Lead Controls Engineer
Lead Controls Engineer Location: Pella, IA
Company: Ruiter Innovations
Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent
Salary: Negotiable based on experience.
Position Overview: Ruiter Innovations is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Controls Engineer for a direct hire opportunity in Pella, IA. This role offers a strong mix of hands-on site work and technical design/programming responsibilities, with leadership expectations on complex, large-scale automation projects. Ideal for someone who thrives in field-based project environments while driving engineering excellence and process optimization.
Compensation & Benefits:
• Competitive salary (based on experience)
• Direct hire opportunity
• Benefits eligibility after just 30 days
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the design and development of HMI systems (including Wonderware HMI software) with integration of SQL databases, Visual Basic .NET, and C# applications
• Provide technical leadership in PLC programming, troubleshooting, and system optimization
• Work with Rockwell (Allen-Bradley) and Siemens PLC platforms
• Lead configuration and troubleshooting of industrial networks: o Ethernet/IP o Profibus
• Oversee electrical control panel design and documentation standards
• Lead control systems design, troubleshooting, and commissioning efforts
• Integrate OEM automation systems across complex environments
• Program and troubleshoot VFDs
• Review and approve electrical schematics and CAD drawings
• Provide technical leadership during site work and project-based activities (approx. 50% hands-on / 50% desk-based)
• Mentor junior engineers and support cross-functional teams
• Drive process improvements and system optimization initiatives
• Apply process engineering principles to improve system performance, throughput, and reliability
• Lead or manage large-scale automation projects, including systems with thousands of I/O points and project budgets.
Travel Requirements
• Travel required for on-site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting
• Estimated travel: 40–60%, depending on project workload
• Travel may include overnight stays and occasional extended project assignments
• Ability to travel on short notice as needed
Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or equivalent experience (military or industrial controls)
• Strong understanding of process engineering concepts within industrial or manufacturing environments
• Required experience with SQL, Visual Basic .NET, and C# in HMI, SCADA, or industrial application development
• Demonstrated ability to lead large-scale projects and complex systems with thousands of I/O points
• Proven leadership experience in controls engineering or automation projects
• Ability to analyze and improve system performance, efficiency, and reliability
• Strong troubleshooting skills using tools such as multimeters and oscilloscopes
• Ability to read and approve electrical schematics and blueprints
• CAD experience (schematics and panel design)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Strong project management, leadership, and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently and lead teams with minimal supervision
• Stable and consistent work history
Why This Role? This position is ideal for a senior-level engineer ready to lead, offering a blend of technical ownership, project leadership, and hands-on execution across large, complex automation systems.
