Software Controls Engineer

Software Controls Engineer

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Software/Controls Engineer to support the Autonomy Test Cube (ATC)—a large-scale, complex test system used in advanced robotics development. This role involves maintaining and enhancing the ATC’s software interfaces, implementing new features, and debugging across both low-level motor control and high-level orchestration layers. The ideal candidate is a technical leader with a strong background in Python, ROS/ROS2, and PLC systems, who thrives in a hands-on, fast-paced lab environment. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams and contribute to the evolution of a sophisticated robotics testing platform.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and expand software interfaces for the ATC system.

• Implement and debug new features across software and hardware layers.

• Lead the design and architecture of scalable, reliable control systems.

• Integrate low-level motor controls with high-level orchestration software.

• Collaborate with hardware, mechanical, and test engineering teams.

• Ensure adherence to coding standards and best practices.

• Author and maintain technical documentation.

• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior team members.

• Demonstrate ownership and accountability throughout the development lifecycle.

Essential Skills

• Proficient in Python, ROS, and ROS2.

• Familiarity with PLC programming and ladder logic.

• Experience designing and scaling complex systems.

• Strong background in integrating physical systems with software controls.

• Understanding of software development best practices and coding standards.

• Excellent communication and documentation skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and drive results.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with web GUI development and web-based control interfaces.

• Familiarity with networking protocols and distributed systems.

• Hands-on experience with Keyence PLCs.

• Experience programming gantry systems with multiple degrees of freedom.

• Full software development lifecycle experience, including source control (e.g., Git), CI/CD pipelines, testing, and deployment.

Work Environment

This role is based in a hands-on, fast-paced lab environment where collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential. The work involves using cutting-edge technologies in robotics development and requires adherence to coding standards and best practices. Dress code is casual, suitable for a lab setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of North Reading, MA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $135000.00 - $145000.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in North Reading,MA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 21, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.