Senior Automation & Controls Engineer - Food & Beverage

Lead Automation & Controls Engineer

This 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.

• 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.

• 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.
• Abilit…