Controls Technician Career Level
Location: Santa Clara, CA (ONSITE)
Pay Range: $64.33 – $91.35 per hour
Benefits: Standard Medical, Dental, 401(k)
Description:
We’re seeking a Career level Controls Technician to join our team in Santa Clara, California who is excited to have the chance to work on projects enabling a semi-conductor production facility. Your primary responsibility will be designing, developing, and leading the implementation of complex industrial automation systems. This role involves advanced PLC programming, HMI/SCADA system design, system architecture, and full project lifecycle ownership from concept through commissioning. The role also provides technical leadership, mentors junior engineers, and ensures high-quality, scalable automation solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop advanced PLC programs using structured, modular, and scalable architectures
- Lead development of HI/SCADA systems with focus on usability, performance, and reliability
- Architect full automation solutions including PLC, HMI, SCADA, networks, and field devices
- Oversee system integration with databases, historians, and enterprise systems
- Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for complex system failures and production issues
- Manage system testing, validation, and onsite commissioning activities
- Establish and enforce PLC/HMI programming standards and best practices
- Review and approve electrical designs, control strategies, and system documentation
- Collaborate with project managers, clients, vendors, and cross-functional engineering teams
- Mentor and guide junior and intermediate engineers
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, industry regulations, and cybersecurity practices.
Qualifications
- Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics or related field with equivalent experience.
- 8+ years of experience in PLC/HMI programming or industrial automation
- Expert-level PLC programming skills across one or more platforms
- Proven experience leading automation projects and system commissioning
- Strong knowledge of control system design, electrical systems, and industrial processes
Preferred Qualifications:
- Advanced experience with:
- Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000, ControlLogix)
- Siemens (TIA Portal, S7)
- Emerson (Machine Edition)
- Expertise with SCADA platforms (Ignition, FactoryTalk, WinCC, Cimplicity)
- Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as, EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, OPC UA
- Experience with motion control, robotics, and high-speed automation systems
- Familiarity with MES integration, databases (SQL), and IIoT systems
- Experience with safety PLCs and functional safety standards (SIL, ISO)
- Exposure to industrial cybersecurity practices
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any of these characteristics.