Automation Controls Engineer

Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS) has the fastest, lowest cost path to commercial fusion energy.

CFS collaborates with MIT to leverage decades of research combined with groundbreaking new high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnet technology. HTS magnets will enable compact fusion power plants that can be constructed faster and at lower cost. Our mission is to deploy these power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. To that end, CFS has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by the world’s leading investors, CFS is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change. To implement this plan, we are looking to add dedicated people to the team who treat people well, improve our work by adding multifaceted perspectives and new ways of solving problems, have achieved outstanding results through a range of pursuits, and have skills and experience related to this role.

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Automation Controls Engineer with a strong background in PLC programming and industrial automation. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing control systems to enhance our manufacturing processes. This role requires a deep understanding of PLCs, HMI, SCADA systems, and other automation technologies.

• Develop machine and process concepts in collaboration with Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering peers
• Create a robust system architecture to support all controls components, including robotic manipulators, PLCs, safety devices, HMIs, and servo drives
• Work from initial design through commissioning, process fine-tuning, and validation to ensure all systems function reliably and meet their design goals
• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development, balancing product specifications, process control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead time limits
• Specify, select, and program robotics systems for various applications, including material handling, welding, material removal, part assembly, part inspection, and subtractive manufacturing
• Write and debug PLC structured text, emphasizing organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable code
• Implement control-reliable safety systems for safeguarding robots, gantries, conveyors, and other high-volume manufacturing equipment
• Design, modify, and approve electrical schematics for manufacturing and test equipment, ensuring compliance with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards
• Generate aesthetically simple HMI screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
• Introduce automated processes into production, training Maintenance and Production Teams to support post-deployment
• Create machine interactions with plant-wide SCADA to communicate product acceptability, machine status, and process variables

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience as a controls engineer on complex electro-mechanical systems
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Allen Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi)
• Experience with HMI and SCADA systems (e.g., Wonderware, Ignition)
• Strong understanding of industrial networks and communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus)
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with safety standards and regulations (e.g., OSHA, NEC)
• Experience with control system architecture
• Experience with rotating machinery, cable winding, soldering, and/or pipe bending
• Ability to program and troubleshoot automation controllers in all IEC 61131-3 designated languages
• Experience with control-reliable safety systems for high-volume manufacturing equipment (compliant with ANSI/OSHA standards)
• High self-motivation and drive to execute quickly with excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• A value for design for manufacturability, serviceability, and simplicity over complexity

• Experience in Beckhoff and Siemens controls platforms
• Experience in robot integration and programming
• Experience in Ignition SCADA systems
• Machine Vision experience
• Greenfield or brownfield startup commissioning experience
• Expertise with CAD drafting (AutoCAD Electrical is a plus)
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods
• Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards, including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, and cryogenics
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
• Certification in automation (e.g., Certified Automation Professional, Siemens S7 Certification)
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
• Dedication to safety to mitigate hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, and cryogenics
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
• #LI-Onsite

CFS team members thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and have demonstrated exceptional results through a range of different pursuits. We all tightly align with our company values of integrity, execution, impact and self-critique. As we grow, we are looking to add talented people who are mission driven and bring diverse perspectives and new ways of solving problems.

At CFS, we deeply value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.