USA Remote & Travel

Manager, Industrial Controls Engineering

Time type: full time Posted on: June 09, 2026 Job requisition id: R7173

What we need

Symbotic is seeking a Manager of Industrial Controls Engineering to lead a team of Controls Engineers

responsible for developing, testing, and maintaining PLC-based control software for industrial automation systems. Reporting to the Director of Industrial Control Systems R&D, this role combines hands-on technical leadership with people management, project delivery accountability, and cross-functional collaboration.

What you’ll do

Directly manage a team of 6–8 PLC R&D Controls Engineers, providing day-to-day guidance and technical direction.
Own delivery of PLC software milestones across multiple projects and programs.
Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, goal setting, and career development planning.
Communicate status, risks, and technical tradeoffs clearly to stakeholders.
Lead prototyping, testing, validation, and documentation of new control system concepts and electrical designs.
Ensure high-quality, reliable, and maintainable PLC software design.
Promote best practices in modular programming, version control, diagnostics, and documentation.
Drive adoption of AI assisted programming, simulation, Digital Twins, and automated testing.
Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for complex or high-impact issues.

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field
Minimum of 7 years in industrial automation, controls engineering, and people management responsibility.
Hands-on expertise with Rockwell Automation PLC platforms, Motion Control, Safety PLC Systems, OT networking, and industrial communication protocols.
Experience with HMI/SCADA development, preferably Inductive Automation Ignition software.
Exposure to AI assisted PLC code development, simulation tools, Digital Twins, and automated PLC testing.
Ability to balance hands-on technical work with people leadership responsibilities.
Strong communication and organizational skills.

Our environment

Up to 60% of travel may be required. Employees must have a valid driver’s license and the ability to drive and/or fly to client locations and company HQ.
Up to 25% travel may be required for employees located in proximity to our HQ in Wilmington, MA.
The employee is responsible for owning a credit card and managing expenses personally to be reimbursed on a bi-weekly basis.

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The base range for this position in the posted location is $149,000.00 - $204,600.00 however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes medical, dental, vision, disability, 401K, PTO and/or other benefits.

Manager, Industrial Controls Engineering