Principal Automation Engineer, Controls

The posting, as Mach Industries wrote it

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach Industries is seeking a Principal Automation Engineer, Controls to own the architecture, development, and deployment of our factory controls platform.

You will establish Beckhoff TwinCAT as Mach's standardized controls platform, personally develop automation equipment for pilot production lines, and scale those architectures through external systems integrators executing $20M+ capital equipment programs.

This is a hands-on technical leadership role. You will be expected to move between defining controls architecture and standards, writing and debugging production code, reviewing integrator designs, commissioning equipment on the factory floor, and solving problems during production ramp.

Your ownership extends from initial controls architecture through FAT, installation, commissioning, and Run at Rate.

Key Responsibilities

• Own Mach's factory controls architecture and technical roadmap, standardized around Beckhoff TwinCAT.
• Define standards for PLC software, Beckhoff IPCs, EtherCAT I/O, motion control, industrial networks, machine safety, diagnostics, and factory interfaces.
• Develop reusable TwinCAT software libraries, machine state models, fault handling, recovery strategies, and programming standards.
• Own controls and functional-safety architecture, including safety PLCs, safe motion, interlocks, guarding, emergency stops, and safety validation.
• Personally design, program, integrate, and commission automation equipment for pilot manufacturing lines.
• Translate successful pilot architectures into scalable equipment standards and specifications for production systems.
• Develop controls requirements, Statements of Work, design standards, and acceptance criteria for externally integrated equipment.
• Serve as the controls technical lead for systems integrators executing $20M+ automation programs.
• Lead technical design reviews across electrical systems, PLC software, robotics, motion, networking, machine safety, and factory interfaces.
• Lead controls execution through FAT, SAT, installation, commissioning, and production launch.
• Troubleshoot complex interactions between PLCs, robotics, motion systems, machine vision, instrumentation, safety systems, and factory software.
• Optimize m

[…]
s your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success.

Data Privacy
To view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy .

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!