Controls Engineer

Mach Industries; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

A defense technology company located in California is seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to develop and test next-generation turbojet engines. This hands-on position involves designing control systems and data acquisition architectures for test stands, integrating instrumentation, and deploying automation frameworks. Candidates with a degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and experience in controls systems are encouraged to apply for an exciting role that contributes directly to advanced propulsion technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• 2+ years experience in controls systems, test automation, or propulsion system development.
• Experience designing or integrating data acquisition and control systems for complex hardware systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain control systems and data acquisition architectures.
• Develop and deploy control software and automation frameworks.
• Integrate sensors and instrumentation including pressure, temperature, and fuel flow.

Skills

Control systems design

Test automation

Instrumentation

Problem-solving

Technical debugging

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

LabVIEW

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

C/C++

Job description

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to support the development and testing of next‑generation small turbojet engines. This role will focus on the design, integration, and operation of engine test control systems, instrumentation, and data acquisition architectures used in ground and development testing. You will work closely with the 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.

This is a hands‑on role ideal for engineers who thrive in fast‑paced test environments and want to directly contribute to the development and validation of advanced propulsion technologies.

Key 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.

Required Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with LabVIEW, MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, or PLC programming.

• Knowledge of engine control systems such as FADEC, fuel control units, and actuator systems.

• Familiarity with real‑time data systems, high‑speed data acquisition, or hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing.

• Experience integrating electromechanical systems such as valves, pumps, and servo actuators.

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or propulsion R&D environments.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E‑Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I‑9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!