Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Overview:

We’re partnering with a well-funded robotics startup developing next-generation automation systems that merge AI-driven intelligence with classical industrial controls. Their mission is to bridge the gap between modern machine learning and real-world factory robotics — enabling more adaptable, scalable, and intelligent production environments.

This is a small, world-class team working on truly cross-disciplinary problems at the intersection of robotics, automation, and AI and they’re looking for a Senior Automation & Controls Engineer to join onsite in San Mateo.

The Role:

You’ll design and implement advanced robotic automation systems, integrating intelligent control into real production environments- think robotic arms, sensors, and vision systems all talking seamlessly through modern control frameworks.

You’ll collaborate closely with robotics and ML engineers to build automated data-collection systems, test stands, and production-scale automation cells that directly feed AI model development.

This is a ground-floor opportunity to own the controls layer in a fast-moving, technically elite environment.

What You’ll Do:

• Design, implement, and maintain robotic automation systems
• Develop automated test and data-collection systems for AI training
• Integrate PLCs, robots, sensors, and actuators into cohesive systems
• Own the controls aspect of hardware + software integration
• Work directly with founding engineers in a flat, collaborative structure

