What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Controls Engineer position at Valknut Automation?
Job Description Step into a senior technical role where your decisions directly influence production performance, safety, and reliability across complex manufacturing environments. This is a high-impact contract opportunity with a focus on modern automation, giving you ownership of advanced control systems from concept through commissioning. About the Role: You will lead the design, development, and optimisation of industrial control systems, ensuring robust, safe, and efficient operation of automated manufacturing lines.
Working closely with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams, you will be the primary expert for PLC/HMI/SCADA, robotics integration, and safety systems. Your work will drive uptime, throughput, and compliance with relevant standards across multiple projects. Key Responsibilities: Design, program, and modify PLC control logic (Rockwell, Siemens, etc.) for new and existing manufacturing equipment
Develop, configure, and integrate HMI and SCADA systems to provide intuitive operator interfaces and reliable data acquisition. Program, commission, and integrate industrial robots with associated control hardware and software for automated processes. Create and update control system architectures, electrical schematics, and panel layouts using AutoCAD or E-Plan.
Perform advanced troubleshooting and root cause analysis on control systems, drives, networks, and field devices to resolve complex issues. Implement and validate machine safety circuits, interlocks, and safety PLC logic in accordance with NFPA 70E, IEC/ANSI, and OSHA requirements. Lead control system commissioning, testing, and startup activities, including on-site support during installation and ramp-up.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define control strategies, document system changes, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Key Requirements: Extensive hands-on experience in PLC programming and troubleshooting with major platforms (e.g. Rockwell ControlLogix/CompactLogix, Siemens S7/TIA Portal)
Proven experience developing and integrating HMI/SCADA systems (FactoryTalk, WinCC, or equivalent) in manufacturing environments. Strong background in industrial robotics programming and integration (e.g. Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, or similar)
Demonstrated expertise in control system design, including I/O specification, network architecture, and panel design. Proficiency in reading and creating electrical schematics and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD or E-Plan. Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, etc.) and control networks
Track record of performing systematic root cause analysis and advanced diagnostics on complex automation systems. Practical knowledge of machine safety systems and compliance with NFPA 70E, IEC/ANSI, and OSHA standards. Desirable Skills: Experience in high-volume or continuous-process manufacturing environments.
Familiarity with MES, historian, or data analytics tools integrated with control systems. Exposure to motion control, servo systems, and advanced drive configurations. Experience leading small project teams or coordinating contractors during installation and commissioning.
Ability to document standards, create functional specifications, and contribute to control system best practices. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control/Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field. Associate degree in a relevant technical discipline with significant controls experience will be considered.
Professional certifications in automation, robotics, or safety (e.g. TUV Functional Safety, ISA, Rockwell or Siemens certifications) preferred. Formal training in NFPA 70E and machine safety standards advantageous
If you are a Senior Controls Engineer who thrives on solving complex automation challenges and driving safe, reliable production, we invite you to apply for this contract opportunity in Nashville.