Industrial automation controls engineer

We are seeking an expert-level Industrial Controls Engineer to provide consulting and hands-on engineering support for industrial automation projects. The ideal candidate has extensive experience designing, programming, troubleshooting, and commissioning PLC-based control systems, with deep expertise in Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms and industrial instrumentation (or very similar platforms). This role requires the ability to work independently, interface directly with customers, and deliver complete automation solutions from concept through commissioning. Responsibilities Design, develop, and implement industrial automation and control systems. Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks. Develop PLC software using Rockwell Studio 5000, RSLogix 500, and FactoryTalk software (or similar platforms) Configure and commission Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix, and GuardLogix controllers (or similar platforms) Integrate industrial sensors, instrumentation, actuators, VFDs, servo systems, and motor controls. Develop electrical control strategies and sequencing for automated machinery and process equipment. Perform startup, commissioning, validation, and site acceptance testing (SAT). Troubleshoot complex electrical, controls, networking, and automation issues in manufacturing environments. Develop and maintain: PLC programs HMI applications Functional specifications I/O lists Control narratives Electrical schematics Network architecture documentation Configure industrial communication protocols including: EtherNet/IP DeviceNet ControlNet Modbus RTU/TCP OPC Integrate third-party equipment including robots, barcode scanners, vision systems, scales, and process instrumentation. Support electrical panel reviews and field wiring verification. Collaborate with electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, technicians, and customer personnel. Provide technical leadership and mentoring on controls-related projects. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or equivalent experience. 10+ years of industrial controls engineering experience. Expert-level PLC programming experience. Extensive experience with: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix CompactLogix Studio 5000 Logix Designer FactoryTalk View ME/SE RSLogix 500 Strong knowledge of: Ladder Logic Function Block Structured Text Sequential Function Charts Experience with industrial electrical systems (24VDC, 120VAC, 480VAC). Strong understanding of industrial sensors including: Photoelectric Proximity Ultrasonic Laser Pressure Flow Temperature Level Encoders Vision sensors Experience integrating: Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) Servo motion systems Pneumatics Hydraulics Safety relays Safety PLCs Strong troubleshooting skills in manufacturing and production environments. Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control panel drawings. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Siemens TIA Portal, S7, or Beckhoff TwinCAT. Experience with Ignition SCADA, FactoryTalk SE, or Wonderware. Knowledge of robotics integration (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Universal Robots). Experience with machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence). Familiarity with ISA-88, ISA-95, and IEC 61131-3 standards. Experience in regulated industries (food & beverage, pharmaceutical, life sciences) is a plus. Professional Engineer (PE) license is a plus. Desired Skills Rockwell Automation ecosystem Industrial networking SCADA development HMI design Motion control Industrial safety systems Electrical troubleshooting Process automation Manufacturing execution systems (MES) Commissioning and startup Root cause analysis Technical documentation Customer-facing consulting Project leadership Work Environment Ability to work in industrial manufacturing environments. Occasional off-hours or weekend support during system startups and production cutovers.