Lead Automation Controls PM — PLC​/SCADA Expert

Job Title:
Automation Controls Engineer / Project Manager

Job Description

This role combines hands-on automation engineering with end-to-end project management for commercial and industrial construction projects. You will design, develop, and implement PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems, lead project delivery from concept through commissioning, and provide technical leadership to a small, growing engineering team. The position offers the opportunity to shape automation standards, optimize processes, and contribute directly to the continued growth of an established, expanding organization.

Job Title:
Automation Controls Engineer / Project Manager



Job Description

This role combines hands-on automation engineering with end-to-end project management for commercial and industrial construction projects. You will design, develop, and implement PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems, lead project delivery from concept through commissioning, and provide technical leadership to a small, growing engineering team. The position offers the opportunity to shape automation standards, optimize processes, and contribute directly to the continued growth of an established, expanding organization.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement automation control systems, including PLC, HMI, and SCADA solutions for commercial and industrial applications.
• Program and troubleshoot automation hardware and software across platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric, and equivalent systems.
• Support and contribute to the design of process automation systems, ensuring reliability, safety, and maintainability.
• Collaborate closely with project teams to deliver custom automation solutions on time and within budget.
• Provide technical support, guidance, and mentorship to automation technicians and other technical staff.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive system documentation, including control logic descriptions, electrical schematics, and operation manuals.
• Ensure all automation and electrical work complies with applicable standards and codes such as NFPA, NEC, UL 508A, and OSHA.
• Participate in system commissioning, testing, and field startup, including occasional field service as required.
• Develop bid strategies and proposals that are accurate, complete, and competitive, partnering with project managers across both automation and electrical divisions.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors and subcontractors to support competitive pricing and reliable delivery.
• Provide oversight and technical guidance for UL 508A panel shop activities, including design, build, and installation of control panels.
• Continuously improve automation department processes, procedures, templates, and best practices to increase efficiency and quality.
• Develop and manage detailed project schedules, resource plans, and milestones to ensure on-time project delivery.
• Monitor and manage project financials, including cost tracking, forecasting, and margin performance.
• Coordinate across internal teams, including engineering, field operations, and the panel shop, to ensure alignment and effective execution.
• Apply strong business acumen to evaluate project risks, profitability, and overall feasibility.
• Support construction management and project engineering activities related to automation and electrical scopes.
• Contribute to standards and template creation using tools such as AutoCAD, PLC programming environments, and SCADA platforms like Ignition.
• Leverage knowledge of local labor markets, suppliers, and subcontractors to support project planning and execution.

• Post-secondary education in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Controls, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Proven experience in automation engineering, controls design, and programming for commercial and industrial projects.
• Strong proficiency in PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems programming and troubleshooting, including platforms such as Rockwell/Allen-Bradley and Siemens or similar.
• Hands-on experience with Rockwell software such as RSLogix and Factory Talk View, and SCADA platforms such as Ignition.
• Experience with PLC families such as Compact Logix, Micro Logix, SLC, Modicon, or equivalent.
• Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols such as Ether Net/IP, Modbus, Device Net, and Profibus.
• Strong understanding of relevant codes and standards, including NFPA 70, NEC, and UL 508A.
• Experience with commissioning, field startup, and on-site troubleshooting of automation systems.
• Demonstrated project management experience within the electrical or construction industries.
• Experience managing automation or electrical construction projects from planning through closeout.
• Proficiency with project management tools for scheduling, resource planning, and tracking deliverables.
• Strong understanding of project financials, including budgeting, cost tracking, forecasting, and margin management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across…