Senior Automation Engineer

Hoffman & Hoffman Inc • Raleigh, NC

6h

About The Position

A 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. This individual acts as the primary technical point of contact for projects, overseeing full automation packages that include control system design, HMI/SCADA development, PLC/DDC programming, and field commissioning. A Senior Automation Engineer balances high-level strategic planning with hands-on technical execution, ensuring all deliverables meet quality standards and project schedules while mentoring junior engineering staff.

Requirements

• Advanced level 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 is required.
• Proficient in PLC or DDC programming for advanced projects.
• Advanced level understanding of industrial protocols and OT network design.
• Ability to review and approve executed functional test plans for control panels and building automation control systems.
• A proactive mindset for diagnosing high-stakes infrastructure and automation challenges through measured strategic debugging.
• High level of ownership over technical quality, project scope of work, project schedule, and project financial awareness.
• Exceptional skills for coordinating across internal disciplines and presenting complex technical progress to external stakeholders.
• Ability to train and mentor junior engineers, perform technical code reviews, and drive team collaboration.
• 4–8+ years of experience in industrial automation, instrumentation and controls, PLC/DDC programming, and control system architecture.
• Demonstrated leadership experience on multiple small scale or medium scale projects.
• Broad exposure to multiple automation platforms, building automation projects, multi-system integration, industrial networking architecture, and field commissioning.

Nice To Haves

• Basic scripting ability in Python or Java is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree (preferred) or Associate degree in any of the following fields: 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.

Responsibilities

• Design complex control system drawings.
• Build complex 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 like VFDs and packaged skids.
• Lead bench testing, Factory Acceptance Testing, and site startup activities. Travel may be required. Expect up to 30% travel, including regular overnight stays for non-local client sites and up to 100% travel to local client sites.
• Develop all types of project documentation.
• Provide constructive feedback on control system designs, HMI/SCADA builds, PLC/DDC code, and documentation produced by peers.
• Follow all office and site safety procedures and participate in mandatory safety training (e.g., OSHA-10).
• Ensure all document and code deliverables meet established quality standards.
• Assist in estimating project execution schedules, monitoring project financials, and tracking deficiencies through resolution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree