Senior Controls Engineer

Senior Controls & Robotics EngineerAalo Atomics is pioneering a new era in clean energy with factory-fabricated microreactors designed to deliver affordable, scalable, and reliable nuclear power. Our mission is to make nuclear energy globally accessible, starting with the Aalo-1, a 10 MWe reactor leveraging cutting-edge safety, modularity, and efficiency. Based in Austin, TX, we're rapidly growing as we work to deploy the world's first fleet of advanced microreactors. Join us and help revolutionize energy for a sustainable future.Responsibilities:Design and architect PLC/HMI-based control systems for automated and semi-automated manufacturing lines (welding, machining, assembly, material handling, inspection)Develop and program PLC logic (Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff, or similar), HMI screens, and SCADA systemsSpecify and select instrumentation, sensors, actuators, drives, motion control systems, safety devices, and industrial networking hardwareIntegrate robotic systems (articulated arms, cobots, gantries) into manufacturing cells with appropriate safety protocols.Commission and validate production equipment on the factory floor — from FAT/SAT through full production handoffDevelop system functional specifications, control narratives, I/O lists, network architecture drawings, and panel design packagesImplement industrial communication networks (EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT, PROFINET, OPC-UA, MQTT, Modbus)Design safety systems in compliance with relevant machine safety standards (NFPA 79, ISO 13849, IEC 62443)Collaborate with MES/IT teams on data acquisition, recipe management, and production traceability systemsDrive schedule and throughput on automation equipment — identify risks early, solve problems fast, and keep commissioning milestones on trackDevelop and document standards in the factory for robot programming, PLC/Robot communications, safety systems, wiring and pneumatics.Troubleshoot complex electromechanical systems and drive root cause analysis for production issuesMentor junior controls engineers and technicians; establish controls standards and templates for factory-wide deployment and maintenanceBasic Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline7+ years of hands-on experience in industrial controls engineering, automation, or robotics integrationExpert-level PLC programming (Structured Text, Ladder Logic, Function Block) and/or IPCs on at least one major platform (Rockwell, Siemens, or Beckhoff)Experience with HMI/SCADA development (FactoryTalk, Ignition, TIA Portal, or similar)Hands-on experience commissioning automated production equipment through FAT/SAT and production rampSolid understanding of servo/motion control and industrial robotics integrationExperience executing safety risk assessments for automated processes and build-in safeguards that minimize risksExperience successfully working cross functionally to deliver automation systems from concept through production handoffPreferred Experience:Experience in nuclear, aerospace, defense, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments (eg. NQA-1, AS9100, ISO13485, IS9001)Experience integrating controls with MES/ERP platformsExperience with IPCs for use in automation and controlBackground in automated welding systems (orbital TIG, electron beam, laser)Experience in a greenfield or major capital-project factory buildoutKnowledge of IEC 61131-3 programming best practices and ISA-88 batch standardsTÜV Functional Safety Engineer (FSEng) or CFSE certificationExperience building controls standards and templates for multi-line factory deploymentsExperience developing tech packages for industrial robots (Kuka, Fanuc, ABB)Experience integrating robotics with CNC equipmentExperience with offline robot programming and virtual commissioning simulationsBackground in routine robot data acquisition and analysisPrior experience in a vertically integrated hardware company where engineers build what they designExperience writing code (Python, C++, Rust) and ability to utilize AI effectivelyStrong communication skills to convey technical reasoning and mission-critical messaging clearlyPhysical Requirements and Work Environment:Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in confined spaces and at heights.Frequent bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in various positionsUse of welding PPE (hood, FR clothing, gloves) and other PPE as required.Factory/shop floor environment with exposure to noise, fumes, heat, UV/arc flash, and moving equipment.Why Join Aalo?Lead high-impact programs shaping the future of nuclear energy.Work alongside top experts in advanced reactors and clean energy.Be part of a fast-moving, execution-driven startup environment.Interested? Apply now to help accelerate the future of energy.What It Takes to Succeed at AaloWe're building technology that will help reshape the future of energy. The pace is fast, the problems are difficult, and the expectations are high. Successful team members consistently demonstrate:Extreme Ownership — You take responsibility for outcomes, not just tasks. You proactively identify problems, drive solutions, and follow through.A Passion for Solving Hard Problems — You are energized by challenges that others avoid and enjoy finding practical solutions to complex technical issues.A Sense of Urgency — You move quickly, make thoughtful decisions, and maintain momentum while balancing quality and execution.What We OfferCompetitive salary starting at $135,000Health, Dental, and Vision InsurancePaid Time OffCorporate Gym MembershipCandidates only. No recruiters or agencies, please.Additional Information:Aalo Atomics provides a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, intellectually challenging careers, and competitive compensation. Aalo Atomics is an equal opportunity employer and considers all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or U.S. Persons in compliance with 10 CFR Part 810 and may not hold non-compliant foreign citizenships.Direct applicants only. No recruiters or staffing agencies, please.