Lead Controls Engineer
Location: Holcomb, KS 67851 | Onsite
Schedule: Monday-Friday
1st Shift: 6:00 AM-4:00 PM | 2nd Shift: 3:00 PM-12:00 AM
Pay Rate: $90.00/hour
Are you a highly skilled Controls Engineer who thrives on solving complex automation challenges and driving continuous improvement? We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer to provide technical leadership for critical industrial automation and information systems supporting a large-scale manufacturing environment. In this role, you'll lead modernization initiatives, optimize plant-floor technologies, and collaborate across departments to ensure reliable, efficient, and innovative operations.
This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future of automation while working with cutting-edge technologies, large-scale production systems, and cross-functional teams that value innovation and continuous improvement.
As the Lead Controls Engineer, you will:
Provide technical leadership and strategic direction for plant automation, controls, and information systems.
Design, develop, implement, and support technology solutions that enhance operational efficiency and reliability.
Lead troubleshooting and root-cause analysis efforts across PLCs, HMI/SCADA systems, industrial networks, and automated equipment.
Program, commission, and maintain PLC-based control systems in industrial manufacturing environments.
Support and improve material handling systems, conveyors, drives, sensors, barcode scanners, vision systems, and related automation equipment.
Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, and management teams to identify technology improvements and automation opportunities.
Evaluate, recommend, and implement hardware, software, and infrastructure upgrades.
Develop and maintain technology standards, best practices, and system documentation.
Manage vendor relationships and stay current on emerging automation and controls technologies.
Support controls modernization projects involving both legacy and next-generation equipment.
Develop and execute integrated testing plans to ensure successful system implementations.
Mentor team members and provide expert technical guidance across the organization.
Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, or related technical field. Equivalent experience may be considered.
6+ years of experience in Information Systems, Controls Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related discipline.
Strong PLC programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting experience in industrial environments.
Expertise with Schneider Electric / Modicon PLC platforms.
Experience with Ignition and iFix SCADA/HMI platforms.
Experience supporting automated manufacturing, production, or material-handling systems.
Advanced knowledge of:
SCADA platforms
HMI systems
SQL databases
Scripting and programming technologies
Industrial communications and networking
Experience troubleshooting:
Conveyors
Motors and drives
Sensors and photo-eyes
Interlocks and sequencing systems
Barcode and scanning technologies
Strong understanding of electrical schematics and control system architecture.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on root-cause resolution.
Knowledge of Keyence, Cognex, and SICK vision and scanning systems.
Experience supporting controls upgrades, equipment modernization, and automation expansion projects.
Familiarity with structured programming methodologies and system development lifecycle practices.
Project leadership or project management experience within manufacturing or industrial operations.
Experience working with mixed environments consisting of both legacy and modern control systems.
At our organization, you'll have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that directly impact operational success. We foster a collaborative culture where innovation, technical excellence, and continuous learning are valued and encouraged.
Challenging, high-visibility automation and controls projects.
Opportunities to lead modernization and digital transformation initiatives.
Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies and industrial automation systems.
A collaborative environment where your expertise and ideas make a difference.
Career growth opportunities with a stable and growing organization.
Competitive compensation and benefits package.
A safety-first workplace focused on employee success and development.
If you're passionate about industrial automation, controls engineering, and solving complex technical challenges, we want to hear from you. Apply today and bring your expertise to a team where innovation, leadership, and continuous improvement drive success every day.
Apply now and help shape the future of manufacturing technology and automation in Holcomb, Kansas.
Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
