Manager, Industrial Controls Engineering

What We Need

Symbotic is seeking a Manager of Industrial Controls Engineering to lead a team of Controls Engineers responsible for developing, testing, and maintaining PLC-based control software for industrial automation systems. Reporting to the Director of Industrial Control Systems R&D, this role combines hands-on technical leadership with people management, project delivery accountability, and cross-functional collaboration.

What You'll Do

• Directly manage a team of 6-8 PLC R&D Controls Engineers, providing day-to-day guidance and technical direction.
• Own delivery of PLC software milestones across multiple projects and programs.
• Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, goal setting, and career development planning.
• Communicate status, risks, and technical tradeoffs clearly to stakeholders.
• Lead prototyping, testing, validation, and documentation of new control system concepts and electrical designs.
• Ensure high-quality, reliable, and maintainable PLC software design.
• Promote best practices in modular programming, version control, diagnostics, and documentation.
• Drive adoption of AI assisted programming, simulation, Digital Twins, and automated testing.
• Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for complex or high-impact issues.

What You'll Need

• Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years in industrial automation, controls engineering, and people management responsibility.
• Hands-on expertise with Rockwell Automation PLC platforms, Motion Control, Safety PLC Systems, OT networking, and industrial communication protocols.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA development, preferably Inductive Automation Ignition software.
• Exposure to AI assisted PLC code development, simulation tools, Digital Twins, and automated PLC testing.
• Ability to balance hands-on technical work with people leadership responsibilities.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

Our Environment

• Up to 60% of travel may be required. Employees must have a valid driver's license and the ability to drive and/or fly to client locations and company HQ.
• Up to 25% travel may be required for employees located in proximity to our HQ in Wilmington, MA.
• The employee is responsible for owning a credit card and managing expenses personally to be reimbursed on a bi-weekly basis.

Pay

The base range for this position in the posted location is $149,000.00 - $204,600.00 however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Benefits

The compensation package includes medical, dental, vision, disability, 401K, PTO and/or other benefits.