HMI Lead

Senior HMI / Automation Engineer (Contract)

Location: Jacksonville, FL (hybrid heavily preferred/remote with travel to site will be considered)

Duration: 12 months+ (with commissioning and qualification support across multiple projects, this is expected to extend as part of a multiyear project)

Industry: Advanced Manufacturing / Industrial Automation

Start: Immediate - equipment already in transit

We are supporting a high‑volume, advanced manufacturing organization that is actively deploying new technology across multiple production lines in Jacksonville. These sites manufacture billions of lenses annually and are executing a robust multi‑year capital pipeline
, with individual projects ranging from $50M-$100M
.

As machinery and automation systems are delivered from multiple OEMs, a critical gap has been identified around HMI standardization and supplier alignment
. This role will serve as the technical authority for HMI harmonization
, working hands‑on with PLC/HMI code, equipment suppliers, and internal teams to define, influence, and enforce consistent HMI and automation standards‑without compromising project schedules.

This is a highly visible, supplier‑facing role suited for a senior automation professional who is equally comfortable on the factory floor, inside Studio 5000, and in technical discussions with OEMs.

• HMI Platform: Rockwell Factory Talk View
• PLC Platform: Rockwell Control Logix (Studio 5000 / URA
  5000)
• Architecture: Complex, multi‑vendor automation environment
• Programming: Ladder Logic with HMI interfaces via tags and UDTs

• Multiple equipment vendors applying inconsistent HMI object models, faceplates, and UDT structures
• Variability in supplier‑delivered code and architecture
• Ongoing need to decide:
  • What can realistically be standardized
  • What must be accepted to protect schedule
  • Where and how to push back on suppliers

• Review and assess HMI and PLC code using Factory Talk View and Studio 5000
• Analyze and compare vendor‑specific automation architectures
• Identify gaps and inconsistencies in:
  • HMI objects
  • Faceplates
  • UDT structures
• Develop practical recommendations to harmonize and standardize HMI approaches across vendors
• Balance standardization goals with project timelines
• Act as a technical liaison in supplier coordination and alignment discussions
• Support commissioning and qualification activities as equipment is installed and brought online
• Engage directly with:
  • Operators
  • Maintenance teams
  • Internal controls engineers
  • Equipment suppliers

• Strong background in industrial automation and manufacturing equipment
• Hands‑on factory floor experience with live production systems
• Deep expertise in HMI design, usability, and operator interaction
• Extensive experience with Rockwell Automation platforms
  :
  • Factory Talk View
  • Studio 5000 / Control Logix
• Proven ability to work directly with OEMs and system suppliers
• Confident communicator capable of:
  • Challenging vendor approaches
  • Driving technical alignment
  • Facilitating consensus under schedule pressure
• Senior‑level experience strongly preferred due to system complexity and supplier‑facing nature of the role

EOE Statement: Specialist Staffing Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for benefits such as health insurance, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance, and paid leave where required by applicable law. Eligibility may vary based on factors such as location and hire date and is subject to change.