Electrical Controls Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a versatile and motivated Electrical Controls Engineer to join our team developing next-generation metal additive manufacturing systems, including Liquid Metal and Laser Wire DED (Directed Energy Deposition) 3D printers. This role combines PLC/IPC programming, electrical hardware design, and advanced system integration, with significant hands-on involvement in the lab and on prototype machines.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and troubleshoot control systems for advanced metal additive manufacturing equipment
• Program and maintain PLCs, IPCs, HMIs, and real-time control systems for motion, thermal, and process control
• Develop electrical architectures, including panel design, wiring schematics, and system layouts for high-power and precision equipment
• Integrate subsystems including laser sources, wire feeders, motion platforms, sensors, vision systems, and robotic components
• Support machine build, integration, commissioning, and testing in both lab and production environments
• Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, and integration issues across complex, multi-domain systems
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, materials, and software engineers to optimize print performance and system reliability
• Contribute to process development, including control of melt pools, deposition rates, and thermal management
• Maintain thorough documentation for system designs, revisions, and test procedures

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
• Experience with PLC and/or IPC-based control systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Siemens, or similar platforms)
• Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, including motors, drives, sensors, and control panels
• Experience with multi-axis motion control systems and real-time automation
• Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics and technical documentation
• Hands-on experience with system integration, debugging, and field troubleshooting
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with additive manufacturing, CNC systems, or advanced manufacturing technologies
• Familiarity with laser systems, high-power electrical systems, or thermal process control
• Experience with robotics integration and kinematics
• Knowledge of machine safety systems and applicable standards
• Familiarity with electrical and safety standards (e.g., UL, NFPA, IEC) and experience supporting TÜV or similar machine safety audits and certifications
• Experience with PCB design, embedded systems, or Python scripting
• Exposure to machine vision or in-situ monitoring systems

Soft Skills & Attributes

• Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to collaborate across engineering disciplines
• Positive, proactive attitude with strong ownership of projects and outcomes
• Comfortable wearing multiple hats in an R&D-focused, fast-moving environment
• Strong problem-solving skills with attention to detail and system-level thinking
• Effective communicator able to bridge hardware, software, and process discussions
• Hands-on approach with enthusiasm for building, testing, and iterating on real hardware

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge metal additive manufacturing technology
• A collaborative, low-ego team environment focused on innovation and execution
• Exposure to multidisciplinary challenges spanning controls, materials, and process development
• A culture that values curiosity, initiative, and continuous improvement

How to Apply

Please submit your resume along with a brief summary of your experience with PLC/IPC programming, motion control, and industrial electrical systems, as well as any relevant work in advanced manufacturing or automation.