Senior Automation Controls Engineer

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This range is provided by Insight Global. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

115,000.00/yr - 150,000.00/yr

Day to day:

Insight Global is seeking a Design/Project Engineer responsible for designing and building control panels, developing and troubleshooting PLC programs, and integrating variable frequency drives (VFDs) into automated systems. This role involves collaborating with cross‑functional teams to deliver reliable, safe, and efficient automation solutions for industrial applications. This position requires approximately 50% travel for customer meetings, system commissioning, and field service as needed.

This is an organization in which our Engineers will see their project through from cradle to grave – the engineer who designs the system will also commission and see all the way through maintenance.

Preferred Experience (not all required depending on level of experience)

• Coordinated web handling machines (e.g., paper machines, secondary metals, converting, building products)
• Motion control applications utilizing electronic gear
• Ability to describe various VFD components and topologies
• High-level understanding of control theory
• Commercial and technical project management

Key Responsibilities

• Design electrical control panels in compliance with applicable codes and standards (e.g., NFPA 70, UL 508A)
• Create detailed schematics, wiring diagrams, and bills of materials
• Oversee panel assembly, wiring, and factory acceptance testing

PLC Programming

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or other platforms)
• Configure HMI/SCADA interfaces for operator usability and system monitoring
• Implement structured programming practices for scalability and reliability

Drives & Motion Control

• Specify, configure, and commission VFDs and servo systems
• Integrate drives into control systems for motor speed, torque, and position control
• Optimize drive parameters for performance and energy efficiency
• Collaborate with mechanical, process, and electrical engineers to ensure seamless system operation
• Conduct on‑site installation, startup, and commissioning of automation systems
• Provide technical support, troubleshooting, and documentation for delivered systems

Compensation

$40/hr to $70/hr.

Exact compensation may vary based on several factors, including skills, experience, and education.

Benefits & Eligibility

Benefit packages for this role will start on the 31st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401(k) retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.

Seniority level

Mid-Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Industries

Manufacturing