Commonwealth Fusion Systems
Staff Engineer, Controls and Software
TLDR
Develop machine and operational concepts for next-generation thin-film deposition equipment, ensuring the integration and operation of complex machinery functions harmoniously.
About Commonwealth Fusion Systems:
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy.
Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we’re designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And we're working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future.
We’re in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we’ve raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world.
Now we’re looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who’ll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team.
If that’s you and this role fits, we want to hear from you.
Join the power movement as a Staff Systems Engineer
We’re looking for a Systems Engineer to join our R&D team to serve as the primary Systems Engineer for the next generation of thin-film deposition equipment. You will be responsible for the seamless integration and operation of complex machinery, ensuring that mechanical, electrical, and software subsystems work in harmony.
This role requires a unique blend of technical "tool-sense" and program management. You will be the technical authority for critical utility subsystems, the primary troubleshooter during commissioning, and the lead communicator across functional engineering groups (mechanical, electrical, and controls).
What you'll do:
What we’re looking for:
A bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering field (e.g., EE, mechatronics, software)
10+ years of experience as a controls engineer on complex mechanical systems -- for example: design, construction, and operation of controls for industrial, large-scale equipment
Hands-on experience with industrial control system implementation, including specifying, building, and commissioning industrial control panels, experience with 480VAC power systems, configuring industrial fieldbus’ and components
Proficient in AutoCAD Electrical, for schematic and cable designs
Familiar in structured text programming and the TwinCAT IDE
Familiar with TwinSAFE safety PLC programming
PLC programming experience in IEC 611:31-3 languages
Familiar with modern tools like GitHub and CI/CD release management
Familiarity with Python
HMI design, implementation and maintenance
Inductive Automation’s Ignition platform
Bonus points for:
Experience with Semiconductor Capital Equipment manufacturing
Experience with enclosure design compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards
Experience developing and tuning control loops
Must-have requirements:
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally
Perform activities such as stooping, climbing, standing, sitting for extended periods of time
Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally
Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics
- Work closely with R&D team to outline interfaces and requirements for equipment and software operation for equipment control
- Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and balance product specifications, operational control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead time limits
- Design, modify, and approve electrical schematics for industrial and test equipment (compliant with NFPA79/NEC/UL508A standards)
- Create machine interactions with plant-wide SCADA to communicate product acceptability, machine status, and operational variables
- Write, and debug PLC structured text with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable. PLC code will interact with subsystems and 3rd party equipment
- Implement (ANSI/RIA15.06/OSHA compliant) control reliable safety systems for safeguarding industrial equipment
- Generate aesthetically simple HMI screens for complex machinery while providing sufficient feedback for troubleshooting
- Debug and optimize automated operations to maximize cycle time, improve availability, and yield
- Work with external software contractors to develop the control systems for internal tools (Define requirements, manage priorities, drive testing and implementation plans)
#LI-Onsite
At CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we’re eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.
We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.
This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, “Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.
Commonwealth Fusion Systems is driving the transition to fusion energy by designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. With a blend of decades of research and innovative technologies, we are positioned to lead in the development of a sustainable energy future.
- Founded
- Founded 2018
- Employees
- 51-200 employees
- Industry
- Renewable Electricity
- Total raised
- $200M raised
Staff Engineer