Senior Automation & Controls Engineer - Food & Beverage

Lead Automation & Controls EngineerThis position is accountable for directing and delivering advanced control system solutions across a diverse portfolio of capital projects. The role supports full lifecycle execution-from early concept development through detailed engineering, installation, and commissioning-within complex manufacturing and industrial environments.

The individual will own the technical delivery of automation systems, ensuring alignment with project objectives, operational requirements, and safety expectations. Assignments may include both standalone automation initiatives and integrated, multidisciplinary project efforts.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Drive the planning, design, and implementation of automation and control systems throughout all phases of project execution.
• Ensure adherence to all organizational and site-specific safety requirements.
• Maintain overall responsibility for control system scope, including hardware and software design.
• Provide leadership to a team of engineers and technical specialists, coordinating closely with cross-functional groups such as project management, electrical engineering, procurement, construction, and estimating.
• Oversee development of automation software solutions, including PLC and HMI programming, batch systems, and digital manufacturing platforms, along with associated infrastructure (e.g., servers and virtual environments).
• Lead commissioning and startup activities to validate system performance and functionality.
• Produce and review engineering documentation such as instrument indexes, I/O databases, functional descriptions, control panel designs, and installation drawings.
• Direct vendor engagement for control panels and related equipment, including specification, procurement support, and factory acceptance testing.
• Contribute to electrical system design for power distribution and motor control systems at low- and medium-voltage levels.
• Define measurement and instrumentation strategies for key process parameters using appropriate sensing and control technologies.
• Collaborate with process engineering teams to interpret process flow documentation and ensure proper integration of control strategies.
• Perform design validation, engineering calculations, and technical reporting to support project decisions.
• Coordinate with remote or external engineering resources to manage deliverables and maintain schedule alignment.
• Lead internal quality assurance reviews of technical submissions to ensure compliance with standards and project requirements.
• Support construction planning and execution, including coordination with field personnel and contract development.
• Develop cost estimates, schedules, and resource plans using industry-standard tools and software.
• Monitor project budgets and progress in partnership with project leadership.
• Provide on-site support for installation, troubleshooting, and system testing activities.
• Manage technical changes and communicate updates through formal project processes.
• Participate in business development efforts, including proposal support, client engagement, and identification of new opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with stakeholders, vendors, and project partners.
• Mentor junior staff, contribute to team development, and assist with staffing and resource allocation.
• Travel periodically to project locations to support field activities and commissioning efforts.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Controls, or related discipline) from an accredited institution, along with relevant professional experience; or
• Master's degree in a related engineering field with demonstrated industry experience.
• Strong background in automation and control systems within industrial or manufacturing project environments.
• Solid understanding of engineering standards and codes related to electrical and control system design.
• Experience with a variety of automation platforms, including PLC, SCADA, DCS, and safety systems.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams, assign work, and resolve complex engineering challenges.
• Strong analytical thinking and structured problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent organizational skills with a high level of attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to review and validate detailed engineering documents and specifications.
• Willingness to travel as required for project support.
• Ability to obtain necessary site access credentials where applicable.

Preferred Experience & Skills:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or progress toward licensure.
• Experience working on large-scale, multidisciplinary engineering projects.
• Familiarity with industry standards such as NFPA, ISA, IEC, IEEE, and functional safety frameworks.
• Hands-on experience with leading automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens) and exposure to additional systems is advantageous.
• Knowledge of SCADA and visualization platforms, as well as manufacturing execution systems…