Manager, Manufacturing Controls Engineering

EOS•East Pittsburgh, PA

About The Position

The Manufacturing Controls Engineering Manager is a strategic, hands-on leader responsible for overseeing a team of industrial controls engineers who design, program, and support PLC-based automation systems across manufacturing operations. The role combines technical expertise in industrial automation with leadership and project management to drive innovation, system reliability, and operational excellence. The manager leads and develops the engineering team, provides technical direction for PLC, HMI/SCADA, and industrial communication systems, and oversees control-system standards, documentation, technology integrations, and upgrades. The role manages automation projects from concept through implementation and commissioning, working with production, maintenance, IT, and external vendors to deliver projects on time and within scope and budget. The position also leads root-cause analysis and resolution of complex control-system issues, supports production troubleshooting and optimization, and ensures compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards. Work takes place in office and factory environments, with limited local and overnight travel in North America.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field.
At least 7 years of experience in industrial automation.
At least 3 years of experience in a management role.
In-depth knowledge of PLC programming, such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Mitsubishi.
Proficiency with HMI/SCADA platforms and industrial communication protocols, including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, and Profibus.
Understanding of machine safety systems, sensors, and actuators.
Proven ability to lead and develop engineering teams.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills for cross-functional collaboration.
Ability to translate complex technical concepts into actionable plans.
Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills for control systems and automation equipment.
Experience with root-cause analysis and continuous-improvement methodologies.
Ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities.
Experience with project-planning tools and methodologies.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree.
Experience in high-volume manufacturing environments.
Familiarity with Industry 4.0 and smart-manufacturing technologies.
PMP certification.
Experience with Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of controls engineers.
Foster a collaborative and innovative engineering culture.
Conduct performance evaluations, set team goals, and support professional development.
Provide expert guidance on PLC programming, HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial communication protocols.
Ensure standardization and documentation of control-system designs and code.
Oversee integration of new automation technologies and upgrades to existing systems.
Manage automation projects from concept through implementation and commissioning.
Collaborate with production, maintenance, IT, and external vendors.
Ensure projects are delivered on time and within scope and budget.
Lead root-cause analysis and resolution of complex control-system issues.
Support production teams with real-time troubleshooting and system optimization.
Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and regulatory standards.