Senior Controls Design Engineer - PLC

Job Description

#### Job Description

Step into a senior role where your PLC expertise shapes complex automation solutions for high-profile industrial clients across Ohio. You'll join a technically strong engineering team delivering custom control systems, from concept through commissioning, in environments that demand reliability, safety, and precision.

About the Role:  

In this position, you will lead the design and implementation of industrial control systems, with a focus on PLC, HMI/SCADA, and motion control architectures. You will translate functional specifications into robust, compliant control solutions, overseeing the full lifecycle from design and documentation to testing and site support. Your work will directly impact system performance, safety, and maintainability for a diverse portfolio of automation projects.

Key Responsibilities:

* Develop, program, and debug PLC control logic using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell and Siemens platforms for new and existing automation systems.
* Design, configure, and integrate HMI/SCADA applications, including screen development, alarming, data logging, and user access control.
* Create and update electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD and/or EPLAN, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and standards.
* Engineer and tune motion control and servo systems, including axis configuration, motion profiles, and synchronization with PLC logic.
* Design and implement industrial communication networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Modbus), including device integration, addressing schemes, and network diagnostics.
* Ensure control system designs meet NFPA 70, NFPA 79, OSHA, and relevant safety standards, including risk assessments and safety circuit implementation.
* Lead project engineering activities, including scope definition, task planning, progress reporting, and coordination with mechanical, electrical, and software teams.
* Support system testing, FAT/SAT, commissioning, and troubleshooting at customer sites, providing technical guidance to internal teams and clients.

Key Requirements:

* Extensive hands-on experience developing PLC programs on Allen-Bradley/Rockwell platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000) and Siemens (Step 7/TIA Portal).
* Proven track record in HMI/SCADA development and integration, including experience with major platforms (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, or similar).
* Strong background in designing and interpreting electrical schematics and control panel layouts using AutoCAD and/or EPLAN.
* Demonstrated experience with motion control and servo systems, including configuration, tuning, and integration with PLCs.
* Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols and architectures, particularly EtherNet/IP, Profibus, and Modbus.
* In-depth knowledge of NFPA 70, NFPA 79, OSHA, and machine safety principles as applied to industrial control systems.
* Proven ability to manage engineering tasks within project timelines, including prioritizing work, coordinating with stakeholders, and reporting status.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and interface directly with customers.

Desirable Skills:

* Experience with safety PLCs, safety relays, and functional safety concepts (e.g., SIL, PL, performance levels).
* Background in integrating robotics, vision systems, or advanced automation technologies into control systems.
* Familiarity with data collection, reporting, and integration with higher-level systems (MES, ERP, historians).
* Experience in commissioning large-scale automation projects, including international or multi-site deployments.
* Exposure to regulated or highly standardized industries such as automotive, food \& beverage, or pharmaceuticals.

Qualifications:

* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
* Associate degree with substantial additional experience in industrial controls may be considered for highly qualified candidates.
* Professional certifications related to PLCs, automation, or industrial networking (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, or equivalent vendor certifications) are preferred.
* Valid driver's license and ability to travel to client sites as required for commissioning and support.

If you're a controls design engineer ready to take ownership of complex automation projects, submit your profile to explore this opportunity further.