Automation / Controls Engineer Manager
We are seeking a highly versatile Engineering Manager to supervise and assist Automation Engineers in a multifunctional role. The ideal candidate is equally adept at guiding Engineers through troubleshooting breakdowns, resolving service requests, and providing on-site support as they are at taking full ownership of projects --- from initial concept and design through development, testing, commissioning, and final handover.
You will work remotely and collaboratively with the team to design, develop, test, commission, and maintain PLC-based automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, Flow Computers, Loading Controllers, and other industrial devices. This includes creating control narratives, cause-and-effect matrices, data maps, and other customer-required documentation.
Beyond programming and documentation, you will actively troubleshoot wiring, hardware, and programming issues during commissioning, startups, and ongoing operations. You will foster strong internal and external relationships and may provide guidance or training to team members. This is a dynamic role suited to engineers who enjoy both reactive problem-solving and driving complete automation projects end-to-end.
Key Responsibilities:
- Take full ownership of automation projects from conception to completion: develop concepts, engineer solutions, program PLCs/HMIs, coordinate implementation, lead commissioning, and ensure successful handover.
- Provide expert troubleshooting and rapid resolution of breakdowns, service requests, wiring issues, and programming faults --- both remotely and on-site during startups, commissioning, and operational support.
- Deliver engineering and technical support for process control, instrumentation, and measurement technologies.
- Program, configure, and optimize PLC and HMI platforms (including Allen Bradley, GE, Schneider Electric, B&R, and others).
- Install, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain field devices such as transmitters, VFDs, soft-starters, flow computers, and loading controllers.
- Evaluate and debug application programming code to ensure reliability and performance.
- Read and interpret P&IDs, electrical diagrams, and complex drawings; review and provide feedback on design/construction packages.
- Provide on-site services, including system installation oversight, commissioning leadership, and ongoing troubleshooting for industrial applications.
- Apply electronics principles to diagnose equipment malfunctions and restore systems to operation quickly and safely.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years of Supervision in Industrial Automation & Controls Engineering.
- Oil & Gas or Heavy Industrial Automation experience strongly preferred.
- Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, Mechanical, or related field) required.
- Currently possess, or have the ability to obtain, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) from the TSA (must be able to pass a Federal Background Check).
- Proven ability to excel in both full-cycle project ownership (concept to commissioning) and high-pressure troubleshooting/service support.
- Strong knowledge of multiple PLC & HMI platforms; experience with Allen Bradley preferred.
- Strong knowledge of multiple communications protocol adapters; experience with Prosoft's and Moxa's are preferred.
- Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex issues efficiently.
- Clear and effective communication with team members, customers, and stakeholders.
- Experience with Truck load controllers like TMS, Multiloads, or Acculoads is a plus.
- Work-from-home flexibility, with the ability to travel up to 50% within the USA (varies by project requirements).