Lead PLC Engineer

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45d

About The Position

The Lead PLC Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for the design, development, and delivery of PLC-based control systems across complex, large-scale projects. This role combines deep hands-on programming expertise with technical leadership, guiding engineering standards, mentoring team members, and ensuring high-quality, consistent execution across projects. You will play a critical role in defining control strategies, standardizing PLC architecture, and ensuring seamless integration with SCADA and facility systems in high-performance environments.

Requirements

7+ years of experience in PLC programming and industrial automation.
Strong expertise with Rockwell / Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000) platforms.
Proven experience designing and implementing control systems for HVAC, central plants, or similar mechanical systems.
Experience with system integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting in field environments.
Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, BACnet/IP, OPC-UA).
Demonstrated ability to lead technical efforts and mentor engineers.
Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience in data centers or high-availability environments.
Familiarity with Ignition SCADA, Kepware, or similar platforms.
Experience with redundant PLC architectures and high-availability systems.
Exposure to BMS/EPMS integration.
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering (or equivalent experience).

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of PLC control systems using platforms such as Rockwell / Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000).
Establish and maintain PLC programming standards, reusable code libraries, naming conventions, and best practices.
Define system architecture including control strategies, I/O structures, network design, and redundancy approaches.
Ensure consistency and quality across all PLC deliverables through design reviews and code validation
Own PLC scope across multiple projects, from design through commissioning and turnover.
Develop and implement control logic for HVAC systems, central plants, and critical infrastructure systems.
Support system integration with SCADA platforms (e.g., Ignition), BMS, and EPMS systems.
Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and field teams to ensure alignment on scope, schedule, and deliverables.
Lead troubleshooting and resolution of complex control system issues during startup and commissioning.
Mentor and guide junior and mid-level PLC engineers, providing technical direction and support.
Review engineering work and provide feedback to ensure adherence to standards and best practices.
Support onboarding and training of new team members.
Participate in client-facing meetings, providing technical expertise and guidance on automation solutions.
Work closely with SCADA engineers, field technicians, and system integrators to ensure seamless system deployment.
Interface with vendors and contractors to support system integration and issue resolution
Drive improvements in engineering processes, tools, and workflows to increase efficiency and scalability.
Identify opportunities to standardize and automate development processes.
Stay current on emerging technologies and trends in PLC programming, industrial automation, and data center systems.