Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

We are looking for a Controls Engineer to lead the electrical architecture and hardware integration for a large-scale robotic construction system delivering proprietary printing technology to Serial Production. In this role, you will apply advanced, wide-ranging electrical engineering expertise to develop and resolve complex hardware and integration challenges across power distribution, high-precision motion control, and material delivery systems. You will direct the application of established engineering principles, guide the development of new design standards, and serve as a technical mentor to junior engineers and technicians. You will frequently advise cross-functional teams on complex matters and may be accountable, through the team, for delivery of tactical engineering targets.

Responsibilities

• Large-Scale System Integration: Lead the electrical hardware design for multi-story robotic systems, integrating long-reach boom arms, gantry-style rails, or mobile tread systems with the central BuildOS control platform.
• Material Delivery & Process Control: Own the electrical integration of automated mixing, pumping, and extrusion hardware. Optimize sensor feedback loops for real-time monitoring of material flow, pressure, and environmental variables.
• Off-Planet & Harsh Environment Design: Drive R&D for robotic systems destined for extreme environments, including lunar or Martian applications, selecting radiation-hardened or temperature-resilient components.
• Safety & Compliance in Construction: Implement safety-rated systems (ISO 10218, ISO 13849) for large, open-workspace robots. Ensure all field hardware meets NEC (NFPA 70) standards for outdoor and temporary construction sites.
• Mobile Mechatronics: Specify and integrate high-torque servo and stepper motors for the precise movement of large robotic structures, ensuring millimeter-level accuracy over 27-foot spans.
• Electrical Architecture & Design: Design and advance electrical systems from prototype to commercialization, including panel design and fabrication in compliance with UL508A, NFPA 79, UL2011, NFPA 70 (NEC), and related standards. Produce professional CAD schematics and P&IDs in SolidWorks Electrical, performing critical calculations for breaker sizing, cable selection (particularly long-run, high-flex mobile applications), and enclosure thermal management.
• Conceptual PLC & Motion Control: Architect hardware for industrial controllers (PLC/PAC). While programming is not required, deeply understand control logic to troubleshoot Beckhoff/EtherCAT or Rockwell systems and coordinate handshaking with robotic arm controllers.
• Mentorship & Technical Leadership: Lead and review the work of junior engineers and technicians. Develop internal training for site-based electrical troubleshooting and preventative maintenance of printer fleets. Advise cross-functional partners on complex electrical matters.
• Advanced Troubleshooting: Perform root-cause analysis on field-deployed robots, diagnosing complex communication and power quality issues in rugged environments.
• DFM & Manufacturing Support: Serve as the specifying engineer for Design for Manufacturing (DFM) initiatives, supporting lean and efficient manufacturing practices in a fast-paced AGILE development environment.
• Strategic Alignment: Align technical contributions with company-wide Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), driving progress toward strategic goals.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline, with 8+ years of related experience; or a Master's with 6+ years; or a Ph.D. with 3+ years.
• Proven track record of leading engineering development efforts and delivering complex designs on time.
• Advanced ability to apply first-principles thinking to resolve complex engineering models and challenges in creative and effective ways.
• Deep experience designing industrial equipment with a strong understanding of field requirements and real-time PLC systems.
• Expert-level skill in designing cable harnesses and electrical panels for industrial machinery, including long-run, high-flex mobile applications.
• Demonstrated ability to take projects from early-stage prototyping through final product delivery and serial production.
• Advanced understanding of UL508A standards and industrial electrical design practices.
• Proficient in SolidWorks Electrical Schematics and SolidWorks Electrical 3D; experience with Product Data Management (PDM) tools required.
• Skilled in reading and creating schematics in accordance with ANSI and ISO standards.
• Demonstrated understanding of the interrelationships between electrical, mechanical, controls, and software disciplines.
• Effective communicator who can adapt style and use persuasion to deliver messages that relate to broader business outcomes.
• Knowledge of AGILE project management methodologies.
• Service-oriented mindset when operating in a support capacity.
• Ability to prioritize effectively and maintain composure in a fast-paced, start-up environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in a start-up environment and/or a demonstrated ability to innovate, optimize processes, and work resourcefully in dynamic settings.
• Experience designing electrical systems for robotics, mechatronics, or large-scale automation platforms.
• Strong troubleshooting skills across electrical, controls, and mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with machine safety standards, including ISO 10218 and ISO 13849.
• Working knowledge of Lean Six Sigma methodologies, including Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles.
• Hands-on experience with industrial safety systems.
• Ability to clearly convey complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences and senior stakeholders.
• A continuous learner with a strong drive for personal and professional growth

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Austin, TX.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $55.00 - $75.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. 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 Austin, TX.

Application Deadline: This position is anticipated to close on Sep 10, 2026.