SENIOR CONTROLS ENGINEER, $110K-$185K
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 are designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. Since 2018 we have raised significant capital and are the leading private fusion company in the world.
About the role
As a Senior Controls Engineer you will take independent ownership of execution approaches for complex machine and process concepts, generate detailed work plans, define milestones, and mentor junior staff. You will provide technical leadership on long-term assignments and influence cross-functional solutions.
Responsibilities
- Lead initial equipment conceptual development balancing product specifications, process control, layout complexity, and lead time
- Provide technical leadership on medium to long-term problems and offer expertise beyond the immediate group
- Create and approve system architectures and electrical schematics compliant with NFPA79, NEC, and UL508A standards
- Write and debug PLC structured text with emphasis on organized, documented, maintainable, reusable code
- Contribute to department policies, tool development, and automated process characterization using data-driven methods (Cpk, Gage R&R)
- Challenge and influence cross-functional peers using data and rationale to align on technical direction
- Onboard peers and mentor junior colleagues to support skill development
- Identify and mitigate risks and escalate larger risks with proposed solutions
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in an engineering field required
- 7+ years experience as a controls engineer on complex electro-mechanical systems
- Mastery of programming and troubleshooting automation controllers in IEC 61131-3 languages
- Experience with control reliable safety systems and enclosure design standards
- Proven judgment in ambiguous situations with large project impact
- Familiarity with rotating machinery, cable winding, soldering, or pipe bending
- Expertise in enclosure design compliant with NFPA79, NEC, UL508A
- Experience collaborating with job shops and external vendors
- Strong troubleshooting, problem solving, and drive for design for manufacturability and serviceability
Skills
- Experience with Beckhoff or Siemens controls platforms
- Experience with Ignition SCADA systems
- Machine vision experience
- Greenfield or brownfield startup commissioning experience
- AutoCAD Electrical proficiency
Physical Demands
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
- Ability to type, stand, stoop, and sit for extended periods
- Dedication to safety working around hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, and cryogenics
- Willingness to occasionally travel or work required nights, weekends, or be on-call
Pay
$110,000-$185,000/year + equity + benefits (actual salary depends on level, location, qualifications, and experience)
Benefits
- Competitive compensation with equity
- 13 company-wide holidays, flexible vacation days, 10 sick days
- Generous parental leave
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer matching
- Professional growth opportunities and team-building activities