Automation Controls Engineer (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Automation Controls Engineer (Aerospace Manufacturing): Own controls architecture for custom robotic cells, CNC, and tooling from concept to production run-off with an accent on PLC programming, motion tuning, and industrial networks. Focus on integrating robotics, sensors, safety systems, HMIs, and commissioning on the factory floor while driving root-cause analysis and mentoring teams.

Location: Los Angeles, CA. ITAR Requirements: U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual, or eligible for U.S. Department of State authorizations.

Salary: $130,000-$220,000 (may vary based on experience, location, etc.).

Company

Building autonomous factories for aerospace and defense companies to manufacture rockets, satellites, jets, and ships up to 10x faster and 2x cheaper using software, robotics, and full-stack manufacturing.

What you will do

• Own controls design for robotic, CNC, and tooling cells from concept through commissioning and run-off.
• Write and deploy PLC applications on Siemens or similar hardware with reusable libraries.
• Tune multi-axis motion (servos, VFDs, steppers) and integrate sensors and safety devices.
• Specify and design electrical panels and industrial networks (EtherCAT, PROFINET, OPC UA).
• Build operator HMIs, lead risk assessments, and commission on the floor.
• Drive root-cause analysis, mentor engineers, and codify standards into shared libraries.

Requirements

• Bachelor's in STEM (electro-mechanical preferred) or equivalent.
• 3-6 years delivering automated cells end-to-end in industrial manufacturing.
• PLCs & motion: Beckhoff/Siemens experience, servo/VFD tuning.
• Robotics: Programming ABB, Fanuc, Kuka; cell simulation.
• Electrical & networks: Panel design (NFPA 79, UL 508A); EtherCAT, PROFINET, OPC UA.
• Sensors & safety: Integration, risk assessment, ISO 13849.
• Commissioning skills: Wrenching, schematics, troubleshooting.
• Excellent communication; collaboration with manufacturing, tooling, software teams.

Nice to have

• High-level programming (C#, Python).
• Machine vision (Cognex, Keyence, etc.).
• HMI in Ignition or WinCC.
• MES/API integration (REST, MQTT, OPC UA).

Culture & Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance.
• 401k.
• Relocation support for certain situations.
• Flexible vacation policy.