> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/165926-principal-automation-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/165926-principal-automation-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Automation Engineer - **Company:** PEAK Technical Services Inc. - **Location:** Monrovia, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $155,000.0 - $195,000.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** .NET Framework, Agile Methodology, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision, Automation of Tests, Microsoft Azure, Fieldbus, Code Review, Communications Protocols, Distributed Systems, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Machine Learning, Windows Presentation Foundation, Modbus, Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT), OpenCV, Software Architecture, Tensorflow, Rslogix, OPC Unified Architecture, Software Engineering, Software Systems, Systems Integration, TCP/IP, Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Windows Forms, Computer Networking Systems, Pytorch, Information Technology, HMI Screens, Machine Learning Operations, Win CC - **Published:** May 19, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=e16d15648285e1b5 ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in engineering, Computer Science, or related STEM field * Master's or PhD preferred * 10+ years of experience in automation, controls, or software architecture * Expert-level C# and .NET development experience * Strong experience with Rockwell Automation (Studio 5000, RSLogix 500/5000) * Deep knowledge of industrial automation, controls, SCADA, and distributed systems * Experience with FactoryTalk View and PLC-to-software integration * Experience with machine vision, AI/ML, or computer vision systems * Experience with industrial communication protocols (Modbus, OPC-UA, TCP/IP, Serial, etc.) * Project management training (PMI, Agile, etc.) preferred, The physical and mental requirements described in this job description are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to perform the essential physical functions of the position, including sitting, standing, walking, stooping, kneeling, and lifting up to 25 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. ## Description We are seeking a Principal Automation Engineer to serve as the senior technical authority for software architecture, advanced controls, machine vision, AI/ML systems, and high-reliability industrial automation platforms. This role operates with minimal supervision and sets the technical direction across multidisciplinary engineering teams. The Principal Engineer will lead architecture decisions, software development, and system integration for complex automation projects including SCADA, PLC, motion control, IIoT, and machine learning applications., Engineering & Automation Development * Architect and develop advanced software systems for industrial automation, motion control, machine vision, SCADA, and safety systems * Design SCADA / HMI systems for visualization, alarms, diagnostics, and remote operation * Develop plant-wide data acquisition and networking systems (FactoryTalk, IIoT, MQTT, OPC-UA) * Build machine learning and AI applications using PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV, or HALCON * Develop computer vision systems for inspection, anomaly detection, and automation optimization * Design real-time integrations with PLCs, CNCs, motion controllers, and industrial networks * Implement industrial communication protocols (Modbus TCP, OPC-UA, TCP/IP, Serial, Fieldbus) * Integrate edge AI hardware, accelerators, and embedded inference engines * Ensure compliance with UL, CE, NFPA, and industrial safety standards * Develop operator interfaces using .NET, WinForms, WPF, and industrial HMI platforms * Establish software architecture standards, reusable libraries, and frameworks * Use Azure DevOps for task tracking, backlog management, and code review Project Engineering: * Work cross-functionally with engineering, production, QA, sales, and program management * Prepare software interface documentation and functional specifications * Develop project schedules and track software development progress * Prepare engineering release and compliance documentation Technical Leadership: * Mentor controls and software engineers on architecture and best practices * Recommend improvements to software development methodology * Guide adoption of new automation, AI, and machine-vision technologies ## Related Videos - [Robots are coming into the wild! Full-Stack Robotics Engineers, be ready!](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/479-robots-are-coming-into-the-wild-full-stack-robotics-engineers-be-ready) - [Deepfakes in Realtime - How Neural Networks Are Changing Our World](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/180-deepfakes-in-realtime-how-neural-networks-are-changing-our-world) - [An Applied Introduction to eBPF with Go](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1075-an-applied-introduction-to-ebpf-with-go) - [Remote Driving on Plant Grounds with State-of-the-Art Cloud Technologies](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/251-remote-driving-on-plant-grounds-with-state-of-the-art-cloud-technologies) - [Unboxing the DeepFace](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/335-unboxing-the-deepface) - [Turning Container security up to 11 with Capabilities](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/718-turning-container-security-up-to-11-with-capabilities) ## Related Articles - [How to Become an AI Engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/331-how-to-become-an-ai-engineer) - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Is Software Engineering Over-Saturated?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/418-is-software-engineering-over-saturated) - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [Where To Find Software Engineering Jobs](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/396-where-to-find-software-engineering-jobs) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard)