Control Systems Engineer - Manufacturing & Automation

Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supported by leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change.

Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion!

As a Control Systems Engineer - Manufacturing & Automation, you will apply your expertise in industrial automation and PLC-based control systems to design, stand up, and support advanced manufacturing and assembly lines. You will work hands-on with PLCs, robotics, safety systems, fieldbus networks, and industrial IO to enable reliable, scalable, and repeatable production systems. We are looking for engineers who enjoy building systems from concept through commissioning and thrive in fast-paced manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

* Design, develop, and commission PLC‑based control systems across process, manufacturing cells, motion control, and building automation, owning the work from initial concept through production deployment and operational handoff.

* Support the stand-up of new manufacturing lines, including greenfield and brownfield deployments, equipment integration, and factory acceptance testing

* Program and debug PLC software using IEC 61131-3 languages (Structured Text preferred), with a focus on readable, modular, and maintainable code with object oriented programming

* Integrate and commission industrial robotics systems for part handling, assembly, inspection, and material movement

* Develop and configure fieldbus and industrial networking architectures, with a strong emphasis on Ether

CAT-based systems

* Implement machine safety systems and interlocks in compliance with applicable safety standards (e.g., ANSI/RIA, ISO, OSHA), including the application of functional safety principles such as SIL or Performance Level (PL) where required

* Design and review electrical control schematics, panel layouts, and P&IDs in coordination with Electrical Engineering and external vendors

* Develop HMIs that balance operator usability with effective diagnostics and troubleshooting capability

* Interface machine-level control systems with higher-level manufacturing systems such as SCADA, MES, and data historians

* Troubleshoot and optimize automated equipment to improve throughput, yield, uptime, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE)

* Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Operations throughout the equipment lifecycle

* Support creation, deployment, and handoff of documentation into production, including operator and maintenance training

* Work with external machine builders, integrators, and suppliers to ensure system performance and compliance

Qualifications

* Education:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical discipline

* Experience:

3+ years of hands-on experience developing and commissioning control systems for manufacturing or industrial automation environments

* Strong experience with PLC platforms used in manufacturing environments (e.g., Beckhoff, Siemens, Rockwell, or equivalent)

* Demonstrated experience standing up or supporting process, manufacturing, or assembly lines, including integration of multiple machines or subsystems

* Proficiency with industrial fieldbus and communication protocols, including Ether

CAT (required); experience with Profinet, Ethernet/IP, CAN, or Modbus is a plus

* Experience integrating sensors, actuators, servo drives, VFDs, and distributed IO in machine control systems

* Solid understanding of industrial electrical systems, control panels, and relevant codes and standards (e.g., NFPA 79, NEC, UL 508A)

* Strong troubleshooting skills across software, electrical, and system-level issues

* Ability to work hands-on in a factory or lab environment, including occasional lifting, standing, and on-equipment debugging

* Must…