Controls Engineering Manager
Job Description
? Full-Time | Direct Hire
? Minimal to No Travel
- Lead a team of Controls Engineers and Test Engineers
- Hands-on programming — not a desk-only management role
- Minimal to no travel
- Flexible work schedule
- Stable organization with ~100 employees
- Strong, repeat customer base in automotive and truck manufacturing
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Controls and Robot Engineers
- Oversee PLC, HMI, and robotic control system design for custom automation projects
- Review and approve programs, safety layouts, schematics, and documentation
- Act as the technical escalation point for complex automation challenges
- Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Project Management, and Sales
- Interface directly with customers on technical reviews and project execution
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and regulatory expectations
- PLCs: Allen-Bradley (primary)
- Robotics: Fanuc (primary), some ABB
- Automation Focus:
- Adhesive and bonding systems
- Automotive and truck body components
- Robotic material handling and assembly
- 10+ years of automation controls experience
- Prior leadership or team-lead experience in a custom automation environment
- Strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming background
- Fanuc robot programming experience (ABB a plus)
- Comfortable being hands-on when projects demand it
- Customer-facing experience and strong communication skills
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or equivalent experience
- Reports to the Managing Director, with direct visibility to executive leadership
- Preference for Midwest-based candidates
- Relocation assistance is available
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.