Staff Controls Engineer
Job description
About the role
Redwood Materials builds domestic battery supply chains by recycling and reusing materials to support the energy transition. This role focuses on the design, commissioning, and scaling of control systems for battery recycling facilities. You will bridge the gap between industrial automation, chemical processing, and software development. The position requires deep expertise in real-time software to ensure facility throughput and safety. You will own the implementation of control logic from initial design through production scale-up. This role is central to translating process requirements into robust software solutions. You will act as a technical leader across multidisciplinary engineering teams. Success in this position means delivering control systems that are reliable, efficient, and maintainable.
Key facts
What you'll do
- Develop real-time control software using C++ for industrial and embedded platforms.
- Create automation scripts, diagnostic tools, and orchestration logic in Python.
- Program and optimize PLC logic using Structured Text per IEC 61131-3 standards.
- Engineer safety-critical routines, state machines, and deterministic control loops.
- Connect software to actuators, sensors, drives, and industrial communication networks.
- Resolve complex technical issues involving concurrency, timing, hardware interfaces, and network protocols.
- Direct architectural strategy for distributed automation and control platforms.
- Perform root-cause analysis on field failures to deploy permanent solutions.
- Coordinate with electrical, product, and controls teams to align software designs with project requirements.
- Provide technical mentorship to engineers regarding industrial best practices and real-time programming.
Requirements
- Proficiency in modern C++ for embedded or real-time systems.
- Experience using Python for data processing, tooling, or automation.
- Practical knowledge of Structured Text for industrial controllers or PLCs.
- Understanding of hardware-software interaction, concurrency, and deterministic execution.
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as PROFINET, OPC UA, EtherNet/IP, or Modbus.
- Demonstrated ability to lead engineering projects while maintaining hands-on code contributions.
- Capability to troubleshoot across network, hardware, and software layers.
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
Nice to have
- Background in process automation, robotics, or motion control.
- Experience with RTOS, embedded Linux, or microcontroller programming.
- Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity standards.
- Familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop testing, digital twins, or simulation tools.
- Experience bridging C++ runtimes with SCADA or PLC systems.
Practical notes
Compensation is based on individual experience. Redwood Materials collects personal identifiers, professional history, and related employment data during the application process to manage hiring operations. Questions regarding privacy may be directed to privacy@redwoodmaterials.com.
The Staff Controls Engineer position is based at the facility in McCarran, Nevada. This is a full-time role that requires on-site presence at the designated work location. The position is not eligible for remote work or relocation assistance. Candidates must be physically present in the McCarran area to perform the essential functions of this job. Travel requirements are not applicable for this role as the position is based entirely at the primary work site. The facility operates on a standard schedule, and adherence to operational hours is necessary to align with production activities. Candidates should be aware that access to the site may be subject to security protocols. Clearance or authorization may be required to enter the facility. This role is critical to the operational success of the battery recycling infrastructure. The work performed will directly impact the efficiency and safety of material processing. The position supports the long-term goals of the company in scaling domestic battery material recovery. Redwood Materials is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability status. The company is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Applicants are encouraged to submit detailed information regarding their technical qualifications. The review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Early application is strongly encouraged. Ensure your submission includes a comprehensive overview of your relevant experience. The hiring team will review materials and contact selected candidates for the next steps. Please submit all requested documentation through the official portal. This role requires a high degree of self-motivation and discipline. The successful candidate will thrive in a fast-paced industrial environment. Attention to detail is essential for this position. The ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly is vital. You will work closely with peers to solve challenging problems. Collaboration is a key component of success in this role. The systems you will work on are integral to the manufacturing process. Your contributions will help determine the scalability of the recycling operations. This position requires a commitment to continuous improvement and learning. You will be expected to adapt to new technologies and methodologies as the company grows. The control systems you build will be used for years to come. This makes thoughtful engineering and documentation a priority. You will have the opportunity to mentor junior staff and lead technical initiatives. The role offers significant responsibility from the outset. Candidates should be prepared to take ownership of complex projects. The work environment is dynamic and requires flexibility. Problem-solving skills are essential on a daily basis. You will be part of a growing team focused on innovation. The position provides exposure to cutting-edge recycling technology. Redwood Materials is building the supply chain of the future. Your work will help define the standards for battery recycling control systems. The company values integrity, excellence, and collaboration. These principles guide all aspects of the business. The role is designed for a highly skilled engineer seeking a challenging career. If you meet the requirements and are passionate about the mission, you should apply. The team is eager to find a dedicated professional to join their ranks. Please take the next step in your career and submit your application today.