Lead Controls Engineer

Description

Our client is seeking an experienced Lead Controls Engineer to support and enhance critical automation, controls, and manufacturing systems within a high-volume production environment. This individual will provide technical leadership for plant-floor automation systems, troubleshoot complex controls issues, support modernization initiatives, and ensure maximum equipment reliability and production uptime.

The ideal candidate combines deep PLC programming expertise with hands-on manufacturing controls experience and can effectively diagnose issues across PLCs, SCADA systems, industrial networks, scanners, vision systems, and automated material handling equipment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead troubleshooting and support efforts for plant automation and controls systems.

Program, modify, commission, and maintain PLC-based control systems.

Support automated production and material handling systems including conveyors, drives, motors, sensors, and interlocks.

Diagnose and resolve issues involving PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, industrial networks, and connected equipment.

Support controls upgrades, equipment replacements, and modernization initiatives.

Analyze recurring system issues and identify true root causes to prevent future downtime.

Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, and production teams to improve reliability and performance.

Provide technical leadership and direction regarding automation standards, architecture, and best practices.

Assist with evaluating new technologies and automation solutions to support business objectives.

Develop and execute testing, validation, and deployment plans for controls projects.

Ensure compliance with company standards, safety requirements, and operational procedures.

Skills

Project controls, Control system, Scheduling cost analysis, Cost analysis

Top Skills Details

Project controls,Control system,Scheduling cost analysis,Cost analysis

Additional Skills & Qualifications

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related technical field preferred.

Equivalent industry experience will be considered.

Experience

6+ years of Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related industrial systems experience.

Experience working in a manufacturing, production, or material handling environment.

Proven experience supporting automation systems in live production operations.

Technical Requirements

PLC & Controls

Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting experience.

Experience with:

Schneider Electric / Modicon PLCs (highly preferred)

Ladder Logic

Structured Text Programming

I/O Mapping

Commissioning and Startup Activities

Electrical Schematic Interpretation

SCADA & HMI

Strong experience with:

Ignition

iFix

HMI Development and Support

SCADA System Troubleshooting

Material Handling & Automation

Conveyors

Motors and VFDs

Sensors and Photo Eyes

Automated Material Handling Systems

Interlocks and Sequencing Controls

Industrial Networks & Integration

Industrial Ethernet communications

PLC-to-device communications

Field device troubleshooting

Industrial network diagnostics

Vision & Scanning Systems

Experience with:

Keyence

Cognex

SICK

Desired Skills

Strong root-cause analysis and troubleshooting capabilities.

Experience supporting both legacy and modern automation platforms.

Knowledge of SQL, scripting, and server-based applications.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Basic project management experience.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Ability to communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Experience Level

Expert Level

This is a Contract position based out of Holcomb, KS.

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $85.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Holcomb,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 9, 2026.

We're partners in transformation. We help clients activate ideas and solutions to take advantage of a new world of opportunity. We are a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 clients, including 80% of the Fortune 500, across North America, Europe and Asia. As an industry leader in Full-Stack Technology Services, Talent Services, and real-world application, we work with progressive leaders to drive change. That's the power of true partnership. TEKsystems is an Allegis Group company.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regards to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

Were a leading provider of business and technology services. We accelerate business transformation for our customers. Our expertise in strategy, design, execution and operations unlocks business value through a range of solutions. Were a team of 80,000 strong, working with over 6,000 customers, including 80% of the Fortune 500 across North America, Europe and Asia, who partner with us for our scale, full-stack capabilities and speed. Were strategic thinkers, hands-on collaborators, helping customers capitalize on change and master the momentum of technology. Were building tomorrow by delivering business outcomes and making positive impacts in our global communities. TEKsystems and TEKsystems Global Services are Allegis Group companies. Learn more at TEKsystems.com.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.