Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Houston, TX (fully onsite)

Our client is a fast-growing, innovation-driven technology organization redefining how drilling operations are designed, controlled, and optimized. Their Technology Group is made up of passionate engineers who thrive on solving complex problems, building real-world systems, and seeing their work deployed on active rigs.

As a Senior Controls & Automation Engineer, you won’t just support systems—you’ll help architect, design, and evolve next-generation drilling control platforms that directly improve efficiency, safety, and performance in the field. This is a hands-on, high-impact role for an engineer who enjoys ownership, technical depth, and working at the intersection of software, hardware, and operations.

You’ll develop and sustain mission-critical control systems while collaborating with cross-functional teams to bring advanced automation concepts from idea to deployment.

You’ll play a key role in designing, testing, and deploying cutting-edge automation solutions, including:

• Drilling advisory systems that improve efficiency and decision-making

• Automation of complex, multi-step mechanical drilling tasks such as connections, reaming, and tripping

• Integration of advanced third-party technologies, including battery energy storage systems and managed pressure drilling solutions

Your work will directly influence how rigs operate—today and in the future.

• Design and develop PLC software, control algorithms, HMI applications, and system architectures for new and existing drilling systems

• Translate functional requirements into scalable, field-ready automation solutions

• Apply control theory and engineering fundamentals to create reliable, high-performance systems

• Produce detailed system, loop, block, and network diagrams, along with clear technical documentation

• Lead commissioning activities, support installations, and troubleshoot live systems alongside field teams

• Collaborate with Operations, Technical Services, HSE, contractors, and rig crews to execute R&D and production initiatives

• Provide expert-level technical support for PLC and control system issues

• Follow formal software change-management and revision-control processes to ensure system integrity

You’ll report directly to the Senior Manager of Controls & Automation and will be trusted to set a high technical bar for yourself and your projects.

• A strong, independent engineer who thrives in fast-moving, multi-project environments

• A problem-solver who enjoys translating complex challenges into elegant technical solutions

• A clear communicator who can work seamlessly with both technical teams and field personnel

• Someone who takes pride in quality, reliability, and real-world impact

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Controls & Automation, or similar)

• 7+ years of hands-on PLC programming experience (Siemens, Omron, or similar platforms)

• Strong experience with industrial communication protocols (Ether Net/IP, Profibus, Profinet, CANbus, OPC UA, etc.)

• Demonstrated HMI development experience (Ignition, WinCC, Wonderware, or similar)

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects while meeting demanding deadlines

• Advanced PLC programming (ladder logic, structured text, SFC, statement list)

• Controls and automation experience specific to drilling systems

• Battery management or energy storage system integration

• Experience working in multi-developer environments

• Familiarity with drilling-industry equipment and operations

• Up to 25% travel to rigs, yards, and operational sites

• Hands-on field involvement, including commissioning and troubleshooting

• Ability to work in industrial environments and safely navigate rig and yard sites

• Occasional after-hours or weekend support as needed

• High technical ownership and visibility

• Work on systems that are actively deployed—not theoretical

• Direct impact on drilling efficiency, automation, and innovation

• A team culture built around engineering excellence and continuous improvement

Work…