PLC Controls Engineer

Summary:

We are seeking a highly capable PLC Controls Engineer to design, program, and commission control systems for advanced maritime equipment including winches, launch and recovery systems (LARS), robotic handling systems, and sensor-integrated electromechanical systems as well as ride control systems in the themed entertainment environment.

This role involves development of real-time motion control systems using PLCs programmed primarily in Structured Text, interfacing with sensors, drives, and vessel control networks in marine environments. The engineer will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers to develop robust, safe, and reliable control systems.

Responsibilities:

Design, program, and test PLC software using Structured Text, with emphasis on modular, maintainable architecture

Develop motion control systems for winches, cranes, launch and recovery systems, and electromechanical actuators in the maritime domain, and ride control systems in the themed entertainment environment.

Implement and tune closed-loop control systems including position, velocity, torque, and tension control.

Interface PLC systems with Servo drives and VFDs, Encoders, resolvers, and load cells, analog and digital sensors, Hydraulic and electric actuators.

Integrate PLC systems with vessel control networks using various protocols.

Develop operator interfaces using HMI systems for monitoring, diagnostics, and control.

Implement safety features including interlocks, emergency stops, and fault handling.

Perform system integration, testing, and commissioning in laboratory and field environments

Troubleshoot control systems and support fielded systems as required.

Produce clear technical documentation including software descriptions, I/O lists, and system documentation.

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in PLC programming and controls engineering
• Strong proficiency in Structured Text (IEC 61131-3)
• Experience with one or more PLC platforms, such as Siemens or Allen-Bradley
• Experience with motion control systems and servo drives
• Experience with industrial communication protocols (EtherCAT, CANbus, Ethernet/IP, Modbus, etc.)
• Experience interfacing sensors including encoders, load cells, and analog instrumentation
• Experience commissioning and troubleshooting real-world systems

Desirable Qualifications:

• MS Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or similar discipline.
• Experience with maritime systems, offshore equipment, cranes, or winches
• Experience with launch and recovery systems (LARS)
• Experience with marine CAN networks (J1939, NMEA 2000)
• Experience with functional safety systems
• Experience with HMI development
• Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or C/C++
• Experience with Git or other version control systems

Job Type: Full-time

Location: Stuart, Florida, USA

Salary: Commensurate with experience.

How to Apply: Applicants should send a cover letter and resume to: HR@searobotics.com

Applicants must be a United States citizen and be able to satisfactorily complete any background check or clearance requirements of relevant United States government agencies.

Pay: $60,500.00 - $89,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person