Senior Controls Engineer

Job Title:

Senior Controls Engineer

Job Description

This onsite Senior or Principal Electrical Controls Engineer role is based in Orlando and offers the opportunity to lead the design, integration, and execution of highly complex, custom-engineered control systems. You will work on large-scale projects across sports architecture, themed entertainment, and other industries that require innovative mechanization solutions. The position suits an engineer who enjoys solving challenging real-world problems, taking ownership from concept through commissioning, and spending significant time in the field.

You will play a key role in shaping the growth and success of the Florida office while bringing one-of-a-kind systems to life.

Responsibilities

+ Lead the design and development of advanced electrical control systems for large, custom-engineered machinery and mechanization projects.

+ Own projects from concept through commissioning, including requirements definition, system architecture, detailed design, implementation, and final handover.

+ Design and program PLC-based control systems, including logic development, HMI configuration, and integration of VFDs, servo systems, and motor controls.

+ Develop and review electrical schematics, panel layouts, and technical documentation using modern electrical design tools.

+ Integrate control system hardware and software, ensuring robust, safe, and reliable operation of complex machinery and systems.

+ Apply functional safety principles and relevant industry standards to the design and implementation of control systems.

+ Lead system commissioning activities on-site, including startup, testing, tuning, and validation of control systems.

+ Provide hands-on troubleshooting and field support to resolve technical issues and ensure successful system performance.

+ Coordinate closely with clients, contractors, and vendors during design, installation, and commissioning to align expectations and resolve issues in real time.

+ Manage technical risk on complex, custom-engineered systems by identifying potential issues early and implementing effective mitigation strategies.

+ Support the growth and development of the Florida office by contributing to best practices, mentoring team members, and helping refine engineering processes.

+ Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, structural, and systems engineers, to deliver integrated solutions.

+ Maintain clear, accurate technical documentation and contribute to project reports, design reviews, and field records.

+ Travel frequently to project sites to support installations, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer-facing activities.

+ Operate effectively in dynamic environments, working both independently and as part of a team to meet project deadlines and performance goals.

Essential Skills

+ 10+ years of experience in controls engineering or a related field, or at least 3+ years of relevant experience for a candidate at a more junior Senior level.

+ Proven experience designing and implementing control systems for large machinery and custom mechanization projects.

+ Strong proficiency with Rockwell Studio 5000 or equivalent PLC platforms, including PLC programming and troubleshooting.

+ Hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo systems, and motor control.

+

Experience with control system architecture, integration, and functional safety principles.

+ Demonstrated experience in system commissioning, troubleshooting, and field support for complex control systems.

+ Ability to read, create, and modify electrical schematics and related technical documentation.

+ Familiarity with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and its application to industrial control systems.

+ Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field from an ABET-accredited institution.

+ Eligibility as a U.S. person under ITAR requirements due to access to export-controlled technical data.

+ Proficiency with AutoCAD, EPLAN, or similar electrical design tools for control system and panel design.

+ Experience working with three-phase power systems and industrial electrical infrastructure.

+ Demonstrated ability to lead field activities and coordinate effectively with clients, contractors, and vendors.

+ Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to operate effectively in dynamic, field-based environments.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Florida Engineer Intern (E.I.T.) or Professional Engineer (P.E.) license, or the ability to obtain such licensure.

+ Experience in themed entertainment, amusement, or large-scale custom mechanization systems.

+ Experience using 3D CAD tools in support of control system or equipment design.

+ Familiarity with industry standards such as ASTM F2291 and their application to complex mechanized systems.

+ Experience managing technical risk on complex, custom-engineered projects, including identifying and mitigating potential failure modes.

+ Enjoyment of hands-on, field-based engineering…