Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer – Software Development

At Standard Motor Products Inc., our multidisciplinary staff distinguishes us as much as the world-class parts we manufacture and distribute. Demonstrating a rare commitment to quality, a genuine passion for the auto market, and a commitment to teamwork, it's our people who support the products in our Vehicle Control Division that help make our lines such winners. Join the 5,000 employees found throughout our Long Island City, NY headquarters, and in 20 factories and distribution centers throughout the country…and world.

Position Overview:

We are looking for a Controls Engineer with strong Python software development skills to design, build, and maintain automated test and control systems. This role sits at the intersection of hardware and software — you will write production-quality Python applications that orchestrate real instruments, acquire data, and validate product behavior in manufacturing and lab environments. A core part of this role is leading our transition away from LabVIEW toward a modern, Python-first test development practice augmented by AI coding tools like Claude Code and Codex.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop Python-based automated test executive (ATE) applications for production and validation environments
• Build and maintain instrument driver libraries for VISA, GPIB, TCP/IP, Modbus, NI-DAQmx, and CAN/LIN interfaces
• Architect data acquisition pipelines: signal conditioning, timestamped logging, and structured reporting
• Write operator-facing GUI applications using frameworks such as PySide6 or similar
• Lead LabVIEW-to-Python migration efforts: audit existing VIs, define equivalent Python architecture, and execute phased rewrites
• Evaluate and integrate AI-assisted development tools (e.g., AI models for code reviews and unit test development) into the test software workflow; document productivity and quality gains to support internal business cases
• Establish Python development standards, project templates, and onboarding guides for the controls team
• Author and maintain design specs, and developer manuals for software assets
• Manage code in Git with feature branches, code review, and CI pipelines
• Partner with firmware, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams to define test requirements and ensure production-ready test station deployment.
• Deploy and maintain test station software on production floor hardware

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in controls or software engineering, preferably in automotive applications
• Experience coding in Python and LabVIEW
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with automotive sensor products, such as battery current sensors, steering angle sensors, and throttle position sensors. Able to interpret datasheets, understand signal characteristics, and develop meaningful test coverage
• Experience with schematic and PCB layout design tools such as OrCAD and/or Altium is a plus

Why Join Us:

• Work on innovative automotive sensor technologies in a quickly accelerating product category.
• Collaborate with a high-performing engineering team.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

The estimated salary range for this position is $105,000- $130,000.