Senior Controls Engineer

Valknut • Nashville, TN

14h

About The Position

This senior technical role focuses on the design, development, optimisation, commissioning, and support of industrial control systems across complex manufacturing environments. The engineer leads control-system work from concept through startup, with responsibility for safe, reliable, and efficient automated manufacturing lines. The role serves as the primary technical expert for PLC, HMI/SCADA, robotics integration, and safety systems, collaborating with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to improve uptime, throughput, and compliance across multiple projects. This is a contract opportunity in Nashville.

Requirements

• Extensive hands-on PLC programming and troubleshooting experience with major platforms such as Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix or Siemens S7/TIA Portal.
• Proven experience developing and integrating HMI/SCADA systems such as FactoryTalk or WinCC in manufacturing environments.
• Strong background in industrial robotics programming and integration, such as Fanuc, ABB, or KUKA.
• Expertise in control-system design, including I/O specification, network architecture, and panel design.
• Proficiency in reading and creating electrical schematics and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD or E-Plan.
• Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols and control networks, including EtherNet/IP, Profinet, or Modbus.
• Track record of systematic root cause analysis and advanced diagnostics on complex automation systems.
• Practical knowledge of machine safety systems and compliance with NFPA 70E, IEC/ANSI, and OSHA standards.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control/Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field; an associate degree in a relevant technical discipline may be considered with significant controls experience.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in high-volume or continuous-process manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with MES, historian, or data analytics tools integrated with control systems.
• Exposure to motion control, servo systems, and advanced drive configurations.
• Experience leading small project teams or coordinating contractors during installation and commissioning.
• Ability to document standards, create functional specifications, and contribute to control-system best practices.
• Professional certifications in automation, robotics, or safety, such as TÜV Functional Safety, ISA, Rockwell, or Siemens certifications.
• Formal training in NFPA 70E and machine safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, and modify PLC control logic for new and existing manufacturing equipment.
• Develop, configure, and integrate HMI and SCADA systems for operator interfaces and data acquisition.
• Program, commission, and integrate industrial robots and associated control hardware and software.
• Create and update control-system architectures, electrical schematics, and panel layouts using AutoCAD or E-Plan.
• Troubleshoot control systems, drives, networks, and field devices; perform root cause analysis to resolve complex issues.
• Implement and validate machine safety circuits, interlocks, and safety PLC logic in accordance with applicable standards and requirements.
• Lead control-system commissioning, testing, and startup, including on-site installation and ramp-up support.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define control strategies, document system changes, and support continuous improvement initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior