Principal Controls Software Engineer

Principal Controls Software Engineer

Company Overview

Founded in 2007, CCA is a leading provider of electrical, automation, and controls solutions across industrial and commercial sectors. We offer end-to-end capabilities, from design and technology development to full system implementation, ensuring seamless, tailored project delivery. Known for our precision in budgeting and scheduling, unwavering commitment to customer service, and flawless execution, we have built a strong reputation as a trusted partner in complex projects.

CCA has experienced exceptional growth and is poised for continued expansion across Canada and the United States. We are actively exploring opportunities to grow our geographic footprint, support small and medium enterprises, expand after-market service offerings, and serve new industry verticals.

Location: Remote

Full-Time | Permanent |Pay Range 120K-160K

Job Overview

This is a senior technical leadership role, not just a programming position. As Principal Controls Software Engineer, you will own CCA's controls software architecture, set the standard for how we program and deploy automation systems, and be the go-to technical resource for PLC, HMI, and SCADA work across all projects.

You'll work closely with our Engineering, Project Management, and Electrical Design teams to deliver automation solutions for some of the most technically demanding projects in our portfolio, including large-scale material handling systems, conveyor automation, and custom industrial applications. This role is fully remote, with travel to client sites for commissioning and startup activities as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Own CCA's controls software architecture, define how we design, build, and deploy PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems across all projects
• Establish and maintain programming standards, software libraries, and reusable code templates that improve consistency and reduce rework
• Review software developed by the engineering team before deployment to ensure quality, safety, and alignment with CCA standards
• Evaluate and implement new automation technologies, platforms, and best practices as the industry evolves
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on reducing commissioning time, improving software quality, and increasing code reusability across the project portfolio
• Lead the design, development, and implementation of PLC, HMI, and SCADA software on active projects;
• Lead commissioning activities; FAT, SAT, and site startup, providing hands-on technical support and troubleshooting
• Support project estimating by defining software scope, programming effort, and technical risk;
• Maintain software version control and documentation throughout the project lifecycle; and
• Provide customer-facing technical support during startup, commissioning, and handover.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior and intermediate engineers on the controls team;
• Collaborate closely with Electrical Design, Project Management, and Manufacturing to ensure smooth, on-time project delivery; and
• Serve as the primary technical resource for controls software questions, decisions, and escalations across the organization.

Qualifications

• Education: Degree or diploma in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related discipline (or equivalent practical experience)
• Experience: 8+ years of hands-on industrial automation experience, with at least 5 years in a senior or lead controls engineering role
• PLC Programming: Minimum 8 years of hands-on PLC programming and troubleshooting experience (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, or equivalent)
• AutoCAD: Minimum 8 years of experience with AutoCAD for electrical schematics and panel layout design
• Material Handling/Automotive: Experience with large-scale material handling systems, conveyor automation, or automotive assembly automation is a significant advantage
• SCADA: Experience with FactoryTalk Historian, Ignition, or other SCADA platforms
• Proven ability to establish and maintain programming standards, software libraries, and version control practices
• Strong commissioning experience including FAT, SAT, and site startup on complex systems
• Extensive experience with industrial automation platforms such as Rockwell Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View, Ethernet/IP, safety PLCs, motion control, servo systems, VFDs, and industrial networking
• Experience working in a project-based engineering services environment (vs. a single end-user environment).
• Experience with simulation & testing platforms such as Emulate3D and Echo is an advantage.
• Ability to travel to client sites in Canada and the United States as required for project commissioning and startup.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• RRSP contribution program.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• A collaborative, supportive, and team-driven work environment.
• The opportunity to contribute to a growing, community-focused company.

Pay: $120,000.00-$160,000.00 per year

Work Location: Remote