Lead Controls Engineer

Sapience Automation, based in Charleston, SC, is a robotics and automation systems integrator delivering solutions to manufacturers across North America. Recognized as a two-time FANUC Innovative System of the Year finalist (2023 and 2026) and recipient of multiple industry awards, Sapience partners with clients in automotive, aviation, medical, heavy truck, consumer products, food, defense, building materials, and energy industries. We deploy high-performance automation systems—from single robot cells to complex, multi-process production lines—specializing in robotic assembly, machine tending, material handling, painting, palletizing, sealing & dispensing, inspection, welding, laser marking, and traceability. Our solutions integrate custom machine design, advanced end-of-arm tooling, vision systems, and conveyor design. Sapience is an independent operating company within PPC Partners, an employee-owned business with over 3,000 employees, combining small-company flexibility with large-organization infrastructure.

Responsibilities

• PLC / Software Programming
  • Design, develop, and implement PLC programs to control robot systems and other automated systems.
  • Program peripheral devices such as vision systems, RFID controllers, and automated inspection equipment.
  • Execute installation, debugging, and production launch of robot systems during pre-build at Sapience and on-site installations.
  • Test programs during Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) / Modular Build phase at Sapience’s facility.
  • Provide remote support to Sapience team members via remote connection.
  • Proficiency with Allen Bradley PLCs and/or Siemens PLCs is required; experience with other PLCs, MES systems, or robot programming is a plus.
• Control Panel and Automation Electrical & Pneumatic System Design
  • Design control panels, electrical controls, safety hardware, and pneumatic controls for robot systems and automation equipment such as conveyors.
  • Create detailed drawings of system designs.
  • Collaborate with vendors and Sapience’s purchasing department to procure necessary materials.
  • Oversee panel build process (internal or through partner companies) to ensure compliance with specifications.
  • Support engineers during system installation, testing, and debugging.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical and/or E-Plan required.
• General
  • Coordinate site teams and management on project execution.
  • Coordinate subcontractors for controls programming or electrical design support.
  • Create project timelines and hours estimates.
  • Manage activities using the Sapience ERP system (Zoho).
  • Help manage Junior Engineers and provide work assignments.
  • Lead or participate in Engineering Processes such as FMEAs, Safety Plans, Design Reviews, and the System Verification Process.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in the robotics or automation industry.
• Post-high-school degree in a technical discipline.
• Strong written and spoken communication skills.
• Proficiency with PCs and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Troubleshooting and debugging skills related to electrical control systems.

Occasional travel to customer sites is required to support system installations and provide production support.