Controls Engineer

Senior Controls Engineer

Location: United States, Onsite

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.

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.

About The Role

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.

Key Responsibilities

Control System Design
Design, implement and maintain control systems for both factory and test environments. This includes sensors, actuators, motor controllers, motion hardware and integrated safety systems.

Software Development
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.

Equipment Bring Up and Troubleshooting
Support new equipment bring up, diagnose issues on the floor, and resolve real time faults in collaboration with operators and engineering teams.

Requirements Gathering
Work closely with mechanical, electrical, software and test teams to collect stakeholder requirements and translate them into structured, maintainable automation solutions.

Documentation and Support
Produce clear documentation, operator instructions and test procedures to support reliable daily use and long term scalability.

Safety and Reliability
Ensure all control systems meet applicable safety standards and are engineered to operate reliably in high voltage, high pressure or high speed environments.

Required Experience

The strongest candidates will have:

• Five or more years developing control systems for production or test equipment
• Strong proficiency in Python for automation and hardware control
• Experience with PLCs, industrial PCs or embedded controllers
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols including Modbus, CAN, EtherCAT or RS 485
• Hands on experience integrating and debugging electromechanical systems
• A solid understanding of safety requirements in industrial environments
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• A degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics or Controls Engineering or equivalent experience

Preferred Backgrounds

We find that engineers from fast paced and high throughput industries align particularly well with our environment. Relevant sectors include:

• Semiconductor automation
• Automotive manufacturing
• Medical device production equipment
• High velocity aerospace or propulsion test environments

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.

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.

Compensation and Benefits

• Equity component
• Medical, dental and vision coverage
• Additional onsite perks such as provided lunches

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade