Vice President of Controls

POSITION OVERVIEW The Vice President of Controls is the executive leader responsible for defining and driving the controls and automation strategy across the Mission Critical's modular power and infrastructure product platforms. This role oversees the full lifecycle of all controls-related systems-including unit-level controls, integrated skid automation, building automation systems (Client/Client), electrical power monitoring systems (EPMS), thermal control systems, PLC architectures, and site-level integration-supporting both factory-built modular solutions and field deployment. The VP ensures that all products are delivered with repeatable, modular, secure, scalable, and interoperable control architectures. This leader partners closely with Product Engineering, Manufacturing, Construction, Commissioning, and Service teams to deliver integrated, standards-based, future-ready automation systems optimized for high-density, mission-critical environments. Key Responsibilities Strategic Controls Leadership Define and execute the enterprise-wide controls and automation strategy across all modular product lines. Develop multi-year roadmaps for automation, digital integration, remote monitoring, and energy optimization. Standardize control architecture, hardware platforms, communication protocols, and sequences of operations. Align controls strategy with product standardization, manufacturability, and speed-to-market objectives. Interface with Product Development and R&D teams to evaluate emerging technologies and integration models. Controls Architecture & Platform Ownership Own the design and standardization of: Unit-level PLC controls (skids, switchgear, power modules, cooling modules) Integrated Client/Client platforms EPMS integration and supervisory dashboards Site-level integration layers and gateway strategies Lead adoption and standardization of: Beckhoff PLC and IPC-based control architectures for modular equipment automation Niagara Framework (JACE) for supervisory integration, multi-vendor interoperability, and enterprise visibility Distech Controls platforms for building-level integration and field device control Ensure all systems leverage open protocols (BACnet, Modbus, OPC UA, MQTT) and vendor-agnostic architecture where appropriate. Drive modular, plug-and-play deployment models to align with factory-built product philosophy. Establish cybersecurity standards for all deployed control systems. Product & Manufacturing Integration Develop factory testing requirements for unit-level controls and system-level integrated controls. Oversee development of standardized control panels, I/O architectures, and programming libraries. Ensure controls packages are production-ready and scalable within manufacturing workflows. Align controls programming standards with product configuration management. Project Delivery & Commissioning Oversight Provide executive oversight of controls engineering, programming, installation support, and commissioning activities. Implement repeatable commissioning models for integrated controls validation. Partner with Construction and Commissioning teams to ensure smooth startup and integrated systems testing. Resolve escalations related to sequencing, integration conflicts, vendor performance, or interoperability issues. Operational & Lifecycle Strategy Define transition strategy from project delivery to client operations. Ensure delivery of complete documentation packages (as-builts, programming backups, network architecture, sequences, training materials). Support lifecycle planning, upgrades, remote monitoring solutions, and future expansion capability. Integrate UPS, switchgear, generators, cooling systems, and renewable/on-site power into unified automation frameworks. Leadership, Teams & Culture Build and lead a high-performing controls engineering organization. Develop standardized programming libraries and governance models. Establish strategic partnerships with automation OEMs, integrators, and commissioning firms. Foster a culture of technical rigor, modular discipline, and continuous improvement. Qualifications Required 15+ years of experience in controls engineering, automation, or building systems in mission-critical environments. Demonstrated leadership managing distributed engineering teams across multiple projects or regions. Deep understanding of MEP systems, power systems integration, and control interactions. Proven experience standardizing and scaling controls platforms across product lines. Hands-on experience supporting installation, startup, and commissioning. Preferred Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering. Experience with modular manufacturing or prefabricated infrastructure solutions. Direct experience with: Beckhoff PLC and IPC systems Niagara Framework (JACE) integration platforms Distech Controls building automation systems Familiarity with cybersecurity best practices for OT environments. Experience with high-density cooling, liquid cooling, and advanced thermal systems. CORE SKILLS & CAPABILITIES Executive Leadership Proven ability to lead leaders and influence executive stakeholders. Strong alignment of controls strategy with product and manufacturing strategy. Technical & Operational Acumen Deep understanding of PLC programming, building automation, and power monitoring integration. Expertise in open-protocol integration and multi-system interoperability. Knowledge of UPS, switchgear, generator, cooling, chillers, and microgrid control logic. Strategic Communication Ability to translate automation architecture into commercial, operational, and risk-based decisions. Executive presence with strong stakeholder management skills. Innovation & Execution Ability to drive scalable automation architecture in fast-paced environments. Partner with Product Engineering and OEMs to co-develop modular controls platforms tailored to hyperscale and mission-critical applications. Success Indicators Standardized modular controls platform across all product lines. Reduced commissioning conflicts and improved startup timelines. High level of interoperability between unit controls and site-level systems. Strong cybersecurity posture across deployed automation platforms. Improved energy visibility, operational analytics, and client satisfaction. Scalable, high-performing controls engineering team aligned with product growth.

Created: 2026-03-10