Controls Software Engineer

Leupold & Stevens; Beaverton (OR); On-site; USD 115,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Training and professional development

Tuition reimbursement

401K with company contributions up to

Profit sharing

Employee discounts

Job summary

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. in Beaverton, Oregon, is seeking a hands-on Controls Software Engineer to join our automation team. You will design, develop, test PLC software and HMI applications, standardize equipment software, and collaborate with maintenance and production to implement new tools and processes.

The role emphasizes retrofits, documentation, troubleshooting, vendor integration, and continuous improvement, with a starting base salary range of $115,000 to $130,000 (DOE).

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation engineering, mechatronics, or related field.
• 5+ years of PLC programming and industrial automation experience.
• Strong proficiency in major PLC platforms (Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Beckhoff).
• Experience with HMI development software (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Wonderware).
• Experience with control system retrofits and upgrades.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop PLC software using ladder logic, structured text, function block diagrams, or IEC 61131-3 languages.
• Develop HMI applications for operator interaction and configure industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Integrate PLC code with robots, sensors, actuators; perform testing and validation of control systems.
• Retrofitting and upgrading existing control systems on older machines; develop migration strategies.
• Read electrical schematics, wire and troubleshoot wiring as needed.
• Create documentation for PLC programs, test procedures, and user manuals; provide technical support.

Skills

PLC programming

Industrial automation

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field

Tools

Rockwell/Allen-Bradley PLCs

Siemens

HMI software

Ignition

CODESYS

Job description

Controls Software Engineer

Starting Base Salary Range of $115,000 to $130,000 (DOE)

For over 100 years, we've manufactured high-quality products right here in the USA. We still operate out of our Oregon-based factory to this day, producing innovative, battle-proven optics for the world's most relentless hunters, shooters, law enforcement officers, and military personnel. We design, build, and test our best-in-class products with a single-minded focus - to make sure they'll perform forever.

The manufacture of high-quality, precision optics presents unique challenges that demand custom, innovative solutions. Because of this, we have an exciting opportunity for a hands‑on Controls Software Engineer to join our dedicated automation team. You'll be working with cutting‑edge technology in a collaborative environment to relentlessly pursue new manufacturing techniques. This team designs, builds, and implements custom automation tools used to manufacture, assemble, align, and inspect complex optomechanical systems. These tools are critical for driving the future of optics manufacturing and ensuring Leupold will continue to deliver the world's finest optics with unparalleled precision and quality.

When Leupold & Stevens states our products are, "Designed, Machined, and Assembled in the USA," it is largely due to our relentless focus on manufacturing innovation. This is a legacy we have the privilege to uphold for future generations. This role is at the center of protecting that legacy by ensuring that future products continue to outperform, out‑inspire, and outlast all others in the field.

And our benefits package is amazing:

• affordable health and dental insurance
• a strong commitment to training and professional development including an internal skills development program for all manufacturing team members
• a generous tuition reimbursement program
• company contributions up to 8% of base pay into a 401K retirement account
• profit sharing
• and product discounts to name a few

What You'll Be Doing as a Controls Software Engineer:

Develop relationships and collaborate with the automation, maintenance, and various production teams to scope out and develop automation tools in various departments; projects range from updating legacy equipment to developing new tools and processes. Drive equipment and software standardization across various platforms and works with the maintenance team to develop documentation to support the new equipment. Assist the production maintenance team with troubleshooting equipment issues. Work with outside suppliers to stay up to date with up‑and‑coming technologies.

• Design and develop PLC software:
  • Write, test, and debug PLC programs using ladder logic, structured text, function block diagrams, CODESYS, or other IEC 61131-3 languages
  • Develop HMI (Human Machine Interface) applications for operator interaction
  • Configure and program industrial communication networks (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP/IP)
• System integration and testing:
  • Integrate & troubleshoot PLC code with other automation components (e.g., robots, sensors, actuators, dispensers, drives)
  • Conduct testing and validation of control systems to ensure reliable operation
• Retrofitting and Upgrades:
  • Assess existing control systems on older machines to determine upgrade needs
  • Design and implement controls retrofits to improve machine performance, safety, and reliability
  • Develop migration or upgrade strategies for legacy control systems
• Electrical and Wiring:
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics
  • Perform wiring and electrical troubleshooting as needed
• Documentation and support:
  • Create documentation for PLC programs, including design specifications, test procedures, and user manuals
  • Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams
• Continuous improvement:
  • Stay up-to-date on the latest controls and automation technologies and industry best practices. This may include personal research, trainings, and occasionally attending trade shows or industry events
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and optimize process performance
  • Research and develop new manufacturing technologies with the team through collaborative proof of concept projects
• Project collaboration:
  • Work effectively within our larger project teams, including operators, technicians, engineers, and project management
  • Share knowledge and elevate team members around you and provide internal consulting and development expertise to other areas of the company
  • Engage in full project life cycle, through project planning, design reviews, execution, and support

Skills/Experiences Required as a Controls Software Engineer:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automation engineering, mechatronics, or a related field. A combination of education and experience may be considered
• Proven experience (5+ years) in PLC programming and industrial automation
• Strong proficiency in at least one major PLC platform (e.g., Rockwell Automation, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Beckhoff)
• Experience with HMI development software (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Wonderware)
• Experience with control system retrofits and upgrade
• Experience designing and building electrical cabinets
• Hands‑on experience with low voltage electrical wiring
• Experience using Inductive automation's Ignition software for HMI/MES applications
• Motion control experience (IE servo stepper motors, encoders, pneumatic actuators, position sensors, etc.)
• Network Experience (TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP, Serial Communications, Databases)
• Experience with Allen‑Bradley PLCS (MicroLogix 1400 and CompactLogic (V32+))
• Deep understanding of control system principles and industrial automation concepts
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred:

• Knowledge of C#, Python, or other Object‑Oriented Programming language
• Knowledge of SQL database design and REST API usage
• Experience with Legacy GE PLCs
• Experience with a software version control solution (Git, SVN, etc.)
• Knowledge of machine vision and other advanced sensor technologies
• Experience in a precision high tech manufacturing industry
• Passion for hunting or shooting, and the enjoyment of the great outdoors

Work Environment for a Controls Software Engineer:

Work takes place in a manufacturing and office environment. Must be able to lift up to 25lbs, move around manufacturing equipment, and safely manipulate large and small objects. PPE is required in certain area. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Leupold & Stevens, Inc.

14400 NW Greenbrier Parkway

Beaverton, Oregon 97006

* A core business objective at Leupold & Stevens is to maintain a workplace in which each employee can achieve their full potential. The company was founded on the principle of giving customers and our team members 'A Square Deal'; to us, this means advocating for the employment opportunities and advancements of all individuals regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. We resolutely believe all aspects and privileges of employment should be determined by skills and behaviors, not personal identities. We also post the federally required "Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" notice for all employees and applicants.

* With our commitment to make our application process and workplace accessible for individuals with disabilities, we will provide reasonable accommodations upon request, for an individual applicant to participate in the job application process. To request an accommodation to the application process, please send an email to [e-mail] or call [phone] and a Leupold & Stevens representative will contact you.

* Leupold + Stevens, Inc. is a drug free workplace. All final candidates must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

* Leupold + Stevens, Inc. complies with all applicable FAR & DFAR regulations.

* We hire U.S. citizens and persons lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. All new employees must complete an INS Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9). Positions may require a deemed export control license for compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Placement is contingent on Leupold + Stevens, Inc.'s ability to apply for and obtain an export control license on your behalf.