5 days ago
Controls Engineer
San Luis Obispo, California, United States
$120,000-$180,000 / year
full-timemidDefense Technology
Tech Stack
Description
You will support the development and testing of next-generation small turbojet engines by designing, integrating, and operating engine test control systems, instrumentation, and data acquisition architectures. This hands-on role involves working closely with test and design teams to develop automated control systems for test stands and engine rigs, enabling rapid iteration and high-fidelity performance characterization of turbine propulsion systems.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related field
- 2+ years of experience in controls systems, test automation, or propulsion system development
- Experience designing or integrating data acquisition and control systems for complex hardware systems
- Familiarity with control theory and real-time control software implementation
- Experience working with instrumentation, sensors, and hardware interfaces
- Ability to work hands-on in laboratory or test environments
- Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
- Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information
Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and maintain control systems and data acquisition architectures for turbojet engine test stands and component rigs
- Develop and deploy control software and automation frameworks to command engine systems, actuators, fuel delivery systems, and instrumentation
- Integrate sensors and instrumentation including pressure, temperature, vibration, fuel flow, and shaft speed measurements
- Design and implement real-time control algorithms for engine start, throttle scheduling, safety interlocks, and shutdown sequences
- Develop LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB/Simulink, or PLC-based control applications for automated testing and monitoring
- Interface with propulsion engineers to implement control logic, safety limits, and operating envelopes for turbojet engines
- Perform data analysis and post-test reporting, identifying trends in engine performance, efficiency, and stability
- Troubleshoot hardware and software issues across controls systems, instrumentation, valves, and actuators during test operations
- Support test stand design and upgrades, including control cabinets, wiring architectures, and safety systems
- Contribute to root cause analysis and corrective actions related to engine test anomalies
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