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About the job

Automationtechies is partnering with a leading, employee-owned engineering and systems integration firm in search of a Senior Controls Engineer to join their team in Irvine, CA. This is a permanent opportunity for an experienced controls leader ready to own automation projects from concept through commissioning, with work spanning life sciences, food and beverage, and manufacturing.

This role offers competitive compensation, plus a discretionary bonus and employee stock ownership, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, HSA and FSA options, paid time off and holidays, tuition reimbursement, 401(k)/profit sharing, and additional employee programs.

Overview:

• Lead controls projects from concept through commissioning, working directly with clients and internal teams across life sciences, food and beverage, and manufacturing.

• Design control system architecture, select components, and develop detailed electrical schematics and control panel designs.

• Program PLCs using Ladder, SFC, and Structured Text, and develop HMI, SCADA, and DCS applications on platforms such as Ignition and PlantPAx.

• Build databases for historical data archiving and display, using VBA, .NET, SQL, and Python for advanced HMI/SCADA development.

• Design and implement fiber, wired, and wireless industrial networks using Ethernet/IP, Profinet, and IT/OT integration.

• Manage project execution plans, budgets, schedules, and reporting for projects up to $1M while ensuring profitability.

• Lead engineering teams, mentor junior engineers, and serve as technical lead or Project Manager as needed.

• Work a hybrid schedule with at least 3 days per week in the office, regular client site visits in Southern California, and up to 25% out-of-state travel.

Requirements:

• 7+ years of experience in controls engineering required.

• Strong PLC programming experience with RSLogix 500, Studio 5000, Siemens Step 7, and TIA Portal required.

• Experience with Rockwell FactoryTalk, with PlantPAx and Inductive Automation Ignition experience highly preferred.

• Experience with S88 batch and recipe management, OEE, MES, and ERP systems strongly preferred.

• Proficiency in electrical schematics, control panel design, and AutoCAD required.

• Proven ability to lead teams and mentor engineers, with strong communication and client-facing skills.

• Professional references from a manager, peer, and subordinate required.

• Candidates based in Orange County, the Inland Empire, or San Diego strongly preferred; out-of-region candidates will be considered.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent experience required.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Automationtechies is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship or immigration status where protected by law, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Work Authorization and Visa Sponsorship

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Employment-based visa sponsorship is not available for this position, either now or in the future.