Senior Electrical Controls Engineer

Location: Sterling, MA

About the Role

This organisation is a growing automation systems integrator specialising in custom machine building and systems integration. They are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to join their team in Sterling, MA. This is a high-impact role suited to a seasoned professional who thrives in a project-driven environment-someone capable of owning electrical design and programming from concept through commissioning, while confidently managing schedules, budgets, and vendor relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Programming Proficiency: Program and configure PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and HMI (Human-Machine Interface) systems, as well as safety controllers, motion control, and vision systems using industry-standard software tools including Allen-Bradley, Cognex, Keyence, SICK, Siemens, Bosch, Omron, CoDeSys, and Mitsubishi.
• Electrical Design: Develop overall system architecture, industrial electrical schematics, and electrical control panel layouts based on industry-standard best practices, utilising 2D CAD systems.
• System Integration: Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to integrate control systems into existing manufacturing processes, ensuring efficiency and reliability.
• System Analysis and Troubleshooting: Perform system analysis, testing, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal operation and performance of automation systems.
• Technical Support and Training: Provide technical support and training to engineers, technicians, and customers to ensure effective system operation.
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure all projects meet regulatory standards and adhere to strict safety requirements.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline required.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of electrical engineering experience, ideally within an industrial or manufacturing environment. Broad industry exposure or experience with automation equipment builders is highly advantageous.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong PLC programming and configuration experience, particularly with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, CoDeSys, or Mitsubishi platforms. Familiarity with motion control, vision systems, sensor integration, and data acquisition systems is required.
• BOM & Documentation: Proven ability to manage structured bills of materials (BOMs) and electrical drawing packages throughout the full project lifecycle.
• Vendor & Procurement Knowledge: Experience quoting custom fabricated and machined parts, evaluating vendor quotes, and managing supplier relationships.
• Project Execution: Demonstrated ability to deliver projects on time and within budget in a project-based or job-shop environment. Familiarity with change order processes is beneficial.
• Small-Shop Mindset: Comfortable operating in a lean, fast-paced environment where engineers are self-directed, take ownership, and contribute across multiple areas. Prior experience with a small integrator or custom machine builder is strongly preferred.
• Communication: Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, customers, and vendors.

Platform Partnership

The organisation is part of a broader automation platform backed by a private equity group, built to serve North American manufacturers with advanced automation and integration solutions. As part of this platform, the team has access to expanded resources and sister-company capabilities, including panel fabrication, SCADA/MES, machine vision, and robotics. This enables engineers to take on technically complex projects across industries such as food & beverage, life sciences, aerospace & defence, and more.

Why Join

Engineers in this organisation are empowered to take ownership of their work, designing systems that solve real-world challenges and seeing projects through from concept to completion.

The company offers:

• Competitive salary with annual bonus potential and opportunities for career growth
• A collaborative, low-bureaucracy environment where individual contributions matter
• Exposure to diverse industries and machine types, ensuring varied and engaging work
• A team culture focused on craftsmanship, accountability, and continuous improvement

Core Values

• Champion the Customer: Build partnerships, do what's right, and succeed together
• Own It: Take accountability, solve problems, and drive results
• Deliver Excellence: Demonstrate expertise, pride, and attention to detail
• Spark Innovation: Stay curious, embrace challenges, and continuously improve
• Stronger Together: Foster respect, support, and teamwork