Lead Controls Engineer

Depatie Fluid Power Company•Portage, MI

5d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and is eager to learn, adapt, and lead. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical foundation in industrial automation who is motivated to grow. We’re looking for someone with initiative, work ethic, and a passion for continuous learning. You’ll lead the design and delivery of control systems, PLC/HMI programming, robotics integration, and industrial automation solutions, while mentoring team members and collaborating cross-functionally.

Requirements

Strong initiative and willingness to take ownership
Eagerness to learn new technologies, platforms, and tools
Ability to adapt quickly in a dynamic, project-based environment
Comfortable working with and learning new software and automation technologies
Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting mindset
Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
3–10 years of experience in controls engineering or industrial automation
Experience with at least two of the following: PLC Programming (Rockwell / Siemens / etc.), HMI Development, SCADA Systems (Ignition, AVEVA, GE, etc.), Robotics Integration, Motion Control / VFDs, Embedded Systems, Control Panel Design / Electrical Schematics
Familiarity with industrial networks and protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet)
Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar tools
Willingness to travel for commissioning and client support

Responsibilities

Lead controls engineering projects from concept through design, programming, testing, and commissioning
Design and develop PLC programs, HMI/SCADA systems, and embedded controls
Create electrical schematics, panel layouts, and Bills of Materials (BOMs)
Integrate industrial robots, motion control systems, and VFDs
Specify and implement process instrumentation and control components
Install, commission, and troubleshoot systems at customer sites
Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and project management teams
Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering best practices
Support Sales with project estimates, timelines, and technical input
Manage project schedules, budgets, and customer communication
Research and implement new technologies in automation and controls
Travel domestically to support projects across company locations and customer sites throughout the U.S.