Senior Controls Engineer

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Architect and program PLC logic for drill cycle sequencing, safety interlocks, mud mixing, spindle/feed coordination, and rod handling.


• Implement state machines, PID loops, and interlock matrices in IEC 61131-3 languages (Structured Text, Ladder, FBD).


• Commission control systems on physical rigs: wiring checkout, I/O validation, drive tuning, field debugging.


• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to define sensor/actuator requirements and ensure reliable integration.


• Design alarm handling, recovery routines, and HMI interfaces for drillers.


• Ensure compliance with industrial safety standards (STO, SIL, lockout/tagout).


• Support networking and fieldbus integration (EtherCAT, CANopen, OPC UA).


• Mentor embedded/software teammates on PLC fundamentals and best practices.


• Travel to test sites for commissioning and field support (~20–50%).

WHO YOU ARE

• 5+ years of experience programming and commissioning industrial PLCs (Beckhoff, Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or similar).


• Deep familiarity with IEC 61131-3 languages, especially Structured Text and Ladder.


• Hands-on experience commissioning machinery with hydraulics, servos, and safety interlocks.


• Strong knowledge of fieldbuses (EtherCAT, CAN, Profibus, Modbus) and industrial networking.


• Experience tuning closed-loop systems (PID, torque/force control).


• Comfort working in rugged field environments with heavy equipment.


• Strong debugging instincts and ability to rapidly troubleshoot I/O, sensors, and motion issues.


• “Get it working, get it safe, then get it elegant” mindset.

• Experience with drilling rigs, mining equipment, robotics, or other heavy machinery.


• Knowledge of safety PLCs, SIL/PL standards, and functional safety certification.


• Background in both PLC controls + embedded/robotics software.


• Prior work on automation systems that integrate with edge/cloud telemetry.