Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Who we're looking for:

Iron Ox is reinventing itself. We were once a fully vertically integrated company, designing, manufacturing, deploying, and operating innovative technology to create responsibly grown produce. We have refocused our efforts, and are keenly working on scaling the technology we have built to empower growers in both CEA and traditional agriculture to optimize their crop production, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.

We are looking for a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to lead the design and development of our next generation of commercialized systems as we embark on the next phase of Iron Ox’s journey.

This is a full-time, hybrid, exempt role that will be reporting to VP, Engineering.

Preferred candidates will be in the SF Bay Area, willing to work remotely within California, or be near Austin, TX. This role includes 30-40% travel.

The target compensation for this position is $126K to $165K annually. The compensation package will be determined by location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

What will you do here?

• Be instrumental in the architecture and development of new automation and fluid handling systems
• Architect, write, and debug PLC control software. PLC code will interact with subsystems such as conveyors, robots, MES/SCADA, machine vision, and 3rd party equipment
• Lay out new industrial electrical control panels which are NFPA79/NEC/UL508A compliant, and create electrical, pneumatic and fluid schematics
• Specify industrial automation components such as motors, actuators, pneumatics, sensors, and safety systems
• Collaborate with engineers across disciplines (both hardware and software) as well as growing, product, and operational teams
• Work with the team to debug and troubleshoot issues with automated systems
• Work with internal teams to gather system requirements and compile requirements documents
• Generate early stage concepts and mock-ups
• Perform detailed system design and analysis
• Manage manufacturing release and drive outside vendors to deliver high quality products on time

Qualifications:

• Engineering degree in a related field (Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, etc.)
• 6+ Years of experience working on a diverse array of projects
• Experience in a small team/startup environment, accomplishing big things with minimal resources
• A demonstrated ability to drive projects from initial concept through completion with minimal oversight
• Expert knowledge of the Beckhoff automation platform
• Demonstrated excellence in programming PLCs. Must have a well-defined methodology for maintaining code structure and organization. Ability to program state machines for complex processes which involve multi-station parallel processing, pick and place automation, data acquisition, and PID control.
• Proficiency selecting appropriate circuit protectors, wire and cable, sensors, safety hardware, PLC hardware, remote I/O, VFD and servo systems.
• Proven ability to design fault-tolerant systems with error handling and recovery.
• Knowledge of ST programming IEC 61131 required
• Knowledge of Industrial Fieldbus networks (EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, RS-232)
• Demonstrated experience in ethernet communications between machine PLCs and database systems
• Extensive experience with the design and implementation of systems involving motion and motor control, sensors, pumps, valves, linear actuators, pneumatics, etc.
• Experience with motor control (VFDs, contactors) is preferred)
• Experience with various Industrial Robotics (6-Axis, Scara, Delta, etc.)
• Knowledge of ANSI/RIA 15.06 safety standards
• Experience programming OTS HMI hardware (Beijer, Red Lion, Maple System, TwinCAT HMI)
• Ability to clearly illustrate engineering and design concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Nice To Have:

• Experience with fluid handling is preferred
• Exposure to conveyance systems
• SQL or database programming
• Developing REST API clients
• Familiarity with environmental controls
• Direct experience in the design of electromechanical machinery and robotics
• Design experience focusing on human interaction and safety

What We Offer:

Iron Ox is a small startup with a big dream. You’ll be a part of a team founded on transparency, creativity, and impact on our mission to feed people

• Competitive compensation and meaningful equity package
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• 401K

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $126,000.00 - $165,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Experience level:

• 6 years

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• San Carlos, CA 94070: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Carlos, CA 94070