Senior Controls Programmer

Lanco Integrated•Westbrook, ME

37d•$80,000 - $100,000•Onsite

About The Position

We’re seeking a Senior Controls Programmer to join our automation team and play a key role in designing, programming, and commissioning control systems for advanced automated machinery. In this role, you’ll take ownership of small to mid-sized projects, working hands-on with PLCs, HMIs, and integrated technologies to deliver reliable, safe, and high-performing solutions for our customers. You’ll collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and engineering teams throughout the full machine lifecycle—from concept and build through validation, installation, and field support. This position is ideal for a technically skilled controls professional who enjoys problem-solving, working independently, and seeing projects through from start to finish.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience); Bachelor’s degree preferred
Minimum of 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) and experience with HMI/SCADA development
Knowledge of user interface (UI) design principles for HMIs; experience with Rockwell PanelView or Optix HMIs is a plus
Familiarity with industrial communication networks such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, ProfiNet, DeviceNet, or IO-Link
Experience working with automated and electrical systems that include robots, vision systems, sensors, drives, AC/DC circuits, PNP/NPN devices, safety circuits, and motion control (servo/stepper systems)
Ability to read and understand electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation, with a basic understanding of pneumatic systems and electro-mechanical assemblies
Comfortable troubleshooting complex control systems independently, including in customer-facing or field service environments
Experience supporting validation activities such as IQ/OQ/PQ, especially in regulated or medical device settings, with ability to support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
Hands-on experience with vision and inspection systems such as Cognex or Keyence for precision measurement and defect detection
Experience integrating and programming industrial robots (6-axis, SCARA, or Cartesian) for pick-and-place or part-feeding applications
Familiarity with the turnkey automation systems and full automation lifecycle, from design support and programming through testing, installation, and service
Willingness and ability to travel as required

Responsibilities

Create, update, and troubleshoot PLC ladder logic and HMI screens to meet customer needs and internal standards
Work with technologies like cameras, robots, and sensors to make sure all parts of an automated machine work smoothly together
Test machine sequences and check that physical components (switches, actuators, cylinders) are wired and operate correctly before deployment
Act as the main controls programmer on small to mid-sized automation projects
Help keep projects on track by supporting schedules, milestones, and machine build timelines
Maintain clear and organized project documentation, including wire lists, calibration data, and technical specifications
Review and contribute to machine manuals so customers receive accurate and easy-to-follow documentation
Support electrical and mechanical technicians during machine builds and debug by answering questions and helping troubleshoot issues
Travel to customer sites for machine installation, updates, and occasional emergency service calls
Take part in continuous improvement efforts by sharing ideas that improve processes, documentation, and ISO procedures