Lead Controls Engineer - Food and Beverage Specialty M​/F

Lead Controls Engineer - Food and Beverage Specialty M/F

Avanceon is hiring a Principal Controls Engineer to support a long-term, strategic food & beverage customer relationship. This is a key technical role focused on multi-site process automation integration, working across batching, packaging, and CIP systems.

You'll serve as the technical right-hand to the Operations Manager, leading project execution while also acting as a mentor and subject matter expert to the broader engineering team. Ideal candidates will bring hands-on controls experience in food processing environments and a passion for delivering solutions that are smart, scalable, and operations-friendly.

What You'll Do

• Lead the design and execution of control system solutions for one of our most valued food & beverage customers
• Serve as a technical authority on food process automation—including process/batching, CIP, packaging, and utilities
• Architect PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems (primarily Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Aveva)
• Drive innovation through practical application of Industry 4.0 and IIoT technologies
• Act as the customer's trusted engineering partner—engaging with plant and corporate stakeholders across multiple locations
• Lead FATs, site commissioning, and startup activities nationwide
• Mentor and support other engineers on the project team
• Collaborate closely with the Operations Manager to ensure successful delivery and build long-term trust

What You Bring

• 7+ years in industrial automation, with strong experience in food & beverage manufacturing environments
• Deep knowledge of food processing systems (e.g., batching, mixing, sanitation, temperature control, line integration)
• Hands-on proficiency in PLCs (Allen-Bradley preferred), SCADA platforms (Factory Talk, Aveva, Ignition), and HMI development
• Proficient in AutoCAD Electrical and control panel design best practices
• Strong communication skills—you can bridge the gap between IT, plant floor, and corporate engineering teams
• Ability and willingness to travel to customer sites (10–25%)

Why This Role Is Unique

• Work on high-impact systems that directly affect national food supply
• Join a tight-knit, high-trust customer team that values long-term partnerships over transactional projects
• Influence enterprise-wide system design through your technical expertise
• Support a customer with modern plants, forward-thinking leadership, and ongoing innovation initiatives

Avanceon is committed to creating an inclusive environment that values and welcomes diversity among our associates. We are an equal-opportunity employer and consider qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status.