Division/Department: Industrial Automation Group – Engineering
Location: Temecula, CA
Position Overview
The Senior Controls Engineer leads the design, development, and implementation of advanced industrial automation SCADA systems and serves as the technical authority across all project phases — requirements analysis, control system architecture, engineering documentation, and site commissioning. It is design-and-leadership focused rather than field-execution focused.
The SCE mentors junior engineers, leads engineering deliverables, ensures technical compliance, and engages directly with clients and stakeholders. This role drives innovation, maintains quality standards, and supports the full deployment and lifecycle of automated control systems.
Salary Range
- SCE Level 1: annual base salary of $120,000-$145,000
- SCE Level 2 (lead/technical authority): annual base salary $140,000-$165,000
Salary is commensurate with experience and does not include on-call and travel premiums, per diem, bonuses, and benefits, which can add roughly 15-30% to total compensation.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems across Rockwell, Siemens, and Schneider platforms.
- Develop and review technical documentation: Process Control Narratives (PCNs), System Commissioning Plans (SCPs), I/O lists, network architectures, and control panel layouts.
- Oversee and execute control system software development — advanced logic, interlocks, alarms, and sequencing.
- Oversee and conduct testing phases: Internal Quality Control (IQC), Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
- Lead on-site startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting for new installations and upgrades.
- Interface with clients, project managers, and cross-disciplinary teams to align deliverables with scope, budget, and timeline.
- Supervise and mentor Control Systems Engineers and Application Engineers, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
- Ensure designs meet industry standards, client specifications, and safety regulations; support change control and lifecycle maintenance.
- Drive continuous improvement in engineering workflows, templates, and design practices; coordinate weekly with project stakeholders.
Certifications & Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 7–10+ years of progressive experience in control system design, programming, and commissioning
- Expertise in PLC platforms — Rockwell (PlantPAx), Siemens TIA Portal, Schneider Unity Pro
- Proficiency in SCADA platforms — Ignition, FactoryTalk View SE/ME, AVEVA/Wonderware
- Strong knowledge of communication protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus)
- Demonstrated experience managing large-scale commissioning efforts and technical documentation control
- Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills; ability to run multiple projects independently
- Ability to pass a DoD background check and drug screening
- Valid California driver’s license with a clean driving record and no criminal record
- Willingness to travel to client sites and support FAT/SAT, commissioning, service reviews, and technical meetings
- Willingness to work on-call shifts as required
Preferred Certifications
The following certifications are preferred but not required:
- Water/Wastewater Grade 1+
- OSHA 30 and/or EM385-1safety certificate
- Current Rockwell PlantPAx.