Job Title: PLC Engineer

Job Summary:

The PLC Engineer Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the design, programming, implementation, optimization, and maintenance of PLC-based automation systems. This leadership role involves supervising a team of engineers, managing complex automation projects, ensuring system reliability, and implementing continuous improvements in PLC and automation technologies. The Manager will drive the development of PLC systems, provide strategic direction, and ensure that all systems meet operational, safety, and regulatory requirements while aligning with business objectives. This position requires strong project management, leadership, and technical expertise in PLC programming and automation systems.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Team Leadership and Management:

   • Lead, manage, and mentor a team of PLC engineers, technicians, and support staff to ensure successful project execution and continuous development of technical skills within the team.
   • Set performance goals for the team, provide guidance, conduct performance reviews, and foster a collaborative environment focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
   • Allocate resources effectively, ensuring that team members are assigned appropriate tasks and projects based on skills and experience.
   • Organize training and development opportunities to enhance the capabilities of the engineering team.

2. Project Management and Execution:

   • Oversee the planning, design, and implementation of PLC-based control systems and automation projects across multiple industrial or commercial settings.
   • Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure the successful and timely delivery of projects that meet customer specifications and business goals.
   • Coordinate with other departments (e.g., mechanical, electrical, instrumentation) to ensure seamless integration of automation systems within the broader project scope.
   • Track project progress, identify risks, and develop mitigation strategies to address challenges and ensure project objectives are met.

3. System Design and Optimization:

   • Oversee the design and development of advanced PLC programs and control strategies for complex automation processes.
   • Implement system integration for PLCs, SCADA, HMI, sensors, actuators, and other control components to improve system performance, reduce inefficiencies, and optimize automation workflows.
   • Ensure that PLC systems meet operational requirements, including efficiency, reliability, and uptime, and lead optimization efforts for improved system functionality and cost reduction.
   • Direct the integration of new technologies and control solutions that improve system capabilities and automation efficiency.

4. Troubleshooting and System Support:

   • Lead troubleshooting efforts for complex PLC and automation system failures, providing advanced technical expertise to diagnose root causes and implement effective solutions.
   • Oversee the implementation of preventive maintenance strategies to ensure systems remain operational and minimize downtime.
   • Manage system upgrades, patches, and modifications to ensure PLC systems stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and client requirements.
   • Provide ongoing technical support and guidance for team members and other stakeholders during the troubleshooting and maintenance process.

5. Safety and Regulatory Compliance:

   • Ensure that all PLC-based automation systems are designed, installed, and maintained in compliance with local and international electrical safety standards, electrical codes (e.g., NEC, IEC), and industry regulations (e.g., OSHA).
   • Promote a strong safety culture within the engineering team and ensure adherence to safety protocols and best practices during design, implementation, and maintenance activities.
   • Lead safety audits and risk assessments to identify hazards and ensure that corrective actions are implemented to mitigate risks in automation systems.

6. Client and Stakeholder Communication:

   • Maintain relationships with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders, ensuring that their needs are met and that project deliverables align with business objectives.
   • Act as the primary point of contact for technical queries, project updates, and any escalated issues related to PLC systems and automation projects.
   • Provide regular status reports and updates to senior management and clients, communicating project progress, risks, and any challenges encountered.

7. Budget and Resource Management:

   • Develop and manage budgets for PLC-based automation projects, ensuring effective resource allocation and cost control.
   • Monitor expenditures and track project costs to ensure projects remain within budget, making adjustments as necessary to address unforeseen challenges.
   • Ensure that the engineering team has the necessary tools, equipment, and materials to carry out project tasks effectively.

8. Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

   • Stay current with the latest trends and innovations in PLC programming, industrial automation, and control systems technologies.
   • Identify and evaluate new technologies that can improve system efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the overall performance of automation systems.
   • Drive innovation within the engineering team, encouraging the adoption of new tools, methodologies, and techniques to improve operational processes.

9. Documentation and Reporting:

   • Ensure the creation and maintenance of comprehensive documentation for all PLC programming, system configurations, installation procedures, and maintenance activities.
   • Oversee the preparation of technical reports, project documentation, and performance reviews for clients, senior management, and internal stakeholders.
   • Ensure that documentation is up-to-date, accurate, and accessible for future audits, upgrades, or troubleshooting.

Skills and Knowledge Required:

• Expert knowledge of PLC programming (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block Diagram) and industrial control systems.
• Extensive experience in designing, integrating, and optimizing PLC-based automation systems in industrial or commercial environments.
• Strong project management skills, with experience managing complex projects from concept to delivery, including budgeting, scheduling, and resource management.
• Experience with SCADA and HMI systems and understanding of how they integrate with PLCs to monitor and control industrial processes.
• In-depth understanding of electrical safety standards, regulations (e.g., NEC, IEC), and best practices.
• Proven leadership skills, with the ability to manage and mentor a team of engineers and technicians.
• Advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving skills for complex PLC systems and automation-related issues.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage with clients, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams effectively.

Educational Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Certifications in PLC programming, industrial automation, or project management (e.g., PMP) are highly desirable.
• Additional certifications in safety standards (e.g., Six Sigma, OSHA) or control systems (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell) would be a plus.

Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in PLC programming, automation systems, and control systems engineering, with at least 5 years in a managerial or leadership role.
• Proven experience in managing and executing complex PLC-based automation projects from design to commissioning and optimization.
• Strong background in leading and mentoring teams, managing resources, and ensuring project deliverables are met according to business goals.

Tools and Technologies:

• Proficiency in PLC programming software (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, Allen-Bradley).
• Experience with SCADA software (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition, Siemens WinCC) and HMI development tools.
• Familiarity with electrical design software and simulation tools (e.g., AutoCAD, MATLAB, LabVIEW).
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols, network architecture, and cybersecurity best practices.

Other Requirements:

• Excellent organizational, leadership, and time-management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects and priorities.
• Ability to work independently and in collaboration with other teams to achieve business goals.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities to address complex challenges and improve system performance.
• Willingness to travel to project sites, client locations, and supplier facilities as required.
• A proactive and strategic mindset, with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation in automation and control systems.