Control Engineer

Automation Controls Engineer

Location: Alameda, CA

Position Overview:

We're partnering with a well-funded robotics startup that is building the next generation of intelligent warehouse automation. Their platform replaces traditional fixed conveyor systems with dynamic, spatially aware storage and material handling technology — and it's already deployed in real customer environments.

This role is ideal for a controls engineer who wants to do more than maintain legacy systems. You'll have real influence over how the technology is built, and your fingerprints will be on systems running in production environments across the country.

You'll own controls development from initial concept through commissioning, and work directly alongside engineering leadership on some of the most complex material handling challenges in the industry.

Responsibilities:

• Program and debug PLC controllers using Beckhoff TwinCAT and Structured Text (IEC 61131-3)
• Develop organized, maintainable, and reusable code for complex multi-station machinery
• Write and implement communication protocols (OPC-UA) to interface equipment with proprietary warehouse software and production databases
• Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for fast, smooth operation
• Design and implement control safety systems for ASRS equipment, gantries, and conveyance systems in compliance with applicable codes and standards
• Support electrical cabinet builds and field wiring
• Integrate systems with customer warehouse control systems and third-party automation equipment
• Manage suppliers through specification, design, FAT, SAT, and installation phases
• Drive improvements in performance, fault tolerance, and reliability across deployed systems

Qualifications:

• 5 years of experience in controls and automation engineering
• Beckhoff TwinCAT PLC programming experience (required)
• Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) proficiency
• Background in automation-heavy environments: material handling, manufacturing, ASRS, or robotics preferred
• Experience with electrical schematics and CAD (AutoCAD preferred)
• Ability to travel ~20–30% for customer site deployments
• Bonus: HMI design experience (TwinCAT HMI, WinCC, or Ignition)
• Bonus: C development in Linux environments and/or RTOS experience
• Bonus: Startup or high-growth environment experience

Why This Role Stands Out:

• Work on genuinely novel technology — intelligent robotic storage systems, not legacy conveyor retrofits
• High ownership from day one — small team means your contributions are visible and meaningful
• Direct collaboration with engineering leadership and influence over how the controls function is built
• Real production deployments at customer sites across the country — not just R&D
• Well-funded company with strong momentum and a clear path to scale
• Competitive base salary and full benefits