Electrical Controls Engineer

ADDiTEC

Electrical Controls Engineer

Durham, NC
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    401(k) matching

    Dental insurance

    Health insurance

    Paid time off

    Vision insurance

    About the Role: We are seeking a versatile and motivated Electrical Controls Engineer to join our team developing next-generation metal additive manufacturing systems, including Liquid Metal and Laser Wire DED (Directed Energy Deposition) 3D printers. This role combines PLC/IPC programming, electrical hardware design, and advanced system integration, with significant hands-on involvement in the lab and on prototype machines.

    You’ll work at the intersection of robotics, thermal processes, motion control, and precision manufacturing. The ideal candidate is technically strong, curious, and adaptable—someone who enjoys solving complex problems, learning new technologies, and collaborating across disciplines in a fast-paced R&D environment.

    Key Responsibilities:

    Design, develop, and troubleshoot control systems for advanced metal additive manufacturing equipment

    Program and maintain PLCs, IPCs, HMIs, and real-time control systems for motion, thermal, and process control

    Develop electrical architectures, including panel design, wiring schematics, and system layouts for high-power and precision equipment

    Integrate subsystems including laser sources, wire feeders, motion platforms, sensors, vision systems, and robotic components

    Support machine build, integration, commissioning, and testing in both lab and production environments

    Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, and integration issues across complex, multi-domain systems

    Collaborate closely with mechanical, materials, and software engineers to optimize print performance and system reliability

    Contribute to process development, including control of melt pools, deposition rates, and thermal management

    Maintain thorough documentation for system designs, revisions, and test procedures

    Required Qualifications:

    Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)

    Experience with PLC and/or IPC-based control systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Siemens, or similar platforms)

    Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, including motors, drives, sensors, and control panels

    Experience with multi-axis motion control systems and real-time automation

    Ability to read, interpret, and develop electrical schematics and technical documentation

    Hands-on experience with system integration, debugging, and field troubleshooting

    Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus, etc.)

    Preferred Qualifications:

    Experience with additive manufacturing, CNC systems, or advanced manufacturing technologies

    Familiarity with laser systems, high-power electrical systems, or thermal process control

    Experience with robotics integration and kinematics

    Knowledge of machine safety systems and applicable standards

    Familiarity with electrical and safety standards (e.g., UL, NFPA, IEC) and experience supporting TÜV or similar machine safety audits and certifications

    Experience with PCB design, embedded systems, or Python scripting

    Exposure to machine vision or in-situ monitoring systems

    Soft Skills & Attributes:

    Team-oriented mindset with a willingness to collaborate across engineering disciplines

    Positive, proactive attitude with strong ownership of projects and outcomes

    Comfortable wearing multiple hats in an R&D-focused, fast-moving environment

    Strong problem-solving skills with attention to detail and system-level thinking

    Effective communicator able to bridge hardware, software, and process discussions

    Hands-on approach with enthusiasm for building, testing, and iterating on real hardware

    What We Offer:

    Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

    Opportunity to work on cutting-edge metal additive manufacturing technology

    A collaborative, low-ego team environment focused on innovation and execution

    Exposure to multidisciplinary challenges spanning controls, materials, and process development

    A culture that values curiosity, initiative, and continuous improvement

    How to Apply:

    Please submit your resume along with a brief summary of your experience with PLC/IPC programming, motion control, and industrial electrical systems, as well as any relevant work in advanced manufacturing or automation.

    Even if you don’t meet every listed qualification, we encourage you to apply. We’re looking for talented, motivated individuals who are eager to learn, take on new challenges, and help drive the success of the company.