Automation & Controls Engineer

About the Role

We are seeking an Automation & Controls Engineer to join our research group and lead the automation and integration of metallurgical processing equipment into a closed-loop, AI-orchestrated experimental platform. The successful candidate will connect arc melting, hot rolling, mechanical testing, and robotic sample transfer systems into a coordinated workflow driven by a Bayesian optimization engine — translating algorithmic experimental directives into machine actions and returning structured results to the decision-making system.

Responsibilities

• Automate vacuum arc melting operations: electrode positioning, chamber sequencing, power profile control, and ingot extraction.
• Automate hot rolling workflows: pass schedule execution, temperature monitoring, thickness feedback, and inter-pass timing.
• Automate mechanical testing routines: specimen loading, test execution, and data capture on universal testing machines, hardness testers, and related equipment.
• Design and commission robotic sample transfer systems to move specimens between processing, characterization, and testing stations without manual intervention.
• Develop Python-based middleware that receives experimental directives from a Bayesian optimization orchestrator and translates them into coordinated PLC commands across multiple instruments.
• Implement real-time data acquisition from sensors (thermocouples, load cells, encoders, imaging systems) and structure outputs into machine-readable formats for the AI/ML pipeline.
• Design safety interlocks, error recovery protocols, and fail-safe routines for unattended operation of high-temperature and high-force equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve issues across the full stack — electrical, mechanical, and software.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience, plus six years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field
• Experience with PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent) and HMI development
• Hands-on experience interfacing with scientific, industrial, or manufacturing equipment
• Experience with robotic systems (UR, FANUC, or similar) and motion control
• Prior experience in a research laboratory, national lab, or metals processing environment
• Exposure to computer vision for automated inspection, sample identification, or quality control
• Experience with high-temperature or high-force equipment (furnaces, rolling mills, mechanical test frames)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proficiency in Python for instrument control, scripting, and automation
• Ability to read and create electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
• Strong troubleshooting skills across hardware and software domains
• Familiarity with ROS/ROS2, LabVIEW, or data acquisition frameworks
• Understanding of AI/ML workflow integration — ability to design APIs and data pipelines that connect automated instruments to optimization and decision-making algorithms
• Familiarity with digital twins or simulation-based testing of automation sequences

Benefits

• Competitive medical insurance benefits through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas and Prescription coverage by Express Scripts
• Options for Vision, Dental, Life, and Long-Term Disability insurance
• A defined benefit retirement plan with the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) with 8.25% employer contribution
• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: Tax Deferred Account 403(b) and a Deferred Compensation Program 457(b)
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses
• Generous paid time off with holidays, vacation and sick leave
• Robust free training access through LinkedIn Learning plus professional development opportunities
• Tuition assistance and Educational release time to further your academic pursuits
• Access to Engineer Your Wellness programs that provide opportunities for employees to engage in health and fitness
• Wellness release time offered to employees to promote work/life balance

Work Location

Main Campus – College Station, TX.

About Materials Science and Engineering

The Department of Materials Science and Engineering's mission is to educate global leaders in materials science and engineering; perform research to address materials challenges of the 21st century; impact society, industry, national security, and the environment and attract the best minds and develop them into the leaders of tomorrow. Despite being one of the youngest departments in the College of Engineering at Texas A&M University, it is one of the largest materials science and engineering departments in the country. Our goal is to be the largest one while providing excellent education to the students.