Automation Controls Engineer (Experienced)Location: El Segundo, California, OnsiteCompensation: 165,000 to 244,000 USD per yearUS Citizenship Required (Security Clearance Eligible)Darwin Space are partnered with an exciting national security space company who are developing advanced satellite systems for critical U.S. government missions. They are looking for an experienced Automation Controls Engineer to lead the development of control systems for robotic automation used in spacecraft production.They need someone with deep expertise in PLC programming, industrial robotics, electrical panel design and automated system integration. This is a senior level role responsible for designing and commissioning complex control architectures that support high precision manufacturing and test operations.This position sits within a highly collaborative engineering environment and plays a key part in driving automation capability across spacecraft production.Role OverviewThe Automation Controls Engineer will design, build and deploy PLC based control systems and robotic automation solutions for advanced manufacturing projects. You will own control system design, write IEC 61131 compliant PLC code, develop HMI and SCADA interfaces, integrate industrial robots, lead commissioning at production sites and support troubleshooting of automated systems.This is a technical leadership role that involves mentoring junior engineers, coordinating cross functional engineering efforts and ensuring compliance with safety and industrial standards.Key ResponsibilitiesSystem Design and DevelopmentDesign, program and integrate PLC control systems for robotic and automated machineryDevelop electrical schematics, wiring diagrams and I/O documentationOversee the build of control panels and ensure compliance with electrical and safety standardsSpecify and configure PLCs, HMIs, servo drives, sensors and safety devicesPLC and HMI ProgrammingDevelop structured, well documented PLC code using IEC 61131 compliant languages including Ladder, Structured Text, Function Block, Sequential Function Chart and Instruction ListProgram PLCs from Allen Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff, Mitsubishi or similarDevelop HMI and SCADA interfaces for operator control, diagnostics and data visualisationRobotics IntegrationIntegrate and program industrial robots including Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa or Universal RobotsDevelop motion control logic and communication links between robots and PLCsCommissioning and SupportLead onsite installation, startup and validation of automation systemsTroubleshoot electrical and software issues, perform root cause analysis and implement corrective actionsTrain maintenance and production teams on system operationProject LeadershipMentor junior engineers and support technical developmentContribute to project documentation, planning, scheduling and risk managementEnsure compliance with ISO, IEC, NFPA and CE standardsRequired QualificationsBachelor's or master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics or related disciplineFifteen or more years of experience in industrial control system design and PLC programmingStrong experience programming robotic automation and motion control systemsProven ability to create electrical drawings and design or oversee control panel buildsStrong understanding of industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Profinet and Modbus TCPFamiliarity with machine safety and functional safety systemsProficiency in IEC 61131 programming languagesExperience with HMI or SCADA platforms including FactoryTalk View, WinCC or IgnitionAbility to design and read electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLANExcellent troubleshooting skills across electrical and software systemsPreferred QualificationsStrong communication and leadership skillsAbility to independently manage multiple automation projectsCommitment to quality, safety and continuous improvementAdvanced PLC Programmer certifications such as Advanced Logix 5000 ProgrammerDarwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.Adam Slade#J-18808-Ljbffr