Controls Engineer

The role

This engineer will design, build, and debug controls systems for battery recycling operations. The role works at the intersection of chemical process engineering, industrial automation, and software development.

What you will do

• Designing and implementing real‑time control software in C++ for embedded and industrial systems
• Developing automation tools, diagnostics, and orchestration scripts in Python
• Writing, optimizing, and troubleshooting Structured Text (IEC 61131‑3) for PLCs and industrial controllers
• Building deterministic control loops, state machines, and safety‑critical routines
• Integrating software with sensors, actuators, drives, and industrial communication networks
• Debugging complex issues involving timing, concurrency, hardware interfaces, and industrial protocols
• Leading system architecture decisions for control platforms and distributed automation systems
• Conducting root‑cause analysis for field issues and implementing long‑term fixes
• Collaborating with controls, electrical, and product teams to translate requirements into robust software designs
• Mentoring engineers in real‑time programming, PLC development, and industrial best practices

Required qualifications

• 2–5 years of hands-on experience in controls engineering, industrial automation, or system integration within a high-volume manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in modern C++ for real-time or embedded systems
• Solid experience with Python for automation, tooling, or data processing
• Hands-on experience writing Structured Text for PLCs or industrial controllers
• Deep understanding of deterministic execution, concurrency, and hardware-software interaction
• Experience with industrial protocols such as Modbus, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, or PROFINET
• Proven ability to lead complex engineering efforts while contributing significant hands-on code
• Strong debugging skills across software, hardware, and network layers
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Nice to have

• Experience with motion control, robotics, or process automation
• Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS environments, or microcontroller development
• Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity standards or best practices
• Experience with simulation tools, digital twins, or hardware-in-the-loop testing
• Background integrating C++ runtimes with PLC or SCADA systems

About the company

Redwood Materials is the largest lithium-ion battery recycler in North America. The company recovers, refines, and redeploys critical minerals from end-of-life batteries back into the supply chain.