Senior Controls Engineer PLC Automation / Industrial Controls

Senior Controls Engineer – PLC Automation & System Integration

Location: Orlando, FL (100% Onsite)
Compensation: $110,000 – $140,000 base + annual bonus + ESOP ownership

Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, programming, and commissioning of complex automation and control systems for large-scale projects in manufacturing and entertainment environments. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on PLC-based system design, electrical/control integration, and on-site startup support. Ideal candidates bring 8–10+ years of controls engineering experience and the ability to independently design systems from concept through commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

• Design complete control systems from scratch (hardware, software, networking, and architecture)
• Develop PLC/DCS control logic using ladder logic and structured text (Allen-Bradley, Siemens preferred)
• Perform electrical panel design, power calculations, load analysis, and component selection
• Create system documentation, including control narratives, schematics, network layouts, and test plans
• Support system integration, installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting
• Conduct control system analysis, including short circuit, load flow, harmonics, and safety assessments
• Design safety-critical and redundant control systems (SIL/PL concepts preferred)
• Manage vendor scope and ensure compliance with engineering standards, safety codes, and client requirements
• Perform on-site troubleshooting, diagnostics, and root cause analysis
• Support multi-disciplinary engineering teams and act as technical lead on projects

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field (controls experience required)
• 8–10+ years of Controls / Automation Engineering experience
• Strong PLC programming experience from scratch (Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens preferred)
• Experience with industrial control systems, I/O, field devices, and Ethernet-based distributed systems
• Hands-on experience with commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting
• Ability to read and develop electrical/control schematics (AutoCAD preferred)
• Strong understanding of industrial automation systems and control architecture
• Excellent communication and ability to work in multi-disciplinary teams

Preferred Experience

• Safety-critical systems (ASTM standards, SIL/PL, attractions, or regulated industries)
• AutoCAD for controls or panel design documentation
• Multi-language PLC programming (Structured Text, C++, VB)
• Experience in manufacturing, automation, or ride/entertainment systems

Additional Details

• Travel: Up to 30% (typically ~10%)
• Work Environment: On-site at client/project locations (industrial & engineering environments)
• Schedule: May require off-shift support during installation/commissioning

Why Join Us

• 100% employee-owned ESOP company
• ENR Top 500 engineering firm with 40+ years of stability
• Strong culture of technical ownership and long-term career growth
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• 401(k) + Profit Sharing + ESOP
• PTO & Paid Holidays
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Life & Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program