Title: Senior Controls / Automation Technician — PLC/SCADA/HMI
Location: Santa Clara, CA (Onsite)
Employment Type: W-2 Contract
Duration: 12 months
Openings: 1 opening
About the Role
We are placing a Senior Controls Technician on a long-term contract at a state-of-the-art semiconductor production facility in Santa Clara, California. You will design, develop, and lead the implementation of complex industrial automation systems — from advanced PLC programming to HMI/SCADA architecture and full project lifecycle ownership.
This is a high-impact role where you will mentor junior engineers, lead commissioning activities, and ensure high-quality, scalable automation solutions in one of the most technically demanding environments in the industry. Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop advanced PLC programs using structured, modular, scalable architectures
- Lead development of HMI/SCADA systems (usability, performance, reliability)
- Architect full automation solutions: PLC, HMI, SCADA, networks, and field devices
- Oversee system integration with databases, historians, and enterprise systems
- Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for complex system failures
- Manage system testing, validation, and onsite commissioning
- Establish and enforce PLC/HMI programming standards and best practices
- Mentor and guide junior and intermediate engineers
- Ensure compliance with safety standards, regulations, and cybersecurity practices
Required Skills & Experience
- 8+ years of experience in PLC/HMI programming or industrial automation
- Expert-level PLC programming across one or more platforms
- Experience leading automation projects and system commissioning
- Strong knowledge of control system design, electrical systems, and industrial processes
- Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent experience)
Preferred Qualifications
- Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000, ControlLogix), Siemens (TIA Portal, S7), or Emerson (Machine Edition)
- SCADA platforms: Ignition, FactoryTalk, WinCC, Cimplicity
- Industrial protocols: EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, OPC UA
- Motion control, robotics, and high-speed automation systems
- MES integration, SQL databases, and IIoT systems
- Safety PLCs and functional safety standards (SIL, ISO)
- Industrial cybersecurity practices
- Semiconductor manufacturing environment experience
Additional Details
- Onsite position — must be able to commute to or relocate to Santa Clara, CA
- After-hours on-call support may be occasionally required
- Must pass background check and drug screening
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S. — no visa sponsorship
Pay: From $37.57 per hour
Work Location: In person
