Lead Controls Engineer - Robotics & Machine

CKC Automation LLC•Benicia, CA

63d•$100,000 - $135,000•Onsite

About The Position

CKC Automation is seeking a Lead Controls Engineer (Robotics and Machine) to lead the design, development, testing, and installation of control systems for industrial environments, focusing on industrial robots and custom automated machinery. This role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, mentoring junior engineers, providing technical leadership, and supporting the sales team with project estimates. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of machine and robot design and programming, with experience in PLC, HMI, SCADA, robotics, VFDs, motion control, and control panel design.

Requirements

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
3–10 years of experience, with two or more of the following: PLC programming, HMI programming, SCADA systems, robotic systems, VFDs, motion control, and control panel design.
Knowledge of, or interest in, industrial processes, mechanical systems, and manufacturing equipment.
Understanding of networking and communication protocols, e.g., EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet.
Strong communication (oral, written, and listening) and collaboration skills.
Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, with an aptitude for researching unfamiliar topics.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities.

Responsibilities

Lead the execution of control systems projects, from requirement gathering, design, and development through testing, deployment, and maintenance.
Program and integrate industrial robots into automated control systems, including motion coordination and safety systems.
Lead project meetings on a weekly or as-needed basis with customers and internal teams.
Issue and maintain project schedules, advising management and customers when there are schedule issues.
Design and develop software for custom automated machines, industrial robots, and other industrial control systems.
Identify control system components and develop a Bill of Materials to meet project requirements.
Understand panel layout drawings and electrical schematics.
Specify process instrumentation; install, commission, and maintain systems at CKC and in client facilities.
Mentor junior engineers, provide technical leadership, and drive the development of best practices across projects.
Evaluate new technologies and tools that could enhance the company’s offerings.
Pursue skills and/or certifications on mainstream platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Beckhoff, Ignition, AVEVA, and GE.
Complete project management tasks such as billings, hours reports, forecasts, and budget management on time.
Ensure that projects are completed within scope, timeline, and budget, while maintaining high quality standards and high customer satisfaction.
Consistently and reliably communicate status updates on assigned tasks to team members, project managers, and customers.
Acknowledge communications within 4 business hours.
Spend at least 85% of working hours on billable work.
Write clear documentation for customers and team members.
Support Sales with reasonable project cost and labor estimates during the proposal process.
Encourage dormant or unresponsive customers with follow-up communications.