Senior Controls Engineer, Ground Systems (Aerospace)

Location: Alameda, California, United States; full on-site position

Salary: $140,000–$180,000 per year

Company

hirify.global develops dedicated orbital launch services, electric propulsion systems, and flexible ground infrastructure for rocket testing and launch operations.

What you will do

• Architect, implement, and maintain control systems for factory and test infrastructure, including motor controllers, sensors, actuators, and safety interlocks.
• Develop Python-based control software for data acquisition, real-time control loops, and hardware communication through Modbus, CAN, and TCP/IP.
• Perform system bring-up, debugging, and refinement on the factory floor, resolving real-time issues on physical hardware.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and test engineers to develop cross-disciplinary solutions.
• Create system documentation, operator manuals, and test procedures.
• Ensure control systems meet industrial safety standards and operate reliably in factory and test environments.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience developing and deploying control systems in test or production environments.
• Strong Python skills for automation and control applications.
• Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, CAN, EtherCAT, and RS-485.
• Experience with PLCs, industrial PCs, or embedded control systems, including software and hardware integration.
• Ability to work around high-voltage, high-pressure, or high-speed hardware and to debug physical systems.
• ITAR and EAR compliance is required; applicants must be documented U.S. Persons or able to obtain the applicable trade license. Work on government contracts may also require appropriate authorization or clearance.

Nice to have

• Background in aerospace, automotive, or advanced manufacturing.
• Experience with NI hardware and software, SCADA systems, or real-time data-logging architectures.
• Knowledge of safety standards such as OSHA, NFPA 79, or ISO 13849.
• Familiarity with Git and Linux-based workflows.

Culture & Benefits

• Hands-on work with real hardware in a fast-paced factory and test environment.
• Health, vision, and dental benefits.
• 401(k) plan and equity as part of the compensation package.
• Lunch, snacks, and drinks provided on site.
• Reasonable accommodations are available during the application and employment process.