Controls Engineer (PLC)

About the Role

Phiston Technologies is looking for a hands-on Controls Engineer to design, program, and support the industrial automation systems that power our high-security data destruction equipment. You'll own the full controls lifecycle — from PLC and HMI development to robotic integration and AI-enabled monitoring — working alongside electrical, mechanical, IT, and operations teams to push our systems further.

This is a real ownership role with meaningful scope, direct collaboration with engineering leadership, and room to grow your automation and controls expertise in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

What You'll Do

• Design, develop, and implement PLC-based control systems for automated machinery and processes
• Program and optimize PLC logic (Allen Bradley, Siemens, Delta, etc.) and HMI interfaces for performance, integration, and reliability
• Integrate control systems with sensors, motors, actuators, and robotics alongside electrical and mechanical engineering teams
• Design and program robotic automation and motion control systems (servos, VFDs, vision systems)
• Apply AI-enabled monitoring and analytics to industrial automation processes
• Conduct FAT/SAT testing and on-site commissioning to verify safety and performance compliance
• Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and communication issues to minimize downtime
• Create and maintain technical documentation: wiring diagrams, PLC logic, SOPs, architecture diagrams, change control records
• Identify and lead continuous improvement initiatives across control system performance and reliability

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field
• 6+ years of experience in industrial automation, PLC programming, and control system design
• Proficiency in IEC 61131-3 programming languages (Ladder Logic, Structured Text) across platforms: Allen Bradley, Siemens, Automation Direct, Delta, Mitsubishi, Schneider Electric
• Strong command of Python, MATLAB, and SCADA/HMI development tools
• Familiarity with RPA platforms (UiPath, Blue Prism, Zapier) and AI monitoring tools for asset performance
• Automation cybersecurity fundamentals: firewalls, access controls, RFID
• Excellent troubleshooting skills across electrical systems, sensors, actuators, and control panels
• Strong written and verbal communication; comfortable working independently or cross-functionally
• Willingness to travel for on-site commissioning and field support

Bonus Points

• Industrial robotics integration and safety (interlocks, e-stops)
• Vision systems experience (Cognex, Keyence)
• Knowledge of safety standards (ISO, OSHA) and automation risk assessment
• Certification in automation or control systems engineering
• Demonstrated technical leadership and project ownership

Why Phiston

• Direct impact on products used by government agencies, Fortune 500 data centers, and defense contractors
• Collaborative team with real autonomy — no bureaucracy, no hand-holding
• Competitive compensation and a clear path to take on greater technical leadership
• On-site, Miramar FL — hands-on work with the systems you build

Pay: $90,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Relocation assistance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person