Senior Controls Engineer
TLDR
Lead the design and implementation of advanced control systems for high-energy laser systems, collaborating with multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced control systems and software for high-energy laser systems. You will work cross-functionally with optical, mechanical, and electrical engineering teams to develop robust control architectures, real-time software, and system automation solutions.
Primary Responsibilities:
Design, develop, and deploy control systems and software for large, complex laser systems
Develop and maintain real-time control algorithms for precision motion, thermal regulation, and laser operation
Architect and implement PLC, embedded, and PC-based control systems
Integrate hardware components including sensors, actuators, motion systems, and laser subsystems
Develop HMI/GUI interfaces for system monitoring, diagnostics, and operator control
Perform system modeling, simulation, and performance optimization
Lead system integration, testing, and commissioning activities
Troubleshoot and resolve complex system issues in both development and production environments
Establish and enforce controls standards, documentation, and best practices
Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership across projects
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
10+ years of experience in controls engineering
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Strong experience with:
Control system design (PID, state-space, advanced control methods)
PLC programming
Embedded systems or real-time software development
Programming languages such as C/C++, Python, or MATLAB/Simulink
Experience with motion control systems (servo motors, precision positioning)
Strong system integration and debugging skills
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience working with laser systems, photonics, or optical equipment
Experience developing controls architectures and state diagrams and models for vacuum systems or cooling systems
Experience with developing controls systems to meet safety standards (e.g., laser safety, personnel safety, machine safety)
Experience with FPGA development or high-speed data acquisition systems
Experience developing automated test systems
Key Competencies
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work on complex, multidisciplinary systems
Excellent communication and technical documentation skills
Leadership mindset with the ability to drive projects to completion
Detail-oriented with a focus on system reliability and performance
Salary & Benefits:
The base salary range for this role is $200,000 - $260,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education.
We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!
About Inertia:
Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.
Inertia is focused on the commercialization of fusion energy, utilizing a proven process developed at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. By leveraging successful achievements in fusion ignition, we're poised to transform energy production with advanced technology and significant investment, aiming to make fusion a practical energy source within the next decade.
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