PLC Engineer

PLC Software Development Engineer

Are you an engineer who enjoys a challenge? Are you excited about working for an FFRDC focused on areas critical to national security? Do you want to join a collaborative team that develops and uses best-in-class tools to enable end-to-end software development? We are seeking a PLC Software Development Engineer to join our engineering team. The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience developing software for U.S. vendor-based PLC platforms using Structured Text (ST) programming language.

This role will play a key part in designing, programming, testing, and maintaining industrial control systems that support mission-critical operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain PLC programs, with a primary focus on Structured Text (ST).
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define control system requirements and ensure software solutions to meet project objectives.
• Conduct thorough testing, debugging, and validation to ensure reliable and safe operation of automation systems.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing PLC programs to improve system performance and maintainability through technical analysis and objective data.
• Develop technical documentation including system specifications, test procedures, and user guides.
• Provide on-site and remote support for system commissioning and upgrades.

Who you are:

• You have a BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline with 10 years of experience; OR an MS in the same fields with 8 years of experience; OR a PhD with 5 years of experience.
• You have hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation PLCs.
• You are proficient in IEC 61131-3 Structured Text programming language.
• You have a strong understanding of industrial control systems, automation architectures, and communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP and Modbus.
• You are experienced with configuration management tools (e.g., Git, SVN), collaboration software platforms (e.g., Git Lab, Jira), along with associated best practices.
• You have worked in a collaborative team environment as a software developer, software engineer, verification engineer, or a similar role.
• You understand the Department of War (DoW) Systems Engineering lifecycle and the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) from requirements management to sustainment.
• You have strong communication skills and the ability to convey difficult engineering or technical challenges to stakeholders.
• You are willing to work 100% of your week onsite at either the SEI or customer facility autonomously with minimal supervision.
• You have a willingness to travel (25%) outside of your office location to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.
• You can pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War (DoW) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with C and C++ programming languages, particularly in embedded or industrial software environments.
• Familiarity with additional IEC 61131-3 languages (Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Sequential Function Chart).
• Experience with Windows OS and common tech stacks for development.
• Proficiency in HMI and SCADA development and integration.
• Knowledge of virtualization technologies (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V, Docker) for testing environments.
• Experience with static code analysis tools and checking compliance with industry standards.
• Understanding of safety instrumented systems and standards (IEC 61508, ISO 13849, etc.).
• Knowledge of multiple PLC platforms and industrial control systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and in team settings.

Why work here?

• Be a part of a world-class organization that has significant impact software in government.
• Work with cutting-edge technologies and leading experts to solve critical government challenges.
• Publish your research, attend or present at prestigious events, and enjoy annual professional development opportunities.
• Get access to university resources, including campus fitness facilities, mindfulness programs, childcare, free transportation on the Port Authority Transit System, and more.
• Take advantage of paid parental and military leave.
• Work in the heart of Oakland, a few blocks from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh.
• Qualify for relocation assistance.

Location:

Pittsburgh, PA