentoring other technical team members, and staying involved in both office‑based project work and field commissioning.

What You’ll Do

• Lead PLC/SCADA projects from scope through startup and customer handoff
• Program, modify, upgrade, and troubleshoot PLC systems
• Develop and support Windows‑based SCADA systems, including alarming, trending, reporting, and system integration
• Develop and modify OIT/HMI applications for equipment control and operator usability
• Troubleshoot instrumentation, pumps, valves, field devices, networks, and control system interfaces
• Establish and follow best practices for programming standards, documentation, backups, testing, FAT/SAT, commissioning, and turnover
• Serve as a technical resource for customers and internal team members
• Mentor and coordinate other SCADA technicians/integrators
• Support estimating, scheduling, manhour estimates, and technical project planning

What We’re Looking For

• 7+ years of PLC/SCADA integration experience
• Strong hands‑on controls, automation, and troubleshooting skills
• Experience with SCADA, HMI/OIT development, PLC programming, industrial communications, and instrumentation
• Ability to lead projects and provide technical guidance to others
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Familiarity with Microsoft Windows operating systems and Office products
• Electrical/panel troubleshooting experience preferred
• Ability to develop electrical schematics, system diagrams, and engineering specifications is a plus
• Experience in water/wastewater treatment is not required, but would be a plus
• Degree in Industrial Electronics, Automation/Controls, or equivalent education and experience

Additional Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, vehicle, and insurance
• Ability to travel for field service and commissioning work within the regional territory
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Must be eligible to work in the United States for any employer

Why This Role?

This is a strong opportunity for an experienced automation professional who wants a senior technical role with variety, customer interaction, project ownership, and the ability to mentor others while remaining hands‑on with PLC/SCADA systems.