What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Controls Engineer position at Depatie Fluid Power Company?
Description
We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and is eager to learn, adapt, and lead. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical foundation in industrial automation who is motivated to grow. We’re looking for someone with initiative, work ethic, and a passion for continuous learning.
You’ll lead the design and delivery of control systems, PLC/HMI programming, robotics integration, and industrial automation solutions, while mentoring team members and collaborating cross-functionally.
Requirements
What You'll Do
- Lead controls engineering projects from concept through design, programming, testing, and commissioning
- Design and develop PLC programs, HMI/SCADA systems, and embedded controls
- Create electrical schematics, panel layouts, and Bills of Materials (BOMs)
- Integrate industrial robots, motion control systems, and VFDs
- Specify and implement process instrumentation and control components
- Install, commission, and troubleshoot systems at customer sites
- Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and project management teams
- Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering best practices
- Support Sales with project estimates, timelines, and technical input
- Manage project schedules, budgets, and customer communication
- Research and implement new technologies in automation and controls
- Travel domestically to support projects across company locations and customer sites throughout the U.S.
What We're Looking For
- Strong initiative and willingness to take ownership
- Eagerness to learn new technologies, platforms, and tools
- Ability to adapt quickly in a dynamic, project-based environment
- Comfortable working with and learning new software and automation technologies
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting mindset
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
- 3–10 years of experience in controls engineering or industrial automation
- Experience with at least two of the following:
- PLC Programming (Rockwell / Siemens / etc.)
- HMI Development
- SCADA Systems (Ignition, AVEVA, GE, etc.)
- Robotics Integration
- Motion Control / VFDs
- Embedded Systems
- Control Panel Design / Electrical Schematics
- Familiarity with industrial networks and protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet)
- Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar tools
- Willingness to travel for commissioning and client support