PLC Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a PLC Software Development Engineer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience developing software for U.S. vendor-based PLC platforms using Structured Text (ST) programming language. This role will play a key part in designing, programming, testing, and maintaining industrial control systems that support mission-critical operations.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain PLC programs, with a primary focus on Structured Text (ST).
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define control system requirements and ensure software solutions meet project objectives.
• Conduct thorough testing, debugging, and validation to ensure reliable and safe operation of automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing PLC programs to improve system performance and maintainability through technical analysis and objective data.
• Develop technical documentation including system specifications, test procedures, and user guides.
• Provide on-site and remote support for system commissioning and upgrades.

Requirements

• You have a BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline with 10 years of experience; OR an MS in the same fields with 8 years of experience; OR a PhD with 5 years of experience.
• Hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation PLCs.
• Proficiency in IEC 61131-3 Structured Text programming language.
• Strong understanding of industrial control systems, automation architectures, and communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP and Modbus.
• Experience with configuration management tools (e.g., Git, SVN), collaboration software platforms (e.g., GitLab, Jira), along with associated best practices.
• Worked in a collaborative team environment as a software developer, software engineer, verification engineer, or a similar role.
• Understanding of the Department of War (DoW) Systems Engineering lifecycle and the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) from requirements management to sustainment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to convey difficult engineering or technical challenges to stakeholders.
• Willing to work 100% of your week onsite at either the SEI or customer facility autonomously with minimal supervision.
• Willingness to travel (25%) outside of your office location to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.
• Ability to pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War (DoW) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with C and C++ programming languages, particularly in embedded or industrial software environments.
• Familiarity with additional IEC 61131-3 languages (Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Sequential Function Chart).
• Experience with Windows OS and common tech stacks for development.
• Proficiency in HMI and SCADA development and integration.
• Knowledge of virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V, Docker) for testing environments.
• Experience with static code analysis tools and checking compliance with industry standards.
• Understanding of safety instrumented systems and standards (IEC 61508, ISO 13849, etc.).
• Knowledge of multiple PLC platforms and industrial control systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and in team settings.

About Us

The SEI helps advance software engineering principles and practices and serves as a national resource in software engineering, computer security, and process improvement. The SEI works closely with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to continually improve software-intensive systems. Our core purposes are to help organizations improve software engineering capabilities, advance cybersecurity methods and technologies, and bring the discipline of software engineering to AI systems.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits.
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Access to Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.
• Paid parental and military leave.
• Relocation assistance.
• Access to university resources, including campus fitness facilities, mindfulness programs, and childcare.

Pay

Salary basis.

Schedule

Full time, 100% onsite with 25% travel required.