Lead Controls Engineer – Energy & Central Utility Systems

Thermo Systems

. Lead complex control system design, including system architecture, I/O design, instrumentation, sequences of operation, PLC/HMI/SCADA integration, and engineering documentation .

Posted 10/8/2026full-timeRemote • United StatesSenior💰 $120,000 - $170,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in leading complex control system design and engineering processes, with a strong focus on technical leadership, project management, and compliance with engineering standards. Capable of mentoring engineers and effectively communicating technical information in high-pressure environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Control System ArchitecturePLC/HMI/SCADA IntegrationProfessional Engineering (PE) LicenseThermal Energy Systems ExperienceProject Management

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Control System DesignI/O DesignInstrumentationFAT/SATStartup and CommissioningTechnical DocumentationEngineering StandardsQuality Management System (QMS)Analytical SkillsTroubleshooting

Soft Skills

Technical LeadershipCommunicationDecision-MakingMentoringCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

ChillersCooling TowersBoilersHeat Recovery SystemsThermal Energy StorageHeat PumpsGeneratorsSwitchgear

Certifications & Qualifications

Professional Engineering (PE) LicenseRelevant Industry Certifications

Industry Keywords

Controls EngineeringThermal EnergyCentral UtilityPower GenerationComplex Process Environments

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead complex control system design, including system architecture, I/O design, instrumentation, sequences of operation, PLC/HMI/SCADA integration, and engineering documentation
Provide technical leadership throughout design, FAT/SAT, startup, commissioning, and system troubleshooting
Review technical deliverables for accuracy, consistency, compliance, and engineering quality
Serve as a technical authority on complex thermal, electrical, and balance-of-plant control systems
Apply and reinforce engineering standards, documentation requirements, and quality processes through the QMS
Identify opportunities to improve system design, technical standards, and engineering processes
Lead engineering efforts across multiple projects and provide technical direction to other controls engineers
Lead full project lifecycles or major technical workstreams from design through commissioning
Collaborate with project managers to manage scope, schedule, budget, risk, and technical execution
Delegate work effectively and support the development of less-experienced engineers
Identify scope changes, technical risks, and potential business opportunities
Support technical proposals, estimates, and presentations as needed
Serve as a trusted technical resource and primary engineering contact for customers when assigned
Communicate complex technical information clearly and professionally
Understand and follow customer-specific standards, procedures, and project requirements
Provide responsive problem-solving support and follow through on commitments

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field, or equivalent relevant experience
10+ years of progressive controls engineering experience
3+ years operating at a senior or Control Engineer III-equivalent level
Professional Engineering (PE) license and/or relevant industry certifications preferred
Significant controls experience within thermal energy, central utility, power generation, or comparable complex process environments
Hands-on experience with chillers, cooling towers, boilers, heat recovery systems, thermal energy storage, heat pumps, generators, switchgear, and associated balance-of-plant systems
Advanced experience with control system architecture, I/O design, instrumentation, PLC/HMI/SCADA systems, FAT/SAT, startup, and commissioning
Strong understanding of engineering standards, quality processes, technical documentation, and QMS requirements
Demonstrated ability to lead complex technical decisions and provide engineering direction to others
Strong analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and decision-making skills
Ability to mentor engineers, collaborate across teams, and remain effective in complex or high-pressure project environments
Up to 50% overnight travel may be required
Participation in on-call rotation as needed
Valid driver's license required
Must be fit for duty at all times
Authorization to work in the country of employment required

Benefits

Comp & perks

Annual bonus opportunity
401(k) with company match
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with low-cost options
Paid time off and sick leave
Tuition reimbursement and professional credential support
In-house and external technical training opportunities
Exposure to complex, high-impact automation projects
Collaborative culture built on integrity, accountability, and teamwork