Controls Engineer

Smith Seckman Reid, Inc is seeking a Controls Engineer in Nashville, TN to design, program, and commission industrial and municipal control systems. The role focuses on integrating PLCs, HMIs/SCADA, instrumentation, and variable-speed drives while coordinating across disciplines to meet client expectations, code requirements, and project timelines.

Responsibilities

• Serve in responsible charge for control systems work based on your experience and expertise, maintaining SSR quality and safety standards.
• Design, install, and commission new control systems; perform modifications and upgrades; troubleshoot existing systems to restore performance.
• Review historical and trend data and prepare clear written reports that document findings and recommended actions.
• Coordinate control designs with other disciplines by defining equipment needs and providing technical information for procedures and sequences of operation.
• Lead and document job-site visits to confirm field conditions, collect measurements, and observe installation progress.
• Coordinate with authorities, utilities, and municipalities to incorporate code, health/safety, and quality requirements.
• Develop man-hour budgets with the Project Manager, plan work, track progress against schedule and budget, and flag risks early.
• Support proactive QA/QC by reviewing drawings, control narratives, IO lists, and test plans prior to issue.
• Interface with suppliers, contractors, and clients to refine scope and cost, and support proposals and client presentations.
• Participate in professional organizations to strengthen SSR’s technical reputation and pursue continuous learning on codes and control technologies.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field from an ABET accredited college with five years of experience in Automation and Control System Engineering.
• EI preferred.
• Experience with multiple PLC systems, with Rockwell Automation preferred.
• Experience with multiple SCADA/HMI software packages, with RA FactoryTalk, GE iFIX, and Schneider Wonderware preferred.
• Experience with the specification and installation of variable speed drives.
• AutoCAD or other relevant design tools preferred.
• Experience in food & beverage, chemical, petrochemical, and water/wastewater treatment preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Knowledge of control system design, process instrumentation, DCS/PLC, SCADA/HMI, architectures, and communication protocols.
• Knowledge of ISA, NFPA, UL, NEC, and related codes/standards, including installation and troubleshooting practices.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD, including the ability to read drawings and coordinate multi-discipline inputs.
• Technical writing and clear presentation skills, with strong interpersonal skills and speech clarity.
• Detail-oriented approach with sound judgment, organized documentation, and follow-through.

Technologies

• PLCs, HMIs/SCADA
• Rockwell Automation
• RA FactoryTalk, GE iFIX, Schneider Wonderware
• Variable speed drives
• AutoCAD, DCS/PLC
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

Benefits

• 100% Employee-Owned with immediate ESOP vesting.
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and a generous company match.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-funded HSA contributions for HDHP plans.
• Life insurance, AD&D, and short and long term disability at no cost to you.
• Flexible schedules, paid parental leave, generous PTO, and paid company holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and ongoing professional development support.

Location and Employment Information

• Nashville, TN (onsite)
• Minimum experience: 5 years