Lead Automation Engineer
Education & Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field with 8–12+ years of relevant industry experience
About the Role:
We're looking for a Lead Automation Engineer to join a dynamic engineering team in Denver, CO. This individual will serve as the technical lead on automation projects, with responsibility for delivering results aligned with scope, budget, and schedule. You’ll play a key role in DCS/PLC programming and SCADA/HMI development, while also mentoring junior engineers and driving high-impact projects.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the design and implementation of automation systems including DCS, PLC, and SCADA/HMI
Serve as the discipline lead on engineering projects, ensuring alignment with project objectives and deadlines
Interface with project managers, engineers, and stakeholders to drive technical excellence
Apply industry standards, best practices, and engineering methodologies to solve complex technical challenges
Conduct in-depth evaluations of project requirements, material acceptability, and contractor deliverables
Coordinate and monitor testing activities, including development of automated testing strategies
Mentor and oversee junior engineers in testing and project execution
Contribute to engineering and construction cost estimates
Collaborate across departments to discuss design and performance considerations
Maintain working knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, and engineering specifications
Apply advanced knowledge of control panel wiring, layout, and control system design
Drive innovation through new testability techniques and automation tools
Preferred Skills:
Strong proficiency in DCS/PLC/SCADA systems
Experience in visual basic programming
Familiarity with automation testing frameworks and methodologies
Advanced knowledge of control panel design and layout
Effective communication and leadership skills
Ability to manage complex problems with minimal supervision
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field
- 8-12+ years of relevant industry experience
- Strong proficiency with DCS, PLC, and SCADA systems
- Experience with Visual Basic programming
- Familiarity with automation testing frameworks and methodologies
- Advanced knowledge of control panel design and layout
- Effective communication and leadership skills
- Ability to manage complex problems with minimal supervision
What We Do
The company’s Chaska operation is an aerospace and defense manufacturer focused on advanced brushless DC electric motors and related actuation solutions. Its activities include engineering, production engineering, machining, assembly, and testing, supporting high-performance motor technologies for demanding aerospace applications. The facility is located in Chaska, Minnesota, and is associated with AS9100 aerospace quality standards, indicating a specialized, vertically oriented manufacturing operation serving mission-critical customers.
