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.
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.
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
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.
Sterling Engineering has been a trusted partner for engineering, project management, and staffing solutions for over five decades. We provide exceptional engineering/technical recruitment and engineering project services to clients nationwide:
Sterling offers a unique combination of engineering solutions and Best of Staffing level service to help our clients and talent achieve their goals.