Automation & Controls Engineering Manager

Audubon is seeking an Automation & Controls Engineering Manager to join our team in Lake Charles, LA.

About the role

The Automation & Controls Engineering Manager will manage a team responsible for controls and automation engineering assignments, including programming, HMI, SCADA, and specification of related control system equipment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the overall development, productivity, and guidance of all team members.
• Interact and communicate effectively with direct reports, team members, clients, subcontractors, vendors, and other consultants.
• Set realistic expectations and ensure assigned projects are completed according to schedule and within budget.
• Ensure adherence to company quality standards and engineering checking/approval procedures.
• Perform or assign checking of engineering drawings and mathematical calculations produced by direct reports.
• Promote and enforce standards, methods, and procedures for control system design, PLC/DCS programs, HMI configuration, server system design, and industrial IT.
• Oversee adherence to safe design practices while identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Act as a high-level technical lead or project manager to maintain contact with staff and customers.
• Assist in and coordinate the development of internal design guidelines, specifications, and design control procedures.
• Create or assist in developing client proposals, including scope development and man-hour estimates.
• Assess project feasibility by evaluating materials, costs, and time requirements using engineering and advanced mathematics.
• Prepare or direct the preparation and modification of reports, specifications, plans, and construction schedules.
• Analyze strategies, equations, and applications to ensure appropriate procedures are applied.
• Resolve design, development, and project-related issues.
• Manage client relationships and develop repeat business opportunities.
• Compile discipline-specific man-hour estimates and Total Installed Cost estimates based on client-provided project scope.
• Manage and forecast man-hour requirements and schedules for discipline-specific project scope.
• Assess project challenges and risks, including construction costs, regulations, environmental hazards, and other factors.
• Implement risk management initiatives and appropriate mitigation steps.
• Oversee hiring, performance evaluations, salary decisions, grievances, and disciplinary actions.
• Approve time entry and expense reports in accordance with company/client policies.
• Provide advice, best practices, and subject matter expertise to resolve complex issues.
• Set objectives, priorities, and allocate resources within a group or project; establish work quality expectations and deadlines.
• Comply with all company and client health, safety, security, and environmental (HSSE) standards and regulations.
• Participate in hazard identification and observation programs; report unsafe acts, conditions, or incidents.
• Ensure safe working conditions and required safety training for staff.
• Report occupational incidents and assist in investigations, including implementing corrective actions.
• Prepare advanced-level specifications for project assignments, including performance requirements and design codes.
• Perform engineering calculations and develop analysis models for complex projects.
• Review and/or approve vendor drawings for compliance with project specifications.
• Conduct technical and feasibility studies, including site investigations.
• Interact with drafting/design groups to develop and review engineering drawings.
• Visit job sites to evaluate project requirements and conditions.
• Inspect vendor facilities to ensure equipment compliance with specifications.
• Develop, review, and/or approve conceptual and detailed engineering design packages.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (required).
• Bachelor’s Degree from ABET Accredited Institution (preferred).
• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering (preferred).
• PE License (optional).
• Field experience (required).
• Industry experience (required).
• 15+ years’ experience in Industrial Automation and/or Control Systems.
• Large multi-discipline project lead experience (preferred).
• Prior supervisory/managerial experience within an engineering environment (preferred).
• Working knowledge of instrumented control and safety systems (preferred).
• Working knowledge of control systems and electrical design codes (ISA, NEC, API, etc.) (preferred).
• Ability to make decisions and solve problems proactively.
• Ability to comprehend instructions and request clarification as needed.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to organize and direct projects to completion.