Controls Engineer

Job Description

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy.

Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future.

We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world.

Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team.

If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you.

Join the power movement as a Controls Engineer

As a Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for developing machine and process concepts in collaboration with Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering peers. You will create a robust system architecture to support all controls components such as robotic manipulators, PLCs, safety devices, HMIs, servo drives, and more. For each project you will work from initial design all the way through commissioning, process fine-tuning, and validation to ensure that all systems function reliably and meet their design goals. Additionally, you will work closely with cross-functional teams throughout the entire life cycle of the product and processes.

This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.

What you'll do

• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and balance product specifications, process control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead time limits
• Specify, select, and program robotics systems for material handling, laser welding, tig welding, mig welding, material removal, part assembly, part inspection, and subtractive manufacturing
• Write, and debug PLC structured text with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable. PLC code will interact with subsystems such as conveyors, robots, machine vision, and 3rd party equipment
• Implement (ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant) control reliable safety systems for safeguarding robots, gantries, conveyors, and other high volume manufacturing equipment
• Design, modify, and approve electrical schematics for manufacturing and test equipment. (compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards)
• Generate aesthetically simple HMI screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
• Introduce automated processes into production, and train Maintenance and Production Teams to support after deployment into production
• Create machine interactions with plantwide SCADA to communicate product acceptability, machine status, and process variables
• Debug and optimize automated processes to maximize cycle time, improve availability, and yield
• Characterize and validate automated processes using a data-driven approach such as simulation, Capacity and Capability statistical test (Gage Repeatability and Reproducibility test, Cpk, etc)
• Create data management and tracking communications network architecture and interface with cross-functional teams for product, processes, and quality traceability control implementation

What we're looking for

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering field is required
• 3-5 years' experience as controls engineer on complex electro-mechanical systems
• Knowledge of assembly-level thermal/mechanical design considerations is a plus
• Experience with control system architecture
• Experience with rotating machinery, cable winding, soldering, and/or pipe bending
• Experience with enclosure design compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards
• Experience working with job shops and external vendors
• Ability to program and troubleshoot automation controllers in all IEC 61131-3 designated languages strongly desired
• Experience with control reliable safety systems for high volume manufacturing equipment (Compliant with ANSI/OSHA standards)
• High self-motivation and drive to execute quickly with excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• A value for design for manufacturability, serviceability, and simplicity over complexity

Bonus points for

• Experience in Beckhoff and Siemens controls platforms
• Experience in robot integration and programming
• Experience in Ignition SCADA systems
• Machine Vision experience is a plus
• Greenfield or brownfield startup commissioning experience
• Expertise with CAD drafting. AutoCAD Electrical is a plus

Must-have requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
• Perform activities such as typing, standing, stooping, and sitting, for extended periods of time
• Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, and cryogenics
• Willingness to occasionally travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call

$90,000 - $145,000 a year

Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Benefits include:

• Competitive compensation with equity
• 12.5 Company-wide Holidays
• Flexible vacation days
• 10 sick days
• Generous parental leave policy
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with employer matching
• Professional growth opportunities
• Team-building activities

At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.

We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.