Controls Software 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.

As a Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for developing machine and operational concepts in

collaboration with R&D staff and engineering peers. You will create a robust system architecture to

support all controls components such as PLCs, safety devices, HMIs, servo drives, and more. For each

project you will work from initial design all the way through commissioning, operational fine-tuning,

and validation to ensure that all systems function reliably and meet their design goals. Additionally,

you will work closely with cross-functional teams throughout the entire life cycle of the equipment

and its operation. You will work with simulation and test engineers to integrate your software into

software testbeds, hardware testbeds, and the tools.

This team member will:

• Work closely with R&D team to outline interfaces and requirements for equipment and software operation for equipment control
• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and balance product specifications, operational control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead time limits
• Write, and debug PLC structured text with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable. PLC code will interact with subsystems and 3rd party equipment
• Implement (ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant) control reliable safety systems for safeguarding industrial equipment
• Design, modify, and approve electrical schematics for industrial and test equipment (compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards)
• Generate aesthetically simple HMI screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
• Create machine interactions with plant-wide SCADA to communicate product acceptability, machine status, and operational variables
• Debug and optimize automated operations to maximize cycle time, improve availability, and yield
• Work with external software contractors to develop the control systems for internal tools (Define requirements, manage priorities, drive testing and implementation plans)

The ideal candidate will have most, if not all, of these requirements:

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field (e.g., EE, mecatronics, software)
• 5+ years of experience as a controls engineer on complex mechanical systems -- for example: design, construction, and operation of controls for industrial, large-scale equipment
• PLC programming experience in IEC 611:31-3 languages
• Familiar with modern tools like github and CI/CD release management
• HMI design, implementation and maintenance utilizing Inductive Automation’s Ignition platform
• Experience with fieldbus systems such as EtherCAT
• Experience developing and tuning control loops
• Experience with enclosure design compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards
• Experience with power distribution and controls
• Experience with cable and harness design using AutoCAD Electrical
• Experience with specification generation and suppler engagement
• High self-motivation and drive to execute quickly with excellent troubleshooting and problem- solving skills
• Design for manufacturability, serviceability, and simplicity over complexity
• Knowledge of interlock systems and methods that conform to NFPA 79
• Familiarly with applying ISO, NFPA, UL and other standards to design solutions

Additional experience and/or qualifications:

• Experience in Beckhoff and Siemens controls platforms
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
• Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), 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.