Controls Engineer I

Position Summary

Forge Nano is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Controls Engineer I to join the Engineering Design and Manufacturing Team. Reporting to the Senior Engineer, this position will support the development, testing, documentation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automation systems, control logic, and safety schemes for Semiconductor ALD Production Equipment.

The ideal candidate is eager to develop expertise in industrial automation and controls while working in a fast-paced engineering environment. This individual will collaborate closely with Controls Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Manufacturing, and Operations teams to support equipment development, software implementation, commissioning, and process optimization. The Controls Engineer I will contribute to the successful design and deployment of advanced manufacturing equipment through programming, technical documentation, troubleshooting, and system validation activities.

Responsibilities

Controls Programming & Software Development

• Support development and debugging of PLC logic using IEC 61131-3 approved languages.
• Assist with Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text programming and software implementation.
• Support software development activities for automation and control systems.
• Participate in software design reviews and execute assigned programming tasks under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Assist with implementation of machine safety functions and interlock logic.
• Support software verification and validation activities for automated manufacturing equipment.

HMI Development & Documentation

• Assist with GUI and HMI modifications, updates, and operator interface improvements.
• Develop and maintain control narratives, alarm descriptions, and software documentation.
• Contribute technical writing for software user manuals and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Support creation and revision of software specifications and functional documentation.
• Maintain accurate software change records and engineering documentation.
• Ensure documentation aligns with established engineering standards.

Controls Hardware & System Integration

• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communication protocols and networked control systems.
• Support integration and troubleshooting of instrumentation, sensors, and process controls.
• Assist with installation, startup, and commissioning of automation hardware and control systems.
• Troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, field devices, motors, actuators, and related controls hardware.
• Support integration of electrical and mechanical systems into automated equipment.
• Assist with controls checkout and validation activities during equipment startup.

Commissioning, Testing & Technical Support

• Support commissioning, startup, and software testing activities for automated systems.
• Participate in factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and qualification activities.
• Assist with troubleshooting and root cause analysis for controls-related issues.
• Support remote diagnostics and customer technical support activities.
• Assist with tuning and optimization of controls to improve process and equipment performance.
• Document testing results and support implementation of corrective actions when required.

Motion Control & Process Optimization

• Support implementation and tuning of motion control systems including VFDs, motors, and actuators.
• Assist in optimizing control strategies for new processes and equipment modules.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives focused on equipment performance and reliability.
• Analyze operational data and assist with process optimization efforts.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement automation enhancements and system improvements.
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The following responsibilities represent the primary duties of this role and are not intended to be an exhaustive list.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 0-2 years of experience in controls programming, automation, equipment design, manufacturing, or a related technical field.
• Foundational understanding of:
  • PLC Programming
• Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
• Electrical Schematics
• Instrumentation
• Industrial Controls
• Industrial Automation Systems
• Basic understanding of industrial communication protocols and networking concepts.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and technical documentation abilities.
• Ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary engineering teams.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Familiarity with Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text programming.
• Familiarity with Ignition HMI/SCADA platforms.
• Exposure to Allen Bradley Studio 5000 programming environments.
• Familiarity with Python programming and scripting.
• Experience with database connectivity and industrial data systems.
• Understanding of motion control systems including VFDs, motors, and actuators.
• Experience supporting automated manufacturing or semiconductor processing equipment.
• Knowledge of machine safety concepts and industrial automation standards.

Work Environment

This position operates in both office and manufacturing environments. Employees may be exposed to industrial automation systems, electrical equipment, and semiconductor manufacturing processes. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) may include safety glasses, protective gloves, steel-toe footwear, lab coat, and hard hat depending on the work area. Strict adherence to company policies, operating procedures, environmental health and safety requirements, and applicable safety protocols is required. Forge Nano follows all recommended workplace health and safety guidelines.

Physical Requirements

This position requires frequent standing, walking, reaching, and use of hands to operate computers, tools, and equipment. Employees may occasionally work near moving mechanical systems and manufacturing equipment. The employee must regularly communicate with team members and stakeholders in both office and production environments. Moderate noise levels may be present in manufacturing areas. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.

Travel

Up to 15% travel may be required to support customer installations, equipment startups, commissioning activities, maintenance support, training, and other business needs.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000.00 - $90,000.00 annually. The salary range for this exempt position will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and alignment with internal equity among current employees.

Benefits Offered:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• Life and Disability Insurance

• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance

• FSA and HSA Programs

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Company Holidays

• Paid Parental Leave

Forge Nano is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.