Automation & Controls Project Manager

Automation & Controls Project Manager

The Lead Automation & Controls Project Manager is responsible for the end-to-end leadership of complex industrial automation and control systems projects. This role involves leading projects from Front-End Engineering & Design (FEED) through detailed design, commissioning, and start-up. The position requires a blend of technical expertise in automation systems and commercial execution leadership, ensuring projects are delivered safely, profitably, and in alignment with client expectations.

The manager will serve as the primary technical and commercial authority on assigned projects, leading multidisciplinary teams and maintaining strong client relationships.

• Lead and oversee all phases of automation and controls projects, including FEED, detailed engineering, panel integration, factory acceptance testing, site commissioning, and start-up.

• Serve as the technical authority for control, safety, and information system solutions across industrial process applications.

• Ensure automation architectures, control philosophies, and system designs align with project scope, client standards, and industry best practices.

• Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve complex technical challenges during execution and commissioning.

• Manage projects with a focus on contract value growth, margin protection, and revenue realization.

• Identify and manage client scope changes, developing change orders to prevent margin erosion.

• Maintain responsibility for project budgets, cost forecasting, earned value tracking, and financial reporting.

• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules covering engineering, panel fabrication, procurement, and field execution activities.

• Communicate scope, schedule, and budget expectations to project team members and ensure accountability for milestones.

• Prepare and present project status reports, forecasts, and progress updates to clients and internal leadership.

• Lead and manage Sr. automation engineers, designers, panel shop resources, commissioning/start-up personnel, and MCC fabrication partners.

• Plan and optimize resource allocation to ensure high utilization and billability of project teams.

• Provide direction, mentorship, and technical guidance to junior engineers and project management staff.

• Serve as the primary client interface for assigned projects, building trust through strong technical leadership and proactive communication.

• Support proposal and business development efforts by reviewing RFQs, technical specifications, and commercial terms.

• Ensure project execution complies with company standards, client safety requirements, and regulatory expectations.

• Collaborate with project teams to share expertise, standardize execution practices, and support multi-office projects.

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering

• Strong experience with MS Business Central ERP

• PMP Professional Project Management Certification

• 10+ years of proven project management experience in managing control system and automation projects in industries such as Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, Refining, LNG, Data Centers, and Power Generation

• Familiarity with OEM control system platforms like Rockwell Automation products, Wonderware HMI software, Ignition HMI software, Emerson Delta-V platforms, and Invensys platforms

• Effective communication skills

• Strong track record of generating new business or increasing project revenues through effective project management skills and customer relationships

The position is onsite and involves managing automation teams to take projects from start to finish. You will join a strong team that delivers the best automation solutions and services in industrial markets such as Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, Refining, LNG, Data Centers, and Power Generation. This role is an outstanding opportunity to lead innovative solutions supporting the emerging Energy Sector Markets in the U.S. and globally.

This is a Contract position based out of Plano, TX.

The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/hr.

• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and…