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Lead Automation Engineer

We are currently seeking a motivated individual to be a part of our growing Powell Automation Division (PAD). This exciting position allows the ability to not only grow professionally but also fuel the future presence of PAD in the automation space! As a member of PAD you will work and collaborate with diverse professionals to apply innovative and creative solutions to solve problems for our clients. Key responsibilities include working closing with the engineering team to create custom and semi-custom drawing packages using AutoCAD for automation solutions as well as intelligent products in HMI/SCADA applications.

Posted position does not provide visa sponsorship or relocation.

Required Experience Is Proportionate With the Selected Job Level

  • The Engineer level requires a Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and 0-3 years of relevant job related experience
  • The Senior Engineer level requires a Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and 4-8 years of relevant job related experience
  • The Lead Engineer level requires Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline and 7-10 years of relevant job related experience

Essential Responsibilities

  • Design various automation control panels with guidance.
  • Read and interpret customer job specifications.
  • Develop detailed Bills of material for automation control panels.
  • Create electrical AutoCAD drawings.
  • Transmit drawings to shop and customer.
  • Interface with project management, customer (with supervisor) and shop.
  • Completed task are check by more senior engineers.
  • Coordination with Project Management throughout the project
  • Constant contact with production to answer questions and provide clarification and/or authorization on design changes
  • Follow standard engineering processes and timelines.
  • Work on multiple projects simultaneously and manage workload as per priority
  • Provide technical assistance as necessary to sales, engineering and inspection teams
  • Assist with and solve problems of other production engineers on a daily basis.
  • Learn policies and procedures, work instruction, ISO policies, Safety Rules and Regulations, and vendor products.

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Technology or related area
  • Minimum 5+ years of experience in an Engineering role.
  • Advanced drafting/CAD skills.
  • Proficient with electrical design, circuitry, and communication circuitry.
  • Basic understanding of power system and HMI/SCADA applications as applied to products.

Skills, Abilities & Other Requirements

  • Basic computer skills using Oracle, Word, Excel.
  • Ability to learn/use Primavera P6 to update project status and keep all assigned projects on schedule
  • Ability to read customer specifications, compare to the quote and provide technical feedback to project management and the customer on differences with minimal supervision.
  • Basic understanding to being very proficient at job reviews (i.e., acquired knowledge of specs that Powell should take exception to and specs that require special attention; able to accurately interpret customer specs, etc.)
  • Apply technical documents to develop electrical drawings using AutoCAD.
  • Apply cost competitive techniques to develop the most cost-effective solution for the engineered to order product.
  • Able to apply NEC, ANSI/IEEE, and various other codes as it applies to the day-to-day activity
  • Basic to thorough understanding of power system application along with HMI/SCADA application and coordination.
  • Able to understand, interpret and troubleshoot customer needs and problems.

Working & Environmental Conditions

  • The employee typically performs duties in a normal office environment. There will be some work in a shop environment and exposure to the elements of our shop.
  • It is the policy of Powell Industries to promote safe working conditions for ALL employees, to make available where necessary special equipment to protect employees against specific hazards, to reduce accidents through prevention programs and to establish rules that are designed for the safety of all. It is the responsibility of each employee to adhere to this policy, as well as to observe all safety practices and exercise every precaution for the safety of accidents.
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an 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 regularly required to use hands to finger, handle, feel, carry or operate objects, tools or controls and reach with hands and arms. The employee frequently is required to stand; talk or hear; walk; sit. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

More Information

This job description outlines the essential functions of the job and does not contain a comprehensive list of all possible responsibilities, tasks, and duties.

In our 75+ year history, Powell has always known that our employees are at the heart of our success. Without question, we have the most talented people in all parts of our organization. As a manufacturer, we recruit and hire experienced and knowledgeable applicants to ensure our product is engineered, fabricated, and assembled to customer specifications! Powell's culture has and will always be founded in our "can do" attitude. If we can imagine it, we can do it. Become a part of our story and let us help you write yours. Hard work pays off in all our teams, with opportunity for advancement and promotion without sacrificing work-life balance. Successful candidates must have a legal authorization to work in the United States on a full-time basis, with only those candidates selected for interview contacted. Powell offers comprehensive health insurance for you and your family, 401k savings, annual bonus potential, generous paid time off, professional development opportunities, company-sponsored wellness programs, and a collaborative work environment. EOE Protected Veterans/Disability If you need an accommodation in the hiring process, you may contact . Application status inquiries will not be accepted in this manner.
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What You Should Know About Lead Automation Engineer, Powell Industries

Are you ready to lead the way in automation innovation? Join Powell Industries as a Lead Automation Engineer and help shape the future of our Powell Automation Division (PAD). This is an exciting opportunity located in Houston, TX, where you will collaborate with a diverse group of talented professionals dedicated to developing innovative automation solutions for our clients. Your key responsibilities will include working closely with our engineering team to create customized drawing packages using AutoCAD for HMI/SCADA applications. You'll dive into design tasks such as developing automation control panels, interpreting customer specifications, and ensuring everything matches high standards. With a solid foundation of at least 5 years in engineering, your advanced drafting skills and knowledge of electrical design will shine as you tackle multiple projects simultaneously. Not only will you be contributing technically, but you'll also actively communicate with project management, providing clarifications and arranging design changes as needed. Powell Industries values your safety and well-being, promoting a culture that prioritizes safe working conditions while delivering excellence in engineering. As a Lead Automation Engineer at Powell, not only do you get to bring your technical expertise to the table, but you’ll also enjoy perks like comprehensive health insurance and opportunities for professional development. If this sounds like a place where you'd thrive and grow, we look forward to welcoming you to our team!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lead Automation Engineer Role at Powell Industries
What are the main responsibilities of a Lead Automation Engineer at Powell Industries?

