Controls/PLC Engineer II

Controls/PLC Engineer II

Specter Aerospace is seeking a PLC and Controls Engineer to manage and own a controls system for a state-of-the-art scramjet test facility.  A successful candidate will have prior experience with programable logic controllers, data acquisition, facility management, and industrial systems. They will have the opportunity to work on next-generation propulsion and flight systems in a high-impact role.

About Specter Aerospace:
Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for defense and commercial applications. Specter is headquartered in Peabody, MA, just north of Boston, where it leverages its advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems. Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations, commercial customers, and private funding, Specter is a growing aerospace and defense startup. Close relationships with MIT, Notre Dame, AFRL, NRL, ANL, and other research organizations provide access to cutting-edge developments, facilities, and personnel. Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.

Role & Responsibilities

•  Coordinate with test operators to develop new features for existing test cells controls to improve usability, safety and reliability
• Aid in the controls design for new test cells to aid with the emerging technologies
• Work with propulsion and mechanical engineers to choose sensors and integrate them into the test facility.
• Calibrate and maintain sensors, actuators, and controls for hypersonic engine test facilities
• Add control features and sensors and troubleshoot sensors, sequences, and controls in collaboration with test engineers
• Manage database systems for the PLC to data server pipelines
• Develop and update HMIs
• Up to 10% travel in support of remote test activities
• Other duties as assigned by the company

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or other related discipline.
• 2+ years of relevant full-time experience
• Experience with PLCs such as Beckhoff, B&R or similar
• Experience with time-based databases (Influx/SCADA) and Scheme-based databases (SQL)
• Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)
• Comfort with quick-turn change and feature requests

Desired skills

• Understanding of python and object-oriented programming is recommended
• Experience with closed loop control of motors, valves, etc, including characterization of response and optimization of control schemes
• Previous fluids or propulsion experience
• Previous experience with safety-critical control systems
• Familiarity with standard aerospace, automotive, or research environment sensor types, communication standards, wiring standards, and calibration processes