Senior Controls Engineer

Location: Birmingham, AL (On-site + Travel)

Compensation: $95,000 – $155,000 + Full Benefits

Travel: 30% (project-based, including commissioning)

A fast-growing industrial automation and systems integration firm is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and deployment of complex control systems across a range of industrial applications.

This is a high-impact technical leadership role responsible not only for advanced controls engineering, but also for mentoring junior engineers, driving standards, and ensuring successful project execution
. The ideal candidate thrives in both hands‑on engineering and leadership environments
, with the ability to take ownership of large‑scale automation projects from concept through commissioning.

• Technical Leadership & System Design
  • Lead the design and development of complex automation systems, including PLC/HMI programming, electrical schematics, and panel layouts
  • Own high‑level system architecture decisions, including multi‑system integration and safety‑critical designs
  • Develop robust, scalable control solutions for custom industrial equipment and processes
  • Troubleshoot and optimize system performance through simulation, testing, and field validation
• Project Execution & Oversight
  • Serve as the lead controls engineer on large, technically complex projects
  • Drive full project lifecycle execution—from design through commissioning
  • Manage timelines, budgets, and engineering deliverables to ensure successful project completion
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and applications teams to ensure seamless integration
  • Lead, mentor, and develop Controls Engineers and Technicians
  • Review work for technical accuracy and provide structured, actionable feedback
  • Identify skill gaps and implement training and development plans
  • Promote a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence
  • Develop and maintain engineering standards, templates, and reusable code libraries
  • Identify inefficiencies and implement improvements to reduce cycle time and rework
  • Track performance metrics (on‑time delivery, engineering hours, quality) and drive improvements
• Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure all designs comply with applicable electrical codes and safety standards (NEC, IEC, OSHA)
  • Lead reviews of safety systems including safety PLC logic, interlocks, and machine safeguarding
  • Support risk assessments, PSSRs, and overall system safety validation
  • Stay current on evolving industry regulations and best practices

• Experience
  • 7+ years of controls engineering experience in industrial automation or systems integration
  • Proven track record leading complex, multi‑disciplinary automation projects
  • Experience mentoring engineers and leading technical teams
• Technical Expertise
  • Advanced PLC/HMI programming (Rockwell, Siemens, or equivalent platforms)
  • Strong background in industrial control systems (VFDs, I/O, motor controls, safety systems, SCADA)
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical for schematics, panel layouts, and BOMs
  • Deep understanding of industrial networks and communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus)
• Leadership & Project Skills
  • Strong ability to lead cross‑functional teams and manage competing priorities
  • Experience with project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation
  • Excellent communication skills for both technical and customer‑facing interactions
• Preferred
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license
  • Certified Automation Professional (CAP)
  • OSHA 30, NFPA 70E, or similar safety certifications
  • Hybrid of office, shop floor, and customer site environments
  • Significant travel for commissioning, troubleshooting, and project execution
  • Hands‑on involvement in real‑world system deployment

• Not a purely managerial role—this is a hands‑on technical leadership position
• Not entry‑or mid‑level—requires deep experience and independent decision‑making
• Not a support role—this person owns critical systems and project outcomes

$95K – $155K base salary (based on experience)

401(k) with company match

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Flexible work environment

• Lead high‑visibility, custom automation projects (not repetitive production work)
• Direct impact on engineering standards and technical direction
• Opportunity to build and shape a growing controls team
• Exposure to advanced automation technologies and complex system integration

To apply, send your resume to

All communications are 100% confidential.

Patrick Del Gaone