Controls Engineer

About the role

SpaceXAI is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to manage and optimize the infrastructure powering our AI research. You will join a small, flat-structured team focused on maintaining high-performance data center operations through direct technical contribution. In this capacity, you will own the reliability and efficiency of the control systems that underpin our computational infrastructure. The role requires direct engagement with both physical plant equipment and digital interfaces to ensure operational stability. You will be responsible for translating high-level requirements into functional control strategies and interfaces. This position demands a self-starter capable of working independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment. Your work will directly impact the uptime and performance of the facilities supporting our AI initiatives.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Deploy and update Building Management Systems (BMS), Electrical Power Management Systems (EPMS), and SCADA infrastructure to align with evolving operational needs.
• Manage critical hardware including pumps, chillers, and power distribution units via PLCs, ensuring all components operate within specified tolerances.
• Design HMI specifications and graphics standards for integration with Grok, focusing on clarity and actionable data visualization.
• Configure automated controls for emergency shutdowns and fire safety protocols, validating logic to ensure correct and reliable activation.
• Build reporting dashboards to track PUE, costs, and performance, adjusting set points to maximize efficiency based on real-time and historical data.
• Coordinate with utility providers to automate responses to grid events, implementing strategies for demand response and load management.
• Conduct testing and commissioning of new control sequences, documenting procedures and results for future reference and compliance.
• Perform root cause analysis on control system anomalies, developing and implementing corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Maintain version control and documentation for all control logic, graphics, and configurations to support knowledge transfer and system integrity.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities for optimization within existing control frameworks and infrastructure.
• Interface with cross-functional teams to gather requirements and deliver control solutions that meet project timelines and technical standards.
• Ensure all control systems adhere to internal procedures and external regulations, maintaining meticulous records for audits and reviews.
• Troubleshoot communication protocols between field devices and supervisory systems, resolving issues to restore full functionality.
• Evaluate emerging control technologies and methods, assessing their applicability and benefit for integration into current infrastructure.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics, Automation, Computer Science, Controls, or a related engineering field providing a foundational understanding of system dynamics and automation principles.
• 5+ years of professional experience in industrial control systems demonstrating a proven track record of managing complex control projects from conception to completion.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Ignition SCADA programming including tag configuration, scripting, and alarm management to create robust and scalable systems.
• Hands-on experience with Siemens TIA Portal PLC programming encompassing ladder logic, function block diagrams, and structured text for efficient system development.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as required to address operational demands, maintenance windows, and unforeseen system events.
• Physical capacity to stand for long periods, work in tight spaces, endure noisy environments, and lift up to 15lbs to perform hands-on maintenance and installations.
• Must pass pre-employment and random drug and alcohol screenings as mandated by company policy and regulatory requirements.
• Strong attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols ensuring all work is conducted in a secure and compliant manner.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills to interact with technical and non-technical stakeholders clearly and professionally.
• Willingness to follow documented procedures and accept guidance from senior engineering staff to maintain team cohesion and project momentum.
• Basic understanding of networking concepts to troubleshoot connectivity issues and ensure reliable data flow between system components.
• Commitment to continuous learning staying current with industry standards and best practices related to control systems and data center operations.

Nice to have

• Mastery of IEC 61131-3 programming languages, specifically ladder logic and structured text, enabling the creation of efficient and maintainable control logic.
• Experience with hardware from Rockwell, SEL, or Siemens providing familiarity with a range of industrial devices and their configuration requirements.
• Background in HMI and GUI development allowing for the creation of intuitive interfaces that enhance operator effectiveness.
• Strong technical project management, documentation, and troubleshooting skills facilitating the successful execution of complex control initiatives.

Practical notes

SpaceXAI is an equal opportunity employer. Please refer to the company recruitment privacy notice for information regarding data processing.

This role is based in Memphis, Tennessee, and operates on a full-time schedule. The position requires availability to work evenings and weekends as dictated by operational needs, including but not limited to maintenance activities, emergency responses, and system upgrades. Employees in this role must be physically capable of performing essential job functions which include prolonged periods of standing, working in confined or restricted spaces, tolerating high-noise environments common to data center facilities, and lifting equipment weighing up to fifteen pounds. Travel is not expected as part of the standard duties for this position; all work activities are to be conducted at the designated facility in Memphis. The engagement is classified as full-time, and candidates must be eligible to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship for this position at this time. All hires will be subject to pre-employment screening which includes verification of identity, employment eligibility, and passing both pre-employment and random post-employment drug and alcohol testing in accordance with company policy. No current visa sponsorship information is available for this role; interested candidates should clearly indicate their existing work authorization status. The position is exempt from the requirement to relocate, and candidates are expected to reside within reasonable proximity to the Memphis worksite to ensure reliable attendance and responsiveness.