Principal Controls Engineer Automation Equipment

What We Need: QuantumScape is seeking a highly skilled Principal Controls Engineer with extensive technical expertise and at least 10 years of experience to lead the design, development, and integration of advanced automation systems for manufacturing. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies in a dynamic and collaborative environment, driving innovation and operational excellence in cell manufacturing processes.

What You’ll Do

• :
  Lead the design and development of complex automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, machine vision, and advanced control system
• s.Provide technical leadership to cross-functional teams, guiding engineers through the entire automation project lifecycle from concept through commissionin
• g.Develop and review electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control enclosure layouts, and interlock schematics using advanced CAD softwar
• e.Program and debug complex control systems, ensuring reliability, scalability, and performance optimizatio
• n.Conduct thorough risk assessments, ensuring compliance with industry standards such as SEMI, NFPA 79, UL, and local safety regulation
• s.Validate and test safety circuits, I/O systems, and industrial communication interfaces (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, OPCUA) to ensure compliance with stringent safety and performance criteri
• a.Develop detailed equipment specifications and lead quality assurance efforts throughout the design and implementation phase
• s.Collaborate with mechanical design engineers, assembly teams, and external engineering teams to ensure cross-disciplinary alignment and optimal system performanc
• e.Lead the installation, commissioning, and continuous improvement of automation systems in manufacturing environments, ensuring high availability and minimal downtim
• e.Communicate effectively with suppliers and external vendors to source automation equipment, components, and systems, ensuring that specifications, timelines, and quality standards are me
• t.Manage supplier relationships, driving technical discussions and resolving any issues that may arise during procurement, testing, and integration stage
• s.Support the evaluation of new technologies and suppliers to enhance automation capabilities and maintain competitiveness in the manufacturing environmen

t.Skills You’ll Nee

• d:
  A BS or higher degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical fie
• ld.At least 10 years of hands-on experience in designing, developing, and integrating automation systems for manufacturing, including R&D, prototyping, and production environmen
• ts.Advanced proficiency in PLC programming, with deep expertise in Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000), Siemens (TIA Portal), and other automation platfor
• ms.Extensive experience with 6-axis robotics (FANUC preferred, KUKA secondary) and their integration into automation syste
• ms.In-depth knowledge of motion control systems, industrial communication protocols, and safety standards, with proven experience in applying these to manufacturing environmen
• ts.Expertise in SCADA systems (Ignition, etc.), including configuration, monitoring, and integration with production syste
• ms.Strong experience with CAD software (Autodesk) for electrical and mechanical design, with the ability to create detailed schematics, BOMs, and interlock syste
• ms.Familiarity with machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence) and their application in advanced automati
• on.Proven track record in leading complex projects, mentoring junior engineers, and driving continuous improvement in automation syste
• ms.Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and system optimization skills with a collaborative and leadership-oriented minds
• et.Excellent communication skills for coordinating with internal teams, suppliers, and external vendors to ensure timely delivery of high-quality components and syste

ms.
Onsite:This position is required to work onsite 5 days per week to meet the minimum essential duties and requirements of this position. As an on-site R&D and manufacturing operations organization, in-person face to face interaction is essential to building authentic relationships, trust, teamwork, and collaborat