Senior Automation Software Engineer

As a master system integrator (MSI), Smart Tech Contracting excels in streamlining complex building automation system (BAS) and technology integrations, offering a comprehensive turnkey package that includes DDC, PLC, and SCADA solutions.

We offer systems design, graphical standards development, central plant optimization (CPO), enterprise-level energy and operational monitoring, and robust alarming solutions. Our expertise in hyperscale and colocation data center integrations ensures seamless, efficient operations vital in today's data-driven world.

Are you a seasoned automation engineer ready to take charge of critical infrastructure? You'll lead end-to-end PLC development for Tier III/IV data centers up to 200MW, driving reliability and speed-to-market. This is your opportunity to own high-impact control systems in one of the most demanding, rewarding engineering environments in the world.

Signing Bonus up to $10k and New Hire Milestone Bonus up to $15k

*Position Title:*
Senior Automation Software Engineer – Critical Infrastructure

*Position Location:*
Must relocate to or live in Atlanta, GA area

*SALARY*
Smart Tech Contracting recognizes salary ranges from job boards do not necessarily reflect our pay ranges. In many instances we out-compete those ranges for well-qualified candidates.

Job Summary
The Senior Automation Software Engineer – Critical Infrastructure owns the complete PLC software life‑cycle for hyperscale and colocation data‑center campuses ranging from 10 MW to 200 MW+. You will architect, program, and lead level 2/3 commissioning of high‑availability PLC solutions that integrate mechanical, electrical, and IT/OT subsystems—ensuring Tier III/IV reliability while meeting aggressive speed‑to‑market schedules.

The Senior Automation Software Engineer – Critical Infrastructure will serve as the PLC subject‑matter expert (and secondary SME on SCADA development and SCADA integration) to ensure seamless hand‑offs, tag mapping, and site testing. You will Lead development of PLC logic, modular function blocks, state machines, and fault‑tolerant control strategies across multiple projects.

The Senior Automation Software Engineer – Critical Infrastructure will coordinate closely with field electricians, startup & commissioning technicians, and the SCADA Engineer to validate end‑to‑end data flow, alarms, and historian points. You will provide on‑site SME support during Level 2 through Level 5 Integrated Systems Testing (IST), troubleshooting complex field issues under go‑live pressure. You will Implement robust code‑management, simulation, and cybersecurity practices aligned with ISA/IEC 62443 and owner standards.

The Senior Automation Software Engineer – Critical Infrastructure will self-direct on day-to-day work and receives high level instruction on new projects, tasks or assignments. Will execute and lead teams and projects, tasks or assignments of complex scope. May coordinate activities of other personnel.

This person will communicate and operate in line with organizational goals and values, as well as departmental objectives.

Essential Functions
*PLC Software Development and Testing (65%)*

• Design, program, and debug PLC logic for chilled‑water plants, HVAC, CRAH/CRACs, fan wall systems, and liquid cooling solutions
• Build reusable library objects and automated test harnesses; perform Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
• Execute Level 2 & 3 panel checkout and Level 4 functional testing; generate corrective patches during Level 5 IST.

*Integration and Commissioning Support (20%)*

• Collaborate with SCADA Engineer to develop tag maps and naming conventions; configure BACnet/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC‑UA, and SNMP interfaces
• Support OT network validation (VLAN segmentation, redundant rings) and coordinate with owner IT for secure connectivity
• Guide field & commissioning technicians on sequencing, test scripts, and punch‑list resolution.

*Standards and Continuous Improvement (10%)*

• Maintain and evolve STC global PLC code standards, cybersecurity hardening checklists, and digital‑twin simulation workflows
• Evaluate emerging PLC platforms and developer toolchains to improve build velocity and quality.

*Mentorship and Reporting (5%)*

• Mentor junior programmers and apprentices; deliver knowledge‑transfer workshops for owner operations teams
• Manage team issues and KPI dashboards for internal and client reporting and continuous improvement

Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget

Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned

Requirements
*POSITION REQUIREMENTS (ADVANCED LEVEL FOR ALL THE FOLLOWING)*

• Technical Mastery: 10+ yrs hands‑on programming with Allen‑Bradley ControlLogix/CompactLogix
• Application experience: Demonstrated HVAC and / or process systems including chilled water plants and temperature, pressure and flow control implementation.
• Protocol Fluency: BACnet/IP, Modbus TCP, OPC‑UA, DNP3, SNMP, MQTT, RESTful APIs.
• Hyperscale Experience: Documented role on ≥50 MW data‑center builds or other 24×7 mission‑critical mega‑projects (pharma, semiconductor fab, LNG, aerospace, etc.).
• Toolchain: Studio 5000 Logix Designer, TIA Portal, Codesys, PLC simulators, Git/GitLab, Jira, Wireshark.
• Standards & Codes: Uptime Tier III/IV, NFPA 70E, ISA 88/95, ISA/IEC 62443, UL 508A, IEEE 3004.
• SCADA Familiarity: Working knowledge of Ignition, FactoryTalk View, AVEVA or VTScada for tag integration and testing (development performed by separate SCADA resource).
• Soft Skills: Clear client‑facing communication, rapid decision‑making, and calm execution in schedule‑compressed environments.
• Certifications (preferred): Rockwell Automation  CPIN or CREST, Cisco CCNA‑Industrial, NICET IV (Industrial Instrumentation), or ISA CAP.
• Knowledge of VLANs, LANs, VPNs and RSTP
• Knowledge of IoT and smart building solutions
• Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management
• Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail
• Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation
• Ability to work successfully in a remote environment thru effective communication and organizational skills, self-motivation, proactiveness and resourcefulness in a distraction free workspace
• Ability to follow company and site safety requirements
• Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence
• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information)
• Ability to communicate effectively directly with clients and at times serve as primary point of client contact
• Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with moderate supervision
• Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines
• Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others
• Ability to achieve certification for NFPA70E and / or OSHA training as / if required
• Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

*PHYSICAL DEMANDS*
The following physical demands must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is

• Frequently manipulating, moving or grasping small parts, devices or tools
• Frequently required to remain in a stationary position
• Frequently moving through office, critical facility and other environments (such as low temperatures, high temperatures and outdoor elements such as precipitation and wind), including tight and confined spaces
• Frequently descending / ascending stairs and ladders to access equipment
• On occasion the employee may be required to position self under or over equipment
• On occasion the employee may move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds

*TRAVEL / RELOCATION REQUIREMENTS*

• Up to 75%, this may include travel to any or all 50 US states
• Effective May 7, 2025, and in accordance with U.S. federal regulations for domestic air travel, a valid REAL ID (or an acceptable alternative, such as a passport) is required for travel associated with this position.
• Travel may involve transportation by car or plane depending on the destination and nature of the business need.
• Travel is defined as physically leaving home on behalf of business activities including but not limited to client sites, meetings with other employees, meetings for business development purposes, running errands on behalf of the business, attending industry conferences, etc.

Education / Experience Requirements

• Required: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline OR 12+ yrs progressive PLC programming experience.
• Experience: Minimum 8 yrs direct PLC programming plus 4 yrs commissioning/IST leadership on mission critical facilities.

Benefits
Smart Tech Contracting offers a very competitive benefits package; highlights include

• Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP w/ HSA option)
• Dental and vision plans
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits extended to spouse / domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26
• 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option
• PTO including additional paid time off during the last week of the year
• Company paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Short and long-term disability, AD&D coverage
• Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and professional licensing assistance
• Paid parental leave after one year of employment

Smart Tech Contracting is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and participates in the E-Verify program with the Department of Homeland Security. We encourage diversity in our workforce.

Are you ready to challenge yourself and redefine standards in the AEC industry? Apply now and join our award-winning team

Notice To Third Party Agencies
STC does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to STC in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where STC has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of STC and STC will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation – no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.