Senior Controls Engineer – Automation & Process Systems

Hitachi•Nashville, TN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer with strong hands-on experience in programming, debugging, and commissioning automated systems. This role focuses on PLC and HMI programming, robotics and vision integration, and continuous process automation across a range of complex equipment. You will be deeply involved in building and refining control systems, supporting machine startups, and solving challenging automation problems in collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams. The position is primarily technical and execution-focused, with significant time spent on system development, troubleshooting, and on-site deployment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience (two years of relevant work experience for each year of academic study), OR an Associate’s degree with 2+ years of related experience.
10+ years of experience in controls engineering, automation, or related technical disciplines.
2+ years of experience leading technical projects, with ownership of technical decisions and execution.
Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and influence engineers, supporting technical excellence and career progression.
Strong breadth and depth of experience with industrial automation technologies, systems, and industry practices.
Proven ability to identify systemic issues and implement improvements that increase department efficiency and engineering effectiveness.
Experience in the automation industry; prior JR Automation experience is strongly preferred.
Proven collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines to solve complex, system-level problems.
Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting continuous processes in automated manufacturing environments.
Ability to read and interpret P&IDs is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead the full controls lifecycle for new automation builds, from initial concept and system definition through programming, machine power-up, debugging, commissioning, and final acceptance.
Design and program control systems from the ground up, including PLC logic, HMI applications, robotics integration, vision systems, and SCADA solutions for new and custom automated equipment.
Design controls equipment and architectures to meet customer requirements, performance standards, and application specifications.
Support multiple automation projects concurrently while maintaining focus on technical quality, schedule execution, and customer requirements.
Lead and collaborate with cross-functional technical teams throughout the project lifecycle to ensure successful execution and integration.
Serve as a technical expert within the department, providing guidance on controls architecture, programming approaches, and complex automation challenges.
Partner with engineering leadership to support technical development, training, and continuous improvement within the engineering organization.
Travel up to 25% to customer sites and company locations to support commissioning, troubleshooting, and project execution.