Senior Controls Engineer

Brooks Automation; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 89,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision and Disability

401(k) Plan

Holidays and Flexible Vacation

Job summary

Brooks Automation is seeking an experienced engineer to design motion control algorithms using digital filtering and control theory, tune feedback on robot hardware, and characterize dynamic performance and stability.

You will apply MATLAB and real-time C/C++ techniques across hardware and software, assist with design verification testing, software configuration, and documentation, and travel to customer sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Background in control theory, dynamic systems, robotics, or related fields.
• Experience with MATLAB and robotics-related toolchains.
• Strong C/C++ programming for real-time systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot and rapidly learn complex systems.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites.

Responsibilities

• Design motion control algorithms using digital filtering and control theory.
• Tune the feedback parameters on robot hardware and characterize dynamic performance and stability.
• Assess throughput, payload vibration, and conduct design verification testing.

Skills

Control theory

Robotics

Vibration analysis

Dynamic systems

MATLAB

C/C++ (real-time)

Multithreading

Lab equipment

Troubleshooting

Travel to customer sites

Java integration

Education

BSEE or BSME

MSEE/MSME or PhD

Tools

MATLAB

C/C++

Lab equipment

Job description

Description

What You’ll Do:

Responsibilities: The candidate will apply digital filtering and control theory to design motion control algorithms and tune the feedback parameters on the robot hardware, characterize the dynamic performance, stability, throughput, payload vibration, design verification testing, software configuration, and documentation/release. The candidate will participate in diverse opportunities to apply the latest principals of robotics and control theory to push the boundaries of performance with tools such as MATLAB.

What You’ll Bring:

• We are looking for an enthusiastic, hands‑on engineer with a broad capability in electro mechanical systems who possesses:
• Knowledge of control theory, dynamic systems, robotics theory, vibration analysis, backend software development
• Including but not limited to related coursework, experience or research in controls, dynamic systems, or robotics
• The ability to learn complex systems quickly and create independently
• Good troubleshooting and problem solving skills
• Competency in MATLAB (controls toolboxes a plus, object-oriented and Java integration preferred)
• Excellent technical communication and presentation skill
• Skilled in C/C++ programming especially for real‑time system
• Prior experience with multithreaded and interrupt driven programming preferred.
• Handy in the use of dynamic signal analyzers and general lab equipment
• BSEE or BSME with 5+ years’ experience or MSEE, MSME or Ph.D. with 3+ years’ experience
• Interest in traveling abroad to visit and integrate robots at customer sites.

This role will sit in either Chelmsford, MA or Austin, TX

Compensation

Base Salary Range: $118,265.18 USD to $160,005.83 USD

Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include geography/market, skills, education, experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.

Benefits

At Brooks, we offer the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Disability Insurance

• 401(k) Plan

• Exempt employees are provided company paid holidays and Flexible Vacation to enjoy personal time off and incidental sickness.

Work Location & Flexibility

At Brooks, we aim to foster a collaborative and engaging environment while offering flexibility where possible. Work arrangements may include a mix of in-office and remote work, depending on the nature of the role and business needs. Specific expectations will be shared during the interview process.

Brooks is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and proudly serves as an equal‑opportunity employer. We welcome all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics.

Diversity enhances our innovative capabilities and strengthens our ability to serve our customers and communities effectively. At Brooks Automation, we celebrate the unique experiences and perspectives each individual brings, believing they are essential to our collective success. Join us in building a workplace where every team member is valued and can thrive.

For applicants with disabilities requiring accommodations, don't hesitate to get in touch with or call [phone] to discuss your needs.

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