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Senior Controls Engineer

Sapience Automation
Charleston, SC Full Time
POSTED ON 10/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 11/7/2026
Job Description: Senior Controls Engineer

Company Overview

Sapience Automation, a reputable provider of turnkey solutions for industrial automation, specializes in serving diverse industries such as automotive, medical, aviation, building products, general industrial, domestic appliances, and food. Headquartered in Charleston, South Carolina, Sapience is committed to fostering long-term customer relationships by consistently delivering excellence through its skilled workforce, standardized processes, and passion for innovation. The company values transparency, continuous learning, and a strong sense of responsibility and accountability. With a successful track record of executing numerous global projects, Sapience attributes its achievements to its exceptional team, adherence to industry standards, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Competitive compensation packages are offered to qualified candidates.

Responsibilities

PLC / Software Programming

  • Design, develop, and implement PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programs to control robot systems and other automated systems.
  • Program peripheral devices such as vision system, RFID controllers, and automated inspection equipment.
  • Execute the installation, debugging, and production launch of robot systems during the pre-build phase at Sapience and on-site installations.
  • Test programs during the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) / Modular Build phase at Sapience’s facility.
  • Provide remote support to Sapience team members via remote connection.
  • Proficiency with Allen Bradley PLCs and/or Siemens PLCs is required and experience with other PLCs, MES systems, or robot programming is a plus.

Control Panel and Automation Electrical & Pneumatic System Design

  • Design control panels, electrical controls, safety hardware, and pneumatic controls for robot systems and automation equipment such as conveyors.
  • Create detailed drawings of system designs.
  • Collaborate with vendors and Sapience’s purchasing department to obtain quotes and procure necessary materials for the system.
  • Oversee the panel build process to ensure compliance with specifications. Panel builds are done either internally at Sapience or through partner companies.
  • Support engineers during system installation, testing, and debugging.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical or E-Plan required.

General

  • Coordinate site teams and coordinate management on project execution.
  • Coordinate subcontractors for controls or electrical design support
  • Create project timelines and hours estimates
  • Manage activities using the Sapience ERP system
  • Lead or participate in Engineering Processes such as FMEAs, Safety Plans, Design Reviews, and the System Verification Process.

Qualifications And Education Requirements

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience in the robotics or automation industry.
  • Post-high-school degree in a technical discipline.
  • Strong written and spoken communication skills.
  • Proficiency with PCs and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
  • Troubleshooting and debugging skills related to electrical control systems.

Additional Notes

  • Occasional travel to customer sites is required to support system installations and provide production support.
  • The company offers a robust benefits program.

The position is located in Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston, SC has been rated the best U.S. city to visit by Travel and Leisure for 12 years in a row and offers a rare combination of a coastal city, a growing manufacturing base, and a highly cultural city known for its history, dining, and other activities.

________________________________________

Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance or have any other requests!

Phone: (843) 999-0750 Email: sheryl.myc@sapienceautomation.com

Salary.com Estimation for Senior Controls Engineer in Charleston, SC
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