Controls Engineering Manager - Austin, TX metro

Merck Group$152K — $175K *
Technical Services
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of controls engineering experience with a focus on embedded systems or industrial automation
  • 2+ years of experience in people management leading engineering teams
  • Background in software development (C/C++, Python)
  • Proficiency with PLC programming and industrial automation systems (Siemens, Allen-Bradley)

Responsibilities

  • Oversee the architecture, design, and implementation of embedded systems and industrial automation solutions
  • Drive technical decisions and evaluate new embedded technologies and industrial platforms
  • Plan, execute, and deliver projects on time and within budget
  • Implement and improve development processes (Agile, Scrum, Kanban)
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of controls engineers
  • Foster a collaborative and high-performance team culture

Benefits

  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Retirement contributions
  • Opportunities for performance-based bonuses
Full Job Description
Location:

The Controls Engineering Manager is a hybrid position located in Austin, TX. There will be up to 10% domestic and international travel required to meet business needs.

Your Role:

We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineering Manager to lead our talented engineering team and drive the development of high-quality controls solutions. The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with strong leadership skills to mentor engineers, oversee project delivery, and contribute to our technical strategy.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Leadership
  • Oversee the architecture, design, and implementation of embedded systems and industrial automation solutions
  • Ensure adherence to coding standards, best practices, and quality metrics for embedded and PLC software
  • Drive technical decisions and evaluate new embedded technologies, microcontrollers, and industrial platforms
  • Lead code reviews and provide technical guidance for embedded systems, PLC programming, and IoT integration
  • Collaborate with product management to define technical requirements for industrial and embedded applications
  • Manage hardware-software integration and system validation processes


Project & Delivery Management
  • Plan, execute, and deliver projects on time and within budget
  • Work with cross-functional teams including Product, Design, and QA
  • Implement and improve development processes (Agile, Scrum, Kanban)
  • Monitor project progress, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies
  • Ensure proper documentation and knowledge sharing within the team


Strategy & Innovation
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation
  • Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies
  • Drive innovation and continuous improvement in engineering practices


Team Leadership & Management
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of controls engineers
  • Conduct regular 1:1 meetings, performance reviews, and career development planning
  • Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance team culture
  • Manage hiring, onboarding, and retention of engineering talent
  • Resolve team conflicts and remove obstacles to team success


Who You Are

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of controls engineering experience with focus on embedded systems or industrial automation
  • 2+ years of people management experience leading engineering teams


Preferred Qualifications:

Technical Skills
  • Background in software development (languages like C/C++, Python, etc.)
  • Experience with embedded systems development and real-time operating systems (RTOS)
  • Proficiency with PLC programming and industrial automation systems (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell, etc.)
  • Experience with microcontrollers and embedded platforms (ARM, STM32, ESP32, Arduino, etc.)
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (Modbus, CAN, Ethernet/IP, Profibus, etc.)
  • Familiarity with database systems, time-series databases, and data structures
  • Experience with hardware-software integration and system testing


Leadership Skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Ability to balance technical excellence with business objectives
  • Experience with talent acquisition and team building
  • Conflict resolution and negotiation skills


Other Preferred Skills
  • Master's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or related field
  • Experience managing distributed or remote teams
  • Background in industrial automation, manufacturing, or IoT systems
  • Experience with specific embedded technologies and PLC platforms relevant to our stack
  • Certifications in project management, agile methodologies, or industrial automation
  • Previous startup experience or experience in fast-growing companies
  • Experience with Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing, or Industrial IoT initiatives
  • Proven track record of delivering complex embedded systems or industrial automation projects
  • Experience with agile development methodologies in embedded/industrial environments


Pay range for this position: $152,600 - $175,000

The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

Stay Connected with Merck Group Careers

Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

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Merck Group is continuously looking for individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead in the global marketplace. Whether through full-time positions, internships, or leadership roles, Merck Group offers a career path filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership.
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