Job at a glance
Job Title: Controls Project Engineer Job Description This role offers an opportunity for a hands-on Controls Project Engineer to lead the design, development, and implementation of Siemens-based automation systems for custom machinery and industrial equipment. You will own the full controls lifecycle, from gathering requirements and defining system architecture through programming, testing, commissioning, and customer startup support.
Working closely with mechanical engineers, electrical build teams, project managers, assembly personnel, and service technicians, you will deliver reliable, safe, and high-performing automation solutions tailored to customer needs. Responsibilities Gather and interpret customer requirements, project specifications, and applicable industry standards to define the controls scope and develop detailed functional specifications, control narratives, sequences of operation, I/O lists, alarm strategies, and system recovery procedures.
Design Siemens-based control architectures, including PLCs, HMIs, distributed I/O, safety controls, industrial networking, variable speed drives, and integration with robotics and machine vision systems. Create, review, and update electrical documentation such as schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and installation drawings to ensure accuracy, clarity, and compliance with standards. Select appropriate controls hardware and develop bills of material, balancing performance, maintainability, budget constraints, and project timelines.
Program, configure, and troubleshoot Siemens PLC and HMI applications using TIA Portal and related software platforms, including programming from scratch when required. Perform system testing, including I/O verification, machine debugging, software validation, and formal acceptance testing to ensure systems meet functional and safety requirements. Support machine startup, commissioning, installation, and production launch activities at customer facilities, providing on-site technical support and adjustments as needed.
Coordinate technical activities and deliverables with customers, vendors, and cross-functional engineering teams to maintain alignment on requirements, schedules, and technical solutions. Maintain complete and organized project documentation, including software backups, training materials, and final deliverables to support long-term system maintenance and upgrades. Develop and follow commissioning procedures and automation best practices to improve consistency, quality, and efficiency across projects.
Act as a self-sufficient, customer-facing engineer who can independently manage tasks, communicate progress, and represent the engineering team professionally during on-site visits and remote interactions. Essential Skills Minimum of 3 years of hands-on Siemens controls experience, including PLC programming, HMI development, commissioning, and troubleshooting. Proven experience in PLC programming from scratch in Siemens environments, including configuration and integration of hardware and software components.
Experience supporting industrial automation, custom machinery, or systems integration projects from concept through implementation. Ability to develop complete controls solutions from initial concept and architecture through implementation, testing, and validation. Associate degree in a technical discipline or equivalent technical experience; a strong foundation in electrical or controls engineering principles.
Knowledge of electrical controls and industrial automation systems, including familiarity with hydraulic and pneumatic systems and machine integration. Experience selecting controls components and developing bills of material while balancing technical requirements with budget and schedule constraints. Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve controls, electrical, and automation issues in both office and field environments.
Effective communication and project coordination skills, with th