JOB – Senior Controls Engineer
LOCATION – Clearwater, FL
SALARY - $100,000 - $120,000
TERM – Direct Hire
INDUSTRY – Industrial Automation / Custom Machinery
A growing industrial machinery manufacturer is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer to lead the development and implementation of control systems for complex automated equipment. This is a hands-on, high-impact role working across engineering, production, and service teams to design, program, and support PLC-based systems from concept through commissioning.
The Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer will ideally have the following attributes:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Programming, Industrial Automation, or a related field.
- 5–7 years of experience in PLC and HMI programming for automated machinery.
- Expertise with Allen Bradley platforms (Studio 5000, Connected Components Workbench, FactoryTalk) and Schneider Electric tools (EcoStruxure Machine Expert, Vijeo Designer, Zelio Soft).
- Proficiency in programming PLCs using Structured Text, Ladder Logic, and Function Block Diagrams.
- Solid understanding of control system hardware including VFDs, relays, sensors, pneumatics, and analog I/O.
- Strong ability to diagnose and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems.
- Ability to read and interpret schematics, P&IDs, and electrical diagrams.
- Experience with AutoCAD Electrical and knowledge of UL, NEC, and NFPA standards.
- Familiarity with Ethernet/IP and Modbus communication protocols.
- Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 5%) for field support.
The Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer duties will involve:
- Designing, programming, and testing PLCs and HMIs for custom automation equipment.
- Managing projects from initial design through testing and customer acceptance.
- Debugging code, troubleshooting issues, and supporting final system commissioning.
- Documenting software changes and system sequences of operation.
- Collaborating with engineering, shop, and service teams to ensure successful integration and support.
- Providing remote technical support to field technicians for deployed machines.
- Participating in design reviews and continuous improvement of control standards.
- Supporting pre-sales activities with Sales Engineers by reviewing customer requirements.
- Leading the development of system documentation, S.O.P.s, and commissioning protocols.
- Ensuring compliance with company safety procedures and quality standards.
For more information about this Senior Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer role, please apply, or contact Jack Smillie at [email protected] who will be able to provide more details on the opportunity.
Many thanks,
Xpertis