Senior Automation Controls Engineer
About The Position
At Lanco, no two machines are the same. We design and build fully custom automation systems for some of the most demanding industries in the world such as medical, defense, and electronics. Our equipment runs in manufacturing facilities across the globe. As our Senior Automation Controls Engineer, you'll own the controls from code to commissioning, through writing the logic, integrating the systems, and standing behind your work when the customer runs acceptance testing. This is a role for someone who has done it before - PLCs, HMIs, robots, vision systems, servo motion. If you’re someone who wants to do it at a higher level, on more interesting machines, with a team that’s genuinely engaged in the work, then this is the place for you. Unlike salaried roles at other companies, this position is hourly with overtime pay, so when projects run long or travel takes you on-site, your paycheck reflects it.
Requirements
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in controls programming or industrial automation.
- Strong PLC programming skills - ladder logic required; structured text or function block a plus.
- Hands-on experience with HMI/SCADA development; Rockwell PanelView or FactoryTalk Optix experience is a plus.
- Familiarity with industrial communication networks: Ethernet/IP, Modbus, ProfiNet, DeviceNet, or IO-Link.
- Experience integrating robots, vision systems, servo/stepper motion control, safety circuits, and AC/DC electrical systems.
- Ability to read electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation; basic understanding of pneumatic systems.
- Comfortable troubleshooting complex control systems independently, including in customer-facing and field environments.
- A.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or a related technical field; or equivalent hands-on experience. B.S. preferred.
Nice To Haves
- structured text or function block a plus
- Rockwell PanelView or FactoryTalk Optix experience is a plus
- B.S. preferred
Responsibilities
- Own the controls programming on automation projects with PLC ladder logic, HMI development, and system integration from build through customer acceptance.
- Integrate and commission complex technologies including robots (6-axis, SCARA, Cartesian), vision systems (Cognex, Keyence), sensors, drives, and motion control.
- Test machine sequences and verify that physical components (switches, actuators, cylinders) are wired and operating correctly before deployment.
- Work closely with mechanical, electrical, and design teams throughout the full machine lifecycle.
- Travel to customer sites for Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) execution, field updates, and occasional emergency service - travel time is compensated at your hourly rate plus a travel incentive.
- Maintain clear documentation for wire lists, calibration data, technical specs, and machine manuals customers can actually use.
- Mentor and support electrical and mechanical technicians during builds and debug.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of processes, documentation, and ISO procedures.
Benefits
- ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
- 401(k) with company match
- Health, dental, and life insurance
- Short and long-term disability
- Paid time off & paid holidays
- Paid parental leave
- Tuition reimbursement
- Overtime pay means your extra hours are always compensated
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Associate degree
