Lead Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer

Who are we?

XNRGY Climate Systems is a North American leader in sustainable design and advanced manufacturing of custom air treatment systems. We are focused on research and energy development, contributing to the reduction of carbon footprint.

As part of our expansion in the US, XNRGY is seeking a qualified Lead Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer to join its team onsite in Mesa, Arizona. This hands-on leadership role will architect and program mission-critical automation solutions, mentor a growing controls team, and drive innovation in high-performance thermal management applications for our R&D and product lines.

An overview of your responsibilities:

The Lead Controls Engineer / PLC Programmer leads the design, development, and deployment of advanced control systems with deep expertise in Siemens platforms. This role delivers PLC-based automation for complex HVAC, compression, and data center applications, provides technical leadership within our Mesa facility, and mentors junior engineers and programmers.

Key Responsibilities

Control System Design & Programming

• Lead the full lifecycle of control system projects: design, programming, testing, commissioning, and ongoing optimization of PLC-based solutions, primarily on Siemens SIMATIC platforms (TIA Portal, S7-1200/1500 series).

• Develop, implement, and troubleshoot advanced control logic using Structured Control Language (SCL) / Structured Text for complex HVAC, compression, and data center applications.

• Design and maintain robust HMI/SCADA interfaces and database solutions to deliver real-time visibility and data-driven decision making.

Testing & Commissioning

• Lead in-house testing, system commissioning, and startup of equipment prior to shipment from the Mesa facility.

• Perform hands-on diagnostics and root-cause analysis using industry-standard tools in the lab and on the production floor.

Engineering & Optimization

• Apply core engineering principles (thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, controls, and power electronics) to optimize system performance, energy efficiency, and reliability.

Collaboration & Mentorship

• Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D, mechanical, electrical, and project teams.

• Mentor junior engineers and programmers, supporting their technical growth and development.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in controls engineering or PLC programming, with a strong focus on industrial automation, process control, or HVAC systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, or related field, OR relevant technologist diploma plus 7+ years of experience and active CET designation.

Key Competencies / Skills

• Advanced proficiency in Siemens PLC programming (TIA Portal, SIMATIC STEP 7, S7-1200/1500, SCL/Structured Text).

• Solid experience with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, BACnet, Profinet, TCP/IP).

• Proven track record developing HMI/SCADA solutions and database integration.

• Strong working knowledge of Windows-based systems, computer networks, and control system cybersecurity best practices.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; able to clearly articulate technical concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Demonstrated ability to lead projects, mentor team members, and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Preferred / Additional Strengths

• Experience with Carel pCO systems, Rockwell Studio 5000, National Instruments, or Linux real-time platforms.

• Hands-on knowledge of power electronics, variable speed drives, fluid handling equipment, or mission-critical data center infrastructure.

• Familiarity with Ignition HMI, LabVIEW, C/C++, or relational databases (MariaDB, MySQL).

Why choose XNRGY!

• Competitive salary.

• Medical, dental and vision insurance.

• 401 K with employer match.

• Employee Assistance Program.

• A dynamic team, open to change to bring its color.

• Modern state of the art facility with Industry 4.0 technology in Mesa, Arizona.

• Being part of a green industry transformation.

• Fast-growing dynamic environment where entrepreneurial spirit is recognized.

• Inclusive and diversity-friendly environment.

• Career advancement: XNRGY promotes internal promotion.

• Electric charging stations.

At XNRGY Climate Systems, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We believe that a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are essential to driving innovation and achieving success. We welcome individuals who share our passion for sustainability and who are eager to contribute to a more positive environmental future.

Are you ready to join our driven team? Join a company that values Courage, Community, Climate, Customer and Coherence. Be part of carving our footprint and joining a winning team!