Principal Controls Engineer (PLC/SCADA – Renewables)

AP Recruiters & Associates • Remote (Florida) • 1w ago

Principal Controls Engineer (PLC/SCADA – Renewables)- Remote

Location: Remote (U.S.) with Travel to Juno Beach, FL
Duration: Contract (11+ Months)
Schedule: Monday–Friday (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Travel: Up to 25% (Project sites + Juno Beach, FL)
Driving Required: Yes

Overview

Our client, a leading energy infrastructure and renewable energy developer, is seeking a Lead Controls & SCADA Engineer to support utility-scale energy projects across solar, BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems), and power generation assets.

This is a high-impact, remote role with periodic travel, where you will serve as the technical lead for controls systems, PLC programming, and SCADA integration. You will play a critical role in ensuring system performance, grid compliance, and successful commissioning of large-scale energy projects.

Key Responsibilities

Lead design, development, and deployment of PLC and SCADA systems for utility-scale energy projects
Act as the technical authority for controls engineering, system integration, and commissioning
Develop and support:
- PLC programming (Schneider Electric preferred)
- SCADA systems (Ignition platform)
- HMI development and validation
- Industrial protocols (Modbus, DNP3)
Oversee integration across:
- Inverters
- BESS systems
- Substations
- Grid control and monitoring systems
Ensure compliance with:
- PPA, LGIA, and OEM testing requirements
- Utility and interconnection standards
Lead and support:
- FAT (Factory Acceptance Testing)
- SAT (Site Acceptance Testing)
- Commissioning and system validation
Troubleshoot and resolve complex system and integration issues
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, SCADA, construction, and operations
Provide oversight to vendors, contractors, and third-party integrators
Support documentation, reporting, and adherence to engineering standards

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
11–15+ years of experience in PLC programming and industrial control systems
Strong experience with Schneider Electric PLC platforms
Deep knowledge of:
- SCADA systems (Ignition preferred)
- HMI development
- Industrial communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3)
Strong understanding of:
- Power systems and grid integration
- Utility-scale renewable energy projects
Experience with:
- FAT/SAT testing
- Commissioning processes
- System integration
Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and inverter technologies
Familiarity with NERC CIP cybersecurity standards
Experience working with interconnection processes and utility requirements
Proven leadership experience on large-scale energy projects