Lead HMI Software Engineer
Location: Houston, TX
Employment Type: Contract-to- Perm

Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Lead HMI Software Engineer to support the development, enhancement, and deployment of Human‑Machine Interface (HMI) software for industrial control systems. This role plays a key leadership function in delivering high‑quality software solutions, driving projects from concept through lifecycle completion, and collaborating closely with cross‑functional engineering teams.
The ideal candidate brings strong technical expertise in HMI/SCADA systems, a hands‑on approach to development, and the ability to guide technical direction while influencing team outcomes.
Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, debug, and maintain HMI screens for industrial control systems
• Lead end‑to‑end software development across the project lifecycle, including requirements gathering, design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance
• Execute software projects using agile methodologies while adhering to engineering and quality standards
• Develop automation tools to improve development efficiency and code quality
• Support and facilitate testing programs in a controls or lab environment
• Configure, load, and maintain hardware and software system configurations
• Produce technical documentation and handover packages in alignment with engineering procedures
• Provide clear and timely communication regarding project status, risks, and technical issues
• Support DevOps activities for ongoing system improvements and maintenance
• Collaborate with stakeholders to present and advocate for technical architecture and design decisions

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
  • OR equivalent professional experience (minimum 6 years total applicable experience)
• Strong experience designing and developing HMI/SCADA software with a focus on high‑performance UI/UX
• Advanced working knowledge of:
  • WinCC OA
  • TIA Portal
  • Version control systems (e.g., Git)
  • Task tracking and collaboration platforms (e.g., Azure DevOps, JIRA, Confluence)
• Proven ability to lead technically, influence team outcomes, and manage multiple priorities
• Strong communication, documentation, and presentation skills
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast‑paced engineering environment

Preferred / Desired Skills

• Front‑end development experience for web‑based applications
• Proficiency with one or more of the following:
  • Programming Languages: JavaScript, HTML5, CSS, Java, SQL, Python, PowerShell
  • Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, NoSQL
  • Frameworks: Spring, Hibernate, Angular, JBoss/WildFly
  • Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure
  • DevOps & Tools: Maven, Jenkins, Selenium, Grafana, JUnit
  • Mobile Frameworks: iOS, Android, React Native (or similar)
• Industry experience with industrial automation, energy, manufacturing, or heavy‑equipment environments
• Knowledge of secure coding practices and industrial cybersecurity standards (e.g., IEC 62443)
• Ability to identify and recommend technical improvements that enhance product performance and user satisfaction

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.