Lead Automation Controls Engineer

Location: Tempe, AZ • Travel: 25%–50% (Domestic and International)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Automation Controls Engineer III to lead the planning, design, programming, and implementation of PLC/HMI and/or PC-based control systems. In this advanced role, you will collaborate on customized automation solutions for a variety of industries, balancing customer needs, technical execution, and project budgets/schedules while serving as a technical expert and strong communicator within multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop cutting-edge control systems based on customer requirements and engineering principles.
• Interpret client needs, address technical challenges, and deliver solutions on budget and schedule.
• Program PLCs (Rockwell, Siemens), HMIs, and PC (.Net) applications from start to finish.
• Develop and test comprehensive software solutions for robotics, vision systems, and machine automation.
• Lead or participate in system commissioning, troubleshooting, and support both onsite and at customer facilities.
• Oversee project workflow, set and communicate expectations, and ensure timely, high-quality delivery.
• Collaborate closely with management, clients, and cross-functional teams for seamless project execution.
• Support and mentor junior engineers, help onboard new staff, and contribute to continuous improvement of engineering practices and documentation.
• Stay current with new technologies and industry best practices, introducing innovative solutions to our systems.

Requirements

• BS in an applicable engineering field or equivalent demonstrated experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in industrial automation design and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in PLC/HMI/PC programming and troubleshooting (Rockwell and/or Siemens required).
• Competency with servo/AC motion control, pneumatic design, industrial robots (Fanuc, UR, ABB), and machine vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence).
• Experience integrating and commissioning safety and industrial communication systems; familiarity with UL, NFPA, and CE standards.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD for design/drafting and MS Office Suite.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills; capable of leading meetings and representing engineering concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong problem-solver who can manage multiple projects concurrently with minimal supervision.
• Willing and able to travel (25%–50%), including some international assignments.
• Leadership potential with the ability to contribute to recruitment and training of new team members.
• Customer-focused, collaborative, self-motivated, and committed to continuous self-improvement.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, and a legal plan.
• Retirement savings plan and service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year).
• Transit spending account and paid sick leave under applicable state or local plans.