Division/Department: Operations/Engineering
Location: Temecula, CA
Position Overview
The Senior Controls Engineer (SCE) is responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced industrial automation SCADA systems. This role serves as the technical authority across all project phases, including requirements analysis, control system architecture, engineering documentation, and site commissioning. The SCE mentors junior engineers, leading project engineering deliverables, ensures technical compliance, and actively engages with clients and stakeholders. This role is key to driving innovation, maintaining quality standards, and supporting the successful deployment and lifecycle of automated control systems.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems across multiple platforms including Rockwell, Siemens, and Schneider.
- Develop and review technical documentation such as Process Control Narratives (PCNs), System commissioning, Plans (SCPs), I/O lists, network architectures, and control panel layouts.
- Oversee and execute control system software development, including advanced logic, interlocks, alarms, and sequencing.
- Oversee and conduct system 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 engineering deliverables with scope, budget, and timelines.
- Supervise and mentor Control System Engineers (CSEs) and Application Engineers (AEs), providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
- Ensure system designs meet industry standards, client specifications, and safety regulations.
- Support change control, revision tracking, and lifecycle maintenance for deployed systems.
- Drive continuous improvement in engineering workflows, templates, and design practices.
- Coordinate with Project Stakeholders weekly to ensure the project team’s overall performance and provide solutions for any issues.
- Perform other duties as required.
Requirements
- 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 such as Rockwell Automation (PlantPAx), Siemens TIA Portal, and Schneider Unity Pro.
- Proficiency in SCADA platforms including Ignition, FactoryTalk View SE/ME, and AVEVA/Wonderware.
- Strong knowledge of communication protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus).
- Demonstrated experience in managing large-scale commissioning efforts and technical documentation control.
- Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
- Ability to perform engineering tasks effectively across multiple projects independently.
- Compliance:
- Ability to pass DoD background checks and drug screening.
- Valid California driver’s license with clean driving and criminal record.
- Willingness to travel and work on-call shifts as required.
Certifications (Preferred, but not required)
- Water / Wastewater Treatment and/or Distribution Grade 1 or higher.
- OSHA 30 and/or EM385-1 safety certificate.
- Current Rockwell Automation PlantPAx
Key Industries
ATSI’s primarily performs system integration services in the following industries:
Water/Wastewater
This role supports automation solutions in water treatment, distribution, and wastewater facilities. Familiarity with municipal infrastructure, SCADA telemetry systems, pump control, and regulatory reporting is essential. Engineers must understand EPA compliance standards and work frequently with city agencies, utility operators, and contractors.
Food & Beverage
This role supports automation systems in food and beverage processing plants. Emphasis is placed on sanitary design, CIP/SIP operations, batch processing, traceability, and integration with MES/ERP systems. Knowledge of FDA, USDA, and FSMA regulations is highly desirable, along with experience in maintaining production continuity and system validation practices.