Automation Controls Programmer Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

If you love turning complex power systems into smart, scalable, real-world solutions, this is your playground. The Senior Controls Engineer - Power & Energy Systems is the technical force behind advanced control and software systems that connect power generation, energy storage, and behind-the-meter technologies so they actually work together in the real world.

You'll sit at the intersection of controls, software, and energy systems, building solutions that don't just run equipment but optimize it. Think PLCs, SCADA, OEM integration, and real-time data all working together across industrial and energy environments.

This role is for someone who enjoys building the brains behind complex systems and making them work in the field where it matters most. You'll translate complex requirements into clean, reliable, high-performing solutions across power generation, storage, and industrial automation.

If your mindset is "make it smarter, faster, more reliable, and actually connected," you'll fit right in.

Design, develop, test, and implement PLC and SCADA-based control solutions for complex industrial and power systems, including generation assets, distributed energy resources, and OEM integrations across platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Ignition, and AVEVA
Develop and configure HMI applications that provide intuitive, real-time monitoring and control across industrial and energy environments
Translate project requirements into scalable control system architectures while integrating field devices such as generators, switchgear, and energy storage systems using industrial communication protocols and enterprise platforms
Partner with clients, engineers, OEMs, and IT/OT teams to deliver fully integrated automation solutions that align with operational, safety, and performance requirements
Lead on-site commissioning and startup activities including FAT/SAT support, troubleshooting, system optimization, and operator training to ensure successful system performance in the field
Create and maintain detailed project documentation including control narratives, system descriptions, operator manuals, commissioning records, and change logs
Serve as a technical resource to clients and internal teams by solving complex problems, supporting system improvements, and ensuring reliable long-term operation of deployed systems
Stay current with advancements in industrial automation, cybersecurity for OT systems, and energy applications such as DERs, microgrids, and demand response participation
Contribute to internal standards, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement while adapting to evolving project and business needs

Experience in energy-intensive or continuous process industries such as ethanol, seed oil, pet food, food & beverage, or similar
Experience with distributed energy resources (DER), microgrids, energy storage systems, or hybrid generation
Familiarity with energy market participation (demand response, peak shaving, ancillary services, ISO/RTO operations)
Exposure to cloud platforms, IIoT systems, data analytics, or historian integration
Knowledge of OT cybersecurity frameworks and secure system architecture practices
Experience integrating OEM equipment into SCADA/PLC environments and unified control systems

Bachelor's degree (B.A., B.S.) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
Associate's degree (A.A., A.S.) in Instrumentation & Controls or related technical field preferred
Equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience accepted
Strong experience in industrial automation programming and startup/commissioning environments
Experience working directly with customers on system requirements and technical solution design
Hands-on experience with object-oriented programming, UI development, database systems, and system integration across industrial environments

Location: This position and individual will be based near an Interstates office location.

Travel: The amount of travel will vary according to business requirements (may be up to 35%). 

Benets You Can Depend On:

In addition to highly competitive pay and quality benets, Interstates strives to oer opportunities for education and career development, empowering you to have a career that's built to last. Some of our benets include:

• Competitive pay
• Bonus incentives
• 401(k)
• Health, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• PTO and Holiday Pay
• Disability and Life Insurance
• Parental Leave
• Advancement Opportunities

#ind3