Automation Manager

TRC Talent is partnering with a leading systems integrator and modular solutions manufacturer with a significant national footprint and a strong presence in Texas. The organization delivers advanced automation and electrical infrastructure solutions that support critical energy and utility systems. This role sits at the center of high-impact projects spanning design, integration, commissioning, and field execution.

Summary

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for managing automation engineering activities across the full project lifecycle, including PLC/RTU/SCADA design, programming, integration, and commissioning. The Automation Manager will lead engineering teams, oversee technical execution, and ensure successful delivery of complex control systems in energy-sector environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and implementation of automation systems including PLC, RTU, and SCADA architectures

• Manage and support automation engineering teams across multiple concurrent projects

• Oversee development of key technical deliverables including:

  • I/O lists and instrument indexes

  • Control narratives and cause & effect matrices

  • Panel layouts and system architecture drawings

• Direct programming, configuration, and commissioning of PLCs, RTUs, HMIs, and industrial networks

• Standardize and improve automation logic, code structure, and internal engineering processes

• Troubleshoot complex control system, instrumentation, and network issues in field and plant environments

• Support field commissioning activities and ensure successful system startup and handover

• Collaborate with engineering, fabrication/shop teams, procurement, field operations, and clients

• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and performance guidance to automation staff

• Optimize system performance including PID loop tuning and process improvements

• Contribute to project execution planning including scope, schedule, and technical risk management

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technical discipline, or equivalent experience

• 7+ years of hands-on industrial automation and process control experience

• 3–5+ years of leadership experience managing Controls Engineers and/or Automation Technicians

• Strong experience across PLC, SCADA, and RTU systems

• Proficiency with industrial networking and communications protocols

• Experience with control panel design and systems integration

• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex field automation issues

• Strong leadership, analytical, and decision-making capabilities

• Excellent communication skills across technical and executive stakeholders

• Ability to manage full project lifecycle execution (design through commissioning)