Automation Controls Engineer Jobs Near Me

Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Make an Impact Through Automation Innovation

Are you passionate about building high-performance automation systems that power modern manufacturing? Join our team as a Senior Automation & Controls Engineer, where you'll lead the design and execution of advanced manufacturing equipment using controls, robotics, vision & AI that drive precision, safety, and throughput across multiple manufacturing sites.

In this role, you won't just support automation-you'll own it. From defining architecture to commissioning systems on the production floor, you'll shape the future of how we design, build, and scale automated equipment. If you thrive in hands-on environments and enjoy solving complex engineering challenges, this is your opportunity to make a measurable impact.

What You'll Do

• Lead End-to-End Automation Projects: Drive projects from concept to commissioning across multiple manufacturing environments.
• Design & Build Advanced Systems: Develop and deploy control systems for custom equipment (PLC, HMI, robotics, vision systems, AMRs/AGVs, material handling, and more).
• Own Controls Architecture: Define scalable, reliable, and maintainable control system standards that support long-term growth.
• Program for Performance: Write clean, structured, and reusable control code to enable flexibility and efficiency at scale.
• Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Partner with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure seamless deployment and performance.
• Manage External Partners: Ensure supplier and integrator deliverables meet system requirements, quality standards, and safety expectations.
• Troubleshoot & Optimize: Diagnose and resolve complex controls issues directly on the production floor to minimize downtime.
• Drive Continuous Improvement: Identify automation opportunities and implement solutions that improve safety, throughput, and operational efficiency.
• Champion Safety: Conduct risk assessments and hazard analyses; design mitigation strategies for automated systems.
• Mentor & Lead: Support and develop junior engineers while fostering a culture of innovation and excellence.

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronics, Automation, Robotics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience designing, developing, and maintaining automated equipment in a discrete manufacturing environment
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Omron)
• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., UR, KUKA, Epson, Staubli) and machine vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence)
• Strong understanding of industrial networks and communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, ProfiNet, Profibus)
• Experience with machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence, etc.)
• Experience integrating automation systems with MES/SCADA platforms
• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks Electrical, AutoCAD)
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, project-based environment

Preferred Experience

• 8+ years of automation engineering experience in discrete manufacturing
• Experience establishing internal standards for control system architecture and engineering processes
• Strong vendor management and project execution skills (cost, schedule, quality)
• Expertise specifying and deploying automation technologies (robots, conveyors, sensors, instrumentation, AGVs, etc.)
• Experience supporting equipment build, integration, testing, and validation

Why Join Us

• Own Your Impact - Take full responsibility for automation systems powering custom manufacturing equipment
• Work on Cutting-Edge Technology - Robotics, vision systems, smart manufacturing, and advanced controls
• Collaborate with Industry Experts - Partner across engineering, operations, and global manufacturing teams
• Drive Real Results - Improve safety, efficiency, and performance across multiple sites
• Grow Your Career - Opportunities to lead, mentor, and shape engineering standards

Additional Details

• Up to 20% travel (domestic & international)
• Hands-on role supporting both project execution and live production environments

If you're ready to build robust, high-performing automation systems that scale across manufacturing operations-and want to own the future of controls engineering-we'd love to hear from you.

#LI-JS1