Senior Automation Engineer

Hoffman & Hoffman•Raleigh, NC

About The Position

The Senior Automation Engineer is a technical leadership role responsible for the end-to-end design, implementation, and delivery of complex automation projects across multi-system and plant-level environments. The role serves as the primary technical point of contact for projects and oversees complete automation packages, including control system design, HMI/SCADA development, PLC/DDC programming, and field commissioning. It combines strategic planning with hands-on technical execution to ensure deliverables meet quality standards and project schedules while mentoring junior engineering staff. The engineer designs complex control systems, develops operator graphics and PLC/DDC logic, integrates third-party equipment, and leads testing and commissioning activities. The role also covers project documentation, peer review, safety and compliance, quality control, and support for project schedule and financial tracking. Travel may be required, including up to 30% travel with regular overnight stays for non-local client sites and up to 100% travel to local client sites.

Requirements

4–8+ years of experience in industrial automation, instrumentation and controls, PLC/DDC programming, and control system architecture.
Demonstrated leadership experience on multiple small- or medium-scale projects.
Broad exposure to multiple automation platforms, building automation projects, multi-system integration, industrial networking architecture, and field commissioning.
Advanced understanding of HVAC and building automation systems (BAS).
Ability to design complex control system projects and review and approve all types of system documentation.
Ability to design complex HMI and SCADA solutions with minimal direction.
Knowledge of SQL/database concepts.
Proficiency in PLC or DDC programming for advanced projects.
Advanced understanding of industrial protocols and OT network design.
Ability to review and approve completed functional test plans for control panels and building automation control systems.
Proactive problem-solving and strategic debugging skills.
Strong ownership of technical quality, project scope, project schedule, and project financial awareness.
Exceptional communication skills for coordinating across internal disciplines and presenting technical progress to external stakeholders.
Ability to train and mentor junior engineers, conduct technical code reviews, and drive team collaboration.
Previous experience as an HBT Automation Engineer, or an associate degree or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline. Trade school certificates or equivalent technical training combined with relevant experience may also be considered.

Nice To Haves

Basic scripting ability in Python or Java.
A bachelor's degree in a relevant technical discipline is preferred.

Responsibilities

Design complex control system drawings and projects.
Build complex HMI/SCADA operator graphics using reusable or custom-generated components, ensuring data historization and reporting requirements are met.
Develop complex PLC/DDC logic, create custom code elements, and integrate third-party equipment such as VFDs and packaged skids.
Lead bench testing, Factory Acceptance Testing, and site startup activities.
Develop project documentation.
Provide constructive feedback on peers’ control system designs, HMI/SCADA builds, PLC/DDC code, and documentation.
Follow office and site safety procedures and participate in mandatory safety training, such as OSHA-10.
Ensure document and code deliverables meet established quality standards.
Assist in estimating project execution schedules, monitor project financials, and track deficiencies through resolution.
Train and mentor junior engineers, perform technical code reviews, and promote team collaboration.