Controls Engineer

<h1>Senior Controls Engineer</h1> <p>Location: United States, Onsite</p> <p>We are a fast growing organisation in the space sector developing advanced test and production systems that support the build and qualification of high performance spacecraft hardware. We are looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who can design, implement and support the automation and control systems that drive our test infrastructure and production equipment.</p> <p>This role is ideal for someone who enjoys translating requirements into functional, reliable control logic, working directly with real hardware, and building automation systems that are robust, thoughtful and repeatable.</p> <h2>About The Role</h2> <p>The Senior Controls Engineer will take responsibility for control system architecture and implementation across a broad set of automated tools and test assets. The work involves both software and hardware integration and requires strong analytical thinking combined with hands on capability.</p> <h3>Key Responsibilities</h3> <p><strong>Control System Design</strong><br /> Design, implement and maintain control systems for both factory and test environments. This includes sensors, actuators, motor controllers, motion hardware and integrated safety systems.</p> <p><strong>Software Development</strong><br /> Develop Python based control software using our internal controls platform. This platform has been built over many years and follows a similar mindset to PLC style programming. Responsibilities include data acquisition interfaces, real time control loops, and the use of communication protocols such as Modbus, CAN and TCP IP.</p> <p><strong>Equipment Bring Up and Troubleshooting</strong><br /> Support new equipment bring up, diagnose issues on the floor, and resolve real time faults in collaboration with operators and engineering teams.</p> <p><strong>Requirements Gathering</strong><br /> Work closely with mechanical, electrical, software and test teams to collect stakeholder requirements and translate them into structured, maintainable automation solutions.</p> <p><strong>Documentation and Support</strong><br /> Produce clear documentation, operator instructions and test procedures to support reliable daily use and long term scalability.</p> <p><strong>Safety and Reliability</strong><br /> Ensure all control systems meet applicable safety standards and are engineered to operate reliably in high voltage, high pressure or high speed environments.</p> <h2>Required Experience</h2> <p>The strongest candidates will have:</p> <li>Five or more years developing control systems for production or test equipment</li> <li>Strong proficiency in Python for automation and hardware control</li> <li>Experience with PLCs, industrial PCs or embedded controllers</li> <li>Knowledge of industrial communication protocols including Modbus, CAN, EtherCAT or RS 485</li> <li>Hands on experience integrating and debugging electromechanical systems</li> <li>A solid understanding of safety requirements in industrial environments</li> <li>Strong written and verbal communication skills</li> <li>A degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics or Controls Engineering or equivalent experience</li> <h2>Preferred Backgrounds</h2> <p>We find that engineers from fast paced and high throughput industries align particularly well with our environment. Relevant sectors include:</p> <li>Medical device production equipment</li> <li>High velocity aerospace or propulsion test environments</li> <p>Candidates whose experience is primarily in maintenance only roles or sustaining engineering roles are typically not a strong match, as this position focuses on creating new automation systems rather than simply keeping existing systems operational.</p> <p>There are robotics related initiatives within the organisation, although the primary priority at this time is the development of core control systems for production and test infrastructure.</p> <h2>Compensation and Benefits</h2> <li>Medical, dental and vision coverage</li> <li>Additional onsite perks such as provided lunches</li> <p>Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.</p> <p><img src="https://counter.adcourier.com/QWRhbS5TbGFkZS4zMTkxMi4xMjc4NEBkYXJ3aW4uYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t.gif"></p> <p><span style="color: #ffffff">Adam Slade</span></p>