Lead Automation Engineer

Lead Automation Engineer

Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field with 8–12+ years of relevant industry experience

About the Role:

We're looking for a Lead Automation Engineer to join a dynamic engineering team in Denver, CO. This individual will serve as the technical lead on automation projects, with responsibility for delivering results aligned with scope, budget, and schedule. You’ll play a key role in DCS/PLC programming and SCADA/HMI development, while also mentoring junior engineers and driving high-impact projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and implementation of automation systems including DCS, PLC, and SCADA/HMI

• Serve as the discipline lead on engineering projects, ensuring alignment with project objectives and deadlines

• Interface with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to drive technical excellence

• Apply industry standards, best practices, and engineering methodologies to solve complex technical challenges

• Conduct in-depth evaluations of project requirements, material acceptability, and contractor deliverables

• Coordinate and monitor testing activities, including development of automated testing strategies

• Mentor and oversee junior engineers in testing and project execution

• Contribute to engineering and construction cost estimates

• Collaborate across departments to discuss design and performance considerations

• Maintain working knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, and engineering specifications

• Apply advanced knowledge of control panel wiring, layout, and control system design

• Drive innovation through new testability techniques and automation tools

Preferred Skills:

• Strong proficiency in DCS/PLC/SCADA systems

• Experience in visual basic programming

• Familiarity with automation testing frameworks and methodologies

• Advanced knowledge of control panel design and layout

• Effective communication and leadership skills

• Ability to manage complex problems with minimal supervision