The R&D Automation Controls Design Engineer joins the research and process development team to transform how scientific discovery and technology scale-up are conducted. In this role, you will design and deploy next-generation automation, robotics, and engineering solutions to improve experimental throughput and data quality across laboratory and pilot environments. You will develop prototypes, manage project scopes, and oversee equipment installation and commissioning. Key responsibilities include translating technical challenges into scalable systems and ensuring safety compliance. Required skills include expertise in mechatronics, instrumentation, and control systems, alongside proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and programming languages like C++. You will utilize sensors, actuators, motion control systems, and HMIs to solve complex engineering problems, advancing projects from initial concepts through to commercialization in an innovation-driven research environment.
Design and deploy automation and robotics solutions to improve experimental throughput and data quality.
Develop prototypes and custom-engineered systems from initial concept through commercialization.
Lead process development initiatives to accelerate experimentation and enable effective technology transfer.
Define project scopes, support equipment procurement, and oversee installation, qualification, and commissioning.
Evaluate and apply emerging technologies in robotics, sensing, and data systems to create new R&D capabilities.
Manage multiple projects while balancing technical requirements, timelines, budgets, and business priorities.
Ensure all automation systems are safe, reliable, maintainable, and compliant with engineering standards.
Create technical documentation, operating procedures, and troubleshooting resources for sustainable operation.
What we're looking for
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, or Automation Engineering with 3+ years of experience; recent PhD graduates are also considered.
Relevant experience designing, programming, deploying, and troubleshooting robotic systems.
Proficiency in at least one 3D CAD modeling software package; SolidWorks experience preferred.
Proficiency in at least one programming language; C++ preferred.
Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams with strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Experience with laboratory automation, robotic sample handling, vision systems, or integrated scientific instrumentation (preferred).
Experience with controls programming, system integration, data connectivity, or user interface development (preferred).
Ability to access export-controlled technology, technical data, or defense services as authorized by U.S. regulations.
Mechatronics
Robotics
Control Systems
MATLAB
Simulink
PID Controllers
Classical Control Theory
Digital Control Theory
Dynamics
Root Cause Analysis
V&V
Configuration Management
Six Sigma
Lean
Technical Writing
Sensors
Actuators
Servos
Path Optimization Algorithms
Mechatronics
Robotics
MATLAB
Simulink
PID Controllers
Control Systems
V&V
Root Cause Analysis
Six Sigma
Lean
Configuration Management
Dynamics
Sensors
Actuators
Servos
Path Optimization
Digital Control Theory
Classical Control Theory
Technical Writing
Mechatronics
Robotics
Control Systems
MATLAB
Simulink
PID Controllers
Linear and Nonlinear Calibrations
Magnetic Linear Actuators
Magnetic Levitation
Classical Control Theory
Digital Control Theory
Bode Plots
Velocity-Acceleration-Jerk
Feedback Control
Transfer Functions
real time controls
Configuration Management