Original job description
About Upscale Automation
Upscale Automation is a Windsor-based machine builder and controls engineering firm serving clients across the automotive and general manufacturing sectors. We're a small but growing team that delivers end-to-end automation solutions - from mechanical machine builds through controls design, PLC programming, and on-site commissioning and production support. Our work spans a wide range of machine types and industries, which means every project brings something new.
Position Overview
We are looking for a controls engineer who has been around the block - someone who has led projects, not just supported them. With 5–7+ years of hands-on experience, you'll own automation work end-to-end: PLC programming, HMI development, robot integration, machine startup, and on-site commissioning. If you thrive in industrial environments, make decisions independently, and take pride in getting machines running right, this role is built for you.
Why Upscale Automation
Varied & Challenging Work
No two projects are the same. You'll work across automotive and general manufacturing clients - keeping the work interesting and your skills sharp.
Senior-Level Ownership
This isn't a support role. You'll lead projects end-to-end with the autonomy to make real technical decisions.
Competitive Compensation
Salary commensurate with experience. Contract and full-time structures available depending on your preference.
Be Part of the Growth
Join a small but growing team where your contributions are visible, your voice matters, and there's real room to grow with the company.
Key Responsibilities
Lead development, modification, and troubleshooting of PLC programs for complex industrial automation systems, independently managing multi-axis and multi-zone control architectures.
Design, develop, and optimize HMI applications including operator interfaces, alarm management, and production data visualization.
Manage robot integration and automation cell coordination, including programming and interfacing with peripheral devices and vision systems.
Lead machine startup, I/O checkout, system debugging, and ongoing production support with minimal supervision.
Interpret and redline electrical drawings, controls hardware schematics, and field device documentation throughout project execution.
Drive controls upgrades, retrofit projects, and machine modernization initiatives from technical assessment to final handover.
Serve as the primary technical resource during commissioning, coordinating with technicians, engineers, and customers on-site and remotely.
Mentor junior engineers and controls technicians, providing guidance on best practices, standards, and troubleshooting methodologies.
Qualifications
5–7+ years of progressive experience in PLC programming and industrial controls engineering.
Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or equivalent technical discipline.
Proven proficiency in HMI development, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
Deep understanding of industrial automation hardware, control panel design, and safety systems (e.g., safety PLCs, light curtains, E-stop circuits).
Demonstrated ability to independently lead startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting on complex machines - not just support them.
Strong working knowledge of electrical standards applicable to industrial equipment (CSA, NFPA 79, UL508A).
Excellent communication, documentation, and problem-solving skills in fast-paced project environments.
Valid driver's license and comfortable with field travel up to 25–30% of the time depending on project phase.
Preferred Skills
Allen-Bradley / RockwellSiemens TIA PortalOmron SysmacMitsubishi GX WorksFactoryTalk ViewIgnition SCADAFanuc / KUKA RoboticsMachine Vision SystemsServo / Motion ControlVFD / Drive ConfigurationAutoCAD ElectricalProfibus / EtherNet/IPOPC-UA / MQTTMachine Builder Experience
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More about this job
Responsibilities
Lead industrial automation projects from controls design and PLC/HMI development through robot integration, startup, commissioning, and production support. Manage upgrades and retrofits, coordinate with customers and project teams, interpret electrical documentation, and mentor junior staff.
Requirements
Requires 5–7+ years of progressive PLC programming and industrial controls experience, plus a degree or diploma in electrical engineering, mechatronics, controls engineering, or an equivalent technical discipline. Candidates should be able to independently lead complex machine commissioning and troubleshooting, understand industrial hardware and safety systems and applicable electrical standards, and be willing to travel up to 25–30%.
Skills
- PLC Programming
- HMI Development
- Robot Integration
- Industrial Automation
- Machine Startup
- Commissioning
- Troubleshooting
- Electrical Drawings
- Control Panel Design
- Safety Systems
- Servo and Motion Control
- VFD Configuration
- Machine Vision
- Controls Upgrades
- Project Leadership
- Mentoring
Visa sponsorship
Not detected in the job text
Categories
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Technology
- Management & Leadership
Keywords
- PLC Programming
- Allen-Bradley
- Rockwell
- Siemens TIA Portal
- Omron Sysmac
- Mitsubishi GX Works
- FactoryTalk View
- Ignition SCADA
- Fanuc Robotics
- KUKA Robotics
- Machine Vision Systems
- Servo Control
- Motion Control
- VFD Configuration
- AutoCAD Electrical
- Profibus
- EtherNet/IP
- OPC-UA
- MQTT
- HMI Development
- Robot Integration
- Industrial Automation
- Safety PLCs
- CSA Standards
- NFPA 79
- UL508A
- Machine Commissioning
- Electrical Schematics
- Control Panel Design
- Machine Modernization
