Step into a senior role where your controls expertise directly shapes safe, reliable, and efficient manufacturing operations. This contract opportunity offers the autonomy to lead complex automation projects while partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, compliant solutions. You’ll be the go-to technical authority for PLC-based process control, safety systems, and electrical design in a fast-paced industrial environment.

About the Role:
As a Senior Controls Engineer, you will lead the design, programming, and implementation of industrial control systems across multiple projects. You will drive process automation improvements, ensure compliance with relevant standards, and provide advanced troubleshooting support for existing systems. Your work will have a direct impact on plant performance, safety, and maintainability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and program PLC-based control systems using Rockwell, Siemens, and related platforms for new and existing process equipment.
• Configure, tune, and optimize PID control loops to improve process stability, product quality, and throughput.
• Select, specify, and integrate instrumentation (sensors, transmitters, analyzers) into control systems, including calibration procedures and documentation.
• Design and review electrical and control panel layouts to meet NFPA 70/79, UL, NEC, and customer specifications.
• Develop and implement machine safety systems, including safety PLCs, interlocks, guarding, and emergency stop circuits, aligned with OSHA and applicable standards.
• Troubleshoot complex controls and electrical issues on production equipment, providing root cause analysis and implementing long-term corrective actions.
• Create and maintain control system documentation, including I/O lists, schematics, functional specifications, and operating procedures.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and project teams to commission systems, support start-ups, and train plant personnel on new controls and safety features.

Key Requirements:

• Significant hands-on experience as a Controls or Automation Engineer in industrial or manufacturing environments.
• Advanced proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting (Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and related platforms).
• Strong background in process automation, including PID loop tuning and control strategy implementation.
• Demonstrated experience with instrumentation selection, calibration, and integration into PLC/DCS systems.
• Proven capability in designing electrical and control panels compliant with NFPA 70/79, UL, and NEC.
• Solid understanding of machine safety systems, safety PLCs, and OSHA requirements for industrial equipment.
• Ability to read and develop electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control system drawings.
• Track record of managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and delivering solutions with minimal supervision.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with HMI/SCADA configuration and integration with PLC systems.
• Familiarity with industrial networks and communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Modbus, etc.).
• Exposure to validation, FAT/SAT, and commissioning in regulated or high-reliability environments.
• Experience with drive systems, motion control, and servo integration.
• Background in data collection, historian systems, or basic MES integration.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls/Automation Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Associate degree in a technical field with substantial relevant experience may be considered.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or other industry certifications in controls/automation are a plus.
• Formal training or certification in Rockwell or Siemens PLC platforms is preferred.

If you’re a senior-level controls professional ready to lead complex automation projects on a contract basis, apply now to take on a role where your expertise will be highly valued and immediately impactful.