Job Description

RCS Staffing has an immediate need for a Principal Control Systems Engineer in Denver, CO, Chicago, IL, or Remote (up to 10% travel required). This is a full-time direct-hire Hybrid/Remote assignment with our client. This position offers a competitive package including benefits, vacation and holidays.

Overview of YOUR role as a Principal Control Systems Engineer

As a Principal Control Systems Engineer, you will serve as a technical specialist and leader with deep expertise in process instrumentation and control systems. You will provide strategic direction for control systems design across power plants, microgrid control systems, municipal water/wastewater systems, industrial automation, and combined heat and power (CHP) systems. This role requires comprehensive understanding of advanced control theories to lead complex projects and solve unique technical challenges.

As a Principal Control Systems Engineer YOU will:

· Lead technical responsibility for evaluation and design of plant control and instrumentation systems including DCS and PLCs
· Interpret, organize, and execute complex control systems engineering assignments with significant project impact
· Develop innovative control system architectures and recommend design enhancements
· Determine client requirements and develop comprehensive technical documents including specifications, P&IDs, I/O lists, and procurement specifications
· Sign and seal control systems engineering plans and documents in accordance with professional standards
· Serve as primary technical controls liaison with clients on projects
· Lead client communications and attend onsite and offsite meetings
· Participate in bid evaluation, construction support, and commissioning activities
· Assist in pricing, estimating, and scoping for proposed control systems projects
· Develop comprehensive proposal documents for new projects
· Identify opportunities for enhanced control system solutions

YOU are the ideal Principal Control Systems Engineer candidate if you have:

· Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from ABET-accredited university (required)
· Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) license (required)
· Minimum 12+ years of progressive experience in control systems engineering (required)
· Extensive experience with DCS and PLC design, implementation, and commissioning (required)
· Demonstrated track record of successfully leading complex control systems projects from concept through commissioning
· Experience with municipal, industrial, and power generation control systems applications
· Deep understanding of process instrumentation, control theory, and automation principles
· Proficiency with control system design software, PLC/DCS programming platforms, and HMI/SCADA systems
· Comprehensive knowledge of industry standards (ISA, IEC, NFPA, NEC)
· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills
· Strong leadership capabilities with multidisciplinary team experience
· Proven ability to build and maintain client relationships
· Business acumen including proposal development and cost estimating

It’s a BONUS if you have:

· Advanced degree in Control Systems, Automation, or related field
· Experience with microgrid or CHP systems
· Knowledge of emerging technologies in control systems
· Published technical papers or presentations
· International project experience

About Our CLIENT

Our client is a leading engineering firm specializing in substation design and electrical infrastructure projects. They are committed to delivering high-quality substation designs for utility and industrial clients. With a focus on technical excellence, client relationships, and professional development, they provide a hybrid work environment where substation engineers can lead meaningful infrastructure projects.

Who WE Are

RCS Staffing is a certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) specializing in the recruitment of professionals for best-of-class companies throughout the United States. Since 1994, RCS recruits top talent for direct hire, temp-to-perm and contract staffing positions and provides customized payroll services. Our Recruiting Specialties consist of all Engineering Disciplines, Project Management, Project Controls, Information Technology, Energy Efficiency and Business Professionals.

RCS is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. RCS recruits, hires, and promotes for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship status, disability, military status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, genetic information or age. All terms and conditions of employment such as compensation, benefits, work assignment, availability of facilities and privileges of employment are administered on the same basis of equality.