Controls Programmer

Company: BIOFerm
Location: Madison
Posted on: February 11, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description BIOFerm™ is currently looking for a Controls Programmer. The Controls Programmer is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining the automation and control systems that power BIOFerm’s renewable energy facilities. This role focuses on PLC, HMI, and SCADA programming, firmware design, and control logic development for complex process systems. The ideal candidate has strong programming and troubleshooting experience within industrial control environments, particularly with Siemens platforms, and thrives in a hands-on engineering setting. BIOFerm™ is a Wisconsin-based renewable energy company specializing in turnkey anaerobic digestion and biogas upgrading facilities. Our mission is to provide sustainable and economical solutions for organic waste diversion, transforming food waste, manure, biosolids, and other organic materials into renewable natural gas (RNG), green energy, vehicle fuel, heat, and organic products. Key Responsibilities: Design and program automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA interfaces, for anaerobic digestion and renewable energy plants. Develop and document firmware architecture and control logic for new and existing systems. Configure, test, and deploy Siemens-based controls, including Simatic S7 and TIA Portal systems. Develop user interfaces to ensure intuitive plant operation, monitoring, and diagnostics. Define start-up, commissioning, and validation strategies; lead or support field commissioning activities. Integrate instrumentation, sensors, and process equipment into automated control systems. Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and process engineering teams to ensure consistent control functionality and system performance. Troubleshoot automation issues remotely and on-site, providing fast and effective resolutions. Coordinate with vendors and integrators to specify, select, and validate hardware and software components. Maintain all software and configuration documentation, including code version control and change tracking. Support continuous improvement by developing standard templates and reusable program modules. Ensure compliance with internal standards and relevant safety or regulatory codes. Travel to project sites for commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer training as needed. Complete additional tasks as assigned. Competencies & Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Computer, Software, Electrical, Chemical or Automation Engineering; or professional training in industrial programming. 10 years of experience programming and supporting industrial automation systems with particular focus on PSA and membrane systems. Strong proficiency in Siemens Simatic S7, STEP 7, and TIA Portal (required). Experience with Ladder Logic, Function Block, Structured Text, and SCADA programming. Familiarity with RSLogix (5, 500, 5000), Studio 5000, FactoryTalk, and WinCC is a plus. Understanding of automation networks, drive systems, instrumentation integration, and industrial communication protocols. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to work independently. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Detail-oriented with a focus on documentation, version control, and code quality. Willingness to travel up to 20%. Valid U.S. driver’s license. Valid authorization to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship. Compensation & Benefits: Compensation is based on experience and is competitive. BIOFerm™ offers a comprehensive benefits package. To be considered for this position, please submit your cover letter, resume, and salary requirements. To learn more about BIOFerm™ and other positions available, please explore our website at BIOFermEPC.com.

Keywords: BIOFerm, Arlington Heights , Controls Programmer, Engineering , Madison, Illinois