Principal Controls Software Engineer

As a Principal Controls Software Engineer at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, you will be responsible for developing control strategies and system architecture for complex mechanical systems. This includes collaborating closely with R&D teams to outline operational requirements, debugging PLC structured text, and implementing safety systems that comply with industry standards. Additionally, you will oversee the design of electrical schematics, create user-friendly HMI screens, and optimize automated operations for maximum efficiency. Each project will see you through the lifecycle, from initial design to commissioning and validation.

To apply for the Principal Controls Software Engineer position at Commonwealth Fusion Systems, candidates should hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline, such as electrical engineering or mechatronics. Additionally, applicants should have at least 5 years of experience in controls engineering for complex mechanical systems and proficiency in PLC programming. Familiarity with modern tools like GitHub, HMI design, and safety system design compliance with standards such as NFPA79 is also essential.

The salary range for the Principal Controls Software Engineer position at Commonwealth Fusion Systems is between $150,000 and $250,000 annually, depending on various factors such as location, qualifications, and experience. Alongside a competitive salary, employees can also expect equity options and a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, flexible vacation days, and a 401(k) with employer matching.

Principal Controls Software Engineers at Commonwealth Fusion Systems will experience a dynamic and fast-paced work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. The company is committed to mission-driven work, valuing integrity, execution, and diverse perspectives. The team is made up of thinkers and builders who are motivated by the shared goal of advancing fusion energy technology, ensuring each employee can contribute to meaningful and impactful projects.

Yes, Commonwealth Fusion Systems prioritizes professional growth for all its employees, including Principal Controls Software Engineers. The company fosters an environment where continuous learning is encouraged, providing plenty of opportunities for skill development, participation in training programs, and involvement in pioneering projects that push the boundaries of fusion energy technology.

When answering this question, highlight your specific experiences with PLC programming, including the languages you are familiar with, such as IEC 61131-3. Provide examples of projects where you’ve developed, debugged, and maintained PLC code, emphasizing your ability to create organized and maintainable code that interacts effectively with subsystems.

Discuss your methodology for designing control systems, focusing on your process from conceptual development through the operational phase. Highlight your ability to balance product specifications, operational requirements, and regulatory compliance in your designs, and provide examples of past projects that demonstrate these skills.

Emphasize your understanding of safety standards such as ANSI/RIA15.06 and NFPA79, and describe specific protocols you follow to ensure compliance. Discuss any experiences you have with implementing safety systems in past projects and how you prioritize safety through design.

Discuss the modern tools you’ve worked with, such as GitHub for version control, and your experience with HMI design platforms like Inductive Automation’s Ignition. Provide examples of how you've used these tools to improve project outcomes.

Share your systematic approach to troubleshooting, including methods you use to identify and resolve issues quickly. Provide examples from past experiences where your problem-solving skills led to successful project outcomes.

Highlight your experiences working with cross-functional teams, detailing how you’ve effectively communicated complex concepts to team members from different disciplines. Be sure to emphasize any specific projects where this collaboration was vital to success.

Discuss your hands-on experience integrating SCADA systems with various equipment and your understanding of how SCADA communicates operational variables and machine statuses. Provide examples of projects where you successfully implemented SCADA solutions.

Provide specific examples of challenges you've encountered, whether they were technical issues or project-related constraints, and detail the steps you took to overcome them, emphasizing your analytical and critical thinking skills.

Explain your strategies for staying current with industry trends, such as attending workshops, webinars, or engaging with professional networks. Mention how this ongoing education has benefited your work and contributed to successful project outcomes.

When answering this question, connect your personal mission and values with those of Commonwealth Fusion Systems. Talk about your passion for sustainable energy solutions and how your skills and experiences align with the company's goals. Showcase your enthusiasm for contributing to a groundbreaking industry.