Senior Engineering Team Lead

Senior Engineering Team Lead (PLC | SCADA Service Supervisor)

Reston, VA – Hybrid (2 days onsite, local travel | Up to 25% travel overnight)

District Energy Team

Relocation support available

Salary Range: $110K - $150K

Thermo Systems is a global, full-service control systems integrator delivering world-class automation for Energy, Life Sciences, and Mission Critical markets. Our culture—The Thermo Way— is built on connection, adaptability, and excellence. We empower our people to perform at their best while driving innovation, collaboration, and lasting success for our customers and employees alike.

We’re seeking a Senior Engineering Team Lead with strong experience in PLC and SCADA systems to lead service and project delivery for our Energy clients in the DC Metro area. This role blends hands‑on technical leadership with project management and team development. You’ll oversee a small, talented group of engineers while ensuring high‑quality automation solutions for regional clients.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced controls engineer who’s ready to move into a leadership capacity while remaining close to the technology.

• Lead and mentor a team of up to 4 engineers supporting Energy automation and service projects.
• Oversee design, programming, troubleshooting, and commissioning of PLC‑based control systems and SCADA/HMI platforms (Rockwell/Allen‑Bradley PLCs; AVEVA/Wonderware, Ignition, or similar SCADA software).
• Manage multiple concurrent projects—balancing field work, team oversight, and customer engagement.
• Serve as the main client contact for assigned projects, ensuring technical quality, timeliness, and budget alignment.
• Conduct and support Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), site commissioning, and post‑installation service.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, engineering leads, and field service teams to maintain seamless execution.
• Drive improvements in processes, technical standards, and team efficiency.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engineering (or equivalent technical experience).
• 8+ years of control systems engineering experience, including design, programming, and commissioning.
• Expertise in PLC programming (Allen‑Bradley preferred; open to Siemens or other major platforms).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA systems such as AVEVA, Ignition, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated success leading and developing engineering teams or acting as a technical lead.
• Strong troubleshooting, communication, and client‑facing skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities calmly and effectively.
• Valid driver’s license and authorization to work in the U.S.

Hybrid schedule with local client base and minimal overnight travel.

• Leadership opportunity within a high‑performing, growth‑focused team.
• Ability to shape service operations and mentor the next generation of engineers.
• Supportive culture emphasizing trust, collaboration, and professional development.
• Competitive pay, performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.
• This role is based in the Northern Virginia / Washington, DC Metro area. Relocation assistance may be available for candidates moving from outside the region.

• Competitive salary and annual bonuses
• 401(k) with company match
• Comprehensive healthcare with multiple low‑cost options
• Paid Time Off (PTO) for rest and recharge
• Tuition reimbursement and in‑house technical training
• Casual dress environment and strong sense of community

At Thermo Systems, we model integrity, trust, and collaboration every day.

• Supporting our colleagues and celebrating shared achievements.
• Going the extra mile for our customers through proactive communication and ownership.
• Seeking continuous improvement in everything we do.

Thermo Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO). We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.

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