Sr. Controls Engineer- Terafab R&D

Terabase Energy; Woodland (CA); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous time off and holiday policy

Remote flexibility

Flexible time off

401k match

Stock options

Home office setup allowance

Job summary

A leading automation company in California seeks an experienced automation controls engineer to drive innovations in large-scale solar project automation. Responsibilities include programming PLCs and designing control systems. Ideal candidates will have programming experience, a degree in engineering, and be self-starters. Competitive salary range is $130,000 - $150,000, with benefits including flexible time off and 401k match.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience programming industrial robots, preferably Kuka.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 30%.
• Self-starter, thriving in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Program and debug on multiple PLC platforms.
• Develop maintainable and reusable code.
• Design programs to control multi-station machinery.

Skills

Programming PLC platforms (TwinCAT, Allen-Bradley)

Python scripting

Object-oriented programming

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Kuka KRL

MS Office

Job description

Overview

Terabase Energy is developing an interconnected software and construction automation platform to support the design, optimization, and construction of large-scale solar projects worldwide. The team blends solar-industry veterans with software, electrical and mechanical engineers, product managers, project managers, sales and marketing professionals. The company is based in Northern California with additional offices globally. We are looking for candidates who are excited by accelerating the decarbonization of the global economy through digital and automation technology.

Position Summary

Terabase is looking for an experienced automation controls engineer. This position reports directly to the Controls and Electrical Engineering manager and will work closely with the factory design teams. Daily activities include contributing to new designs, building and programming prototypes, and commissioning and supporting existing factory systems.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate resourcefulness, analytical problem-solving, strong communication, adaptability, and a high work ethic.

Primary objective is to accelerate decarbonization through digital and automation technology to reduce the cost of utility-scale solar.

Responsibilities

• Program and debug on multiple PLC platforms (TwinCAT, TwinSAFE, Allen-Bradley, Siemens, B&R).
• Develop well-organized, documented, maintainable, and reusable code.
• Proficiency in object-oriented programming and Structured Text.
• Design robust programs and sequences to control multi-station machinery for processes such as material pick and place, dispense, fastening, welding, testing, and conveyance.
• Use Python scripting and SQL to interface equipment with MES and to collect data into production databases.
• Create intuitive HMIs using Ignition.
• Familiarity with industrial protocols including EtherCAT, TCP, Ethernet/IP, CAN.
• Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for fast, smooth operation (Festo, SEW, Nord).
• Design and implement reliable safety systems for robots, gantries, conveyors, and other equipment per ISO/ANSI/RIA standards.
• Assist in electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, pneumatics, and general equipment troubleshooting.
• Manage suppliers during specification, design, buyoff and installation of automated manufacturing equipment.
• Write robot programs from scratch for new cells using Kuka KRL.
• Implement Interference Zones for SafeOperation, DCS, and Workspaces/Protected spaces.
• Commission robots including Mastering, TCP, User Frames, Collision Detection, and Payload calibration.
• Use robotic simulation software for reach studies and offline programming.
• Design, document, and conduct comprehensive machine and system testing.
• Assist purchasing during component selection and vendor approval process.
• Assist in risk assessment of newly designed machines.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years of experience programming industrial robots (Kuka preferred).
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 30%.
• Preferred experience in the industrial manufacturing industry.
• Self-starter, able to thrive in a fast-paced and continually changing environment.
• Strong communication, customer relationship skills, and ability to work effectively within a team.
• Proven skill in MS Office applications (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).

Benefits

Compensation And Benefits

Salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The salary for this role will range between $130,000 - $150,000 annually. Individual pay is determined within this range based on location and other factors, including skills, experience, and education.

Terabase offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Generous time off and holiday policy
• Remote flexibility
• Flexible time off
• Career progression
• 401k match
• Stock options
• Home office setup allowance
• And more

Terabase is an equal opportunity employer. We recruit, hire, train, promote, and compensate individuals based on job-related qualifications. We strongly encourage people of all backgrounds to apply. We do not discriminate for any reason protected by law. We offer a welcoming and inclusive environment in service to our stakeholders and communities.

Principles only. This role is not open to agency candidates. For staffing inquiries, please contact our Recruiting team at [e-mail].