As a Lead Automation Engineer at Powell Industries, your primary responsibilities will include designing automation control panels, creating detailed AutoCAD drawings, and collaborating with the engineering team and project management. You'll also work on interpreting customer specifications and providing technical feedback, ensuring that all solutions meet quality requirements while adhering to deadlines.

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What qualifications are needed to apply for the Lead Automation Engineer position at Powell Industries?

To apply for the Lead Automation Engineer position at Powell Industries, you must possess a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of relevant engineering experience. Proficiency in electrical design, advanced drafting skills, and a strong understanding of HMI/SCADA applications are essential for success in this role.

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How does a Lead Automation Engineer at Powell Industries interact with other teams?

In your role as a Lead Automation Engineer at Powell Industries, you will frequently interface with project management, shop personnel, and sales teams. This collaborative approach ensures that all aspects of the project align with customer needs and specifications, allowing for timely clarifications, design changes, and production assistance.

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What opportunities for advancement exist for Lead Automation Engineers at Powell Industries?

Powell Industries believes in nurturing talent and promoting from within, providing excellent opportunities for advancement for Lead Automation Engineers. With a commitment to professional development and a culture that encourages growth, successful individuals can progress to more senior engineering roles or take on leadership positions within projects.

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What is the work environment like for a Lead Automation Engineer at Powell Industries?

At Powell Industries, the work environment for a Lead Automation Engineer is typically office-based, with some time spent in the shop environment. You'll experience a collaborative atmosphere that prioritizes safety, innovation, and excellence, alongside a team that values the contribution of each member in delivering high-quality automation solutions.

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Common Interview Questions for Lead Automation Engineer
Can you describe your experience with AutoCAD and how it's relevant to the Lead Automation Engineer role?

Certainly! Discuss your proficiency in AutoCAD by providing specific examples of projects where you successfully created detailed electrical drawings. Share how these experiences have shaped your ability to design automation control panels and address customer specifications effectively.

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What methods do you use to prioritize multiple engineering projects?

When prioritizing multiple engineering projects, I assess deadlines, project requirements, and resource availability. I utilize project management tools like Primavera P6 to track status and ensure timely completion, keeping open communication with team members to adjust priorities when needed.

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How do you ensure compliance with engineering standards and customer specifications?

I ensure compliance by regularly reviewing project specifications, utilizing industry codes like NEC and ANSI/IEEE, and conducting thorough checks of my designs with senior engineers. I maintain constant communication with project management for updates and clarifications.

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How do you handle design changes during a project?

I approach design changes methodically by assessing the impact on the overall project and discussing potential solutions with relevant team members. I ensure that any changes are documented and communicated to the customer promptly to maintain transparency and project alignment.

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What strategies do you employ to communicate technical information to non-engineering stakeholders?

I adapt my communication style based on the audience's knowledge level, using visuals and straightforward explanations to convey complex technical concepts. By focusing on the implications of the information rather than the technical jargon, I ensure clarity and understanding.

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Can you provide an example of a challenging project you worked on and how you overcame obstacles?

In a previous role, I faced a tight deadline on a complex automation project. I overcame this by implementing efficient workflows, coordinating closely with team members, and reallocating resources where necessary. Our team’s collaborative effort ultimately led to a successful on-time delivery.

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How do you stay updated on industry trends and technologies?

To stay updated on industry trends, I regularly read engineering publications, attend webinars and conferences, and participate in professional organizations. Networking with peers in the automation sector also provides valuable insights into emerging technologies.

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What role does teamwork play in your approach to engineering projects?

Teamwork is essential in engineering projects, as it fosters collaboration and innovation. I believe in leveraging each team member's strengths and maintaining open communication to solve complex problems more effectively and deliver high-quality outputs.

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How do you approach problem-solving in technical contexts?

My approach to problem-solving involves identifying the root cause, brainstorming potential solutions, and evaluating each option's feasibility and impact. I rely on data and experience to inform my decisions and collaborate with peers for diverse perspectives.

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What motivates you as a Lead Automation Engineer?

I am motivated by the challenge of designing innovative automation solutions and the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects. Seeing my designs help clients achieve their goals and improve processes inspires me to continuously grow in my field.

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Powered by Innovation - Powell’s culture has and will always be founded in our "can do" attitude. If we can imagine it, we can do it. Powered by Service - Powell’s goal is to be the company that customers call when it absolutely has to be done r...

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 14, 2025

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