Controls Engineer
Job Description
Senior Controls Engineer
Location: Arlington, TX
Compensation: Up to $175,000 + Bonus
Industry: Custom Automation | Defense & Energetics
A leading custom automation manufacturer supporting the defense and energetics industries is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, programming, integration, and commissioning of complex turnkey production systems.
This is a high-impact role for a technical leader who can take ownership from concept through commissioning and client handoff.
Key Responsibilities
Program and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLCs (ControlLogix, CompactLogix) using Studio 5000
Develop ladder logic, structured text, and function block programs
Design electrical control panels (schematics, layouts, BOMs) using AutoCAD Electrical
Size/spec motors, drives, sensors, safety components, and motion systems
Develop HMIs (PanelView or similar) and integrate SCADA systems (Ignition, FactoryTalk, etc.)
Program and optimize industrial robots (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, etc.)
Integrate PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and third-party equipment
Implement industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, DeviceNet)
Lead onsite commissioning, validation, and system troubleshooting
Ensure compliance with UL 508A, NFPA 79, ISO 13849, ANSI/RIA, and DoD requirements
Travel: ~10% during design phases; up to 50%+ during commissioning.
Qualifications
10+ years of industrial automation experience
5+ years in large-scale custom automation projects
Strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming expertise
Hands-on robot programming experience
HMI and SCADA development experience preferred
Strong understanding of control panel design and machine safety standards
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, or related field
What’s Offered
Base salary up to $175,000 (DOE)
Performance-based incentives
75%+ employer-paid medical coverage
Dental, vision, life, and short-term disability
401(k) with immediate vesting
Generous PTO
If you’re a senior-level controls engineer looking to lead complex, mission-critical automation builds, this is an opportunity to step into a true technical ownership role.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
Meet Your Recruiter
Ric Delgado
Lead Technical Recruiter
Ric Delgado is a seasoned Principal Recruiter primarily focusing on the Automation Division at Sterling. With a distinguished tenure of over five years at Sterling and an impressive career spanning more than a decade in the recruiting field, Ric is a respected and accomplished professional in talent acquisition.
As a Principal Recruiter, Ric draws upon his extensive experience to excel in the Automation Division. His in-depth understanding of this dynamic industry enables him to connect talented individuals with exciting and fulfilling job opportunities expertly. Ric plays a pivotal role in helping candidates find new positions, advance in their careers, and achieve their professional goals.
Ric's passion for positively impacting individuals' lives through career advancement is the driving force behind his dedication to recruitment. He takes immense pride in his role as a professional growth and development facilitator, understanding the pivotal role a career change can play in a person's life journey.
He firmly believes in continuously updating one's skills and knowledge to stay competitive in any field. His commitment to personal and professional development not only enhances his own expertise but also positions him as a valuable resource for candidates seeking guidance in their career journeys.