Senior Product Development Engineer

Position Title: Senior Product Development Engineer

Department: Engineering / Product Development

Reports To: Director of Product Development / Engineering Manager

Location:
Houston, TX (preferred) / New Orleans, LA

FLSA Status: Exempt

Date: January 2026

Position Summary

Petrotech Inc., a leader in customized control solutions for turbo and rotating machinery, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Product Development Engineer to drive innovation and support our leadership in the industry. The successful candidate will develop advanced control system solutions, contribute to all phases of product development, and ensure successful project execution. Your expertise in control system design, PLC programming, and engineering analysis will be essential in maintaining our reputation for engineering excellence and delivering reliable, high-performance solutions to our global clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop software applications on various Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) platforms utilizing IEC-61131 programming languages such as Structured Text, Function Block Diagrams, and Ladder Logic.

• Configure, program, and test PLC applications to ensure the safe and efficient operation of rotating machinery and process control systems.

• Participate in all phases of the product development lifecycle, including algorithm design, software development, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and commissioning.

• Utilize engineering simulation tools (e.g., Sim Sci) and custom tools to evaluate control strategies, performance, and system robustness.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, product management, and field services, to develop tailored control solutions.

• Maintain current knowledge of control system technologies, industry standards, and emerging trends to inform development strategies.

• Support technical documentation, testing procedures, and compliance activities related to control system products.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Control Systems Engineering, or a related technical field.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in control system design, PLC/HMI programming, and commissioning within industrial automation, especially for turbo or rotating machinery.

• Proven experience with PLC/PAC programming using IEC-61131 languages (Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, etc.) on platforms such as Allen Bradley RS Logix/Studio 5000, Triconex Tri-Station, Schneider Electric Eco Struxure, Siemens Step 7, or Emerson PAC/GE Fanuc Proficy.

• Experience with distributed control systems (DCS) configuration and programming is a plus.

Technical Skills

• Strong understanding of control system architecture, PLC programming, and automation hardware.

• Ability to develop and troubleshoot control algorithms and software for complex machinery and process applications.

• Familiarity with engineering simulation tools such as Sim Sci or equivalent.

• Programming proficiency in text-based languages such as C, HTML, or similar is a plus.

• Ability to interpret and develop technical documentation, schematics, and control logic diagrams.

Soft Skills

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently.

• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and troubleshooting skills.

• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Collaborative team player with a proactive approach to project execution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Industry certifications in control systems or automation are advantageous.

• Experience with control solutions for turbines, compressors, or other rotating machinery.

• Knowledge of industry standards and best practices related to industrial automation and control systems.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• No direct supervisory responsibilities; however, may lead project teams or coordinate with junior engineers and technicians.

Physical & Travel Requirements

• Ability to travel up to 15% domestically as required for client support, site commissioning, and project meetings.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. (Visa sponsorship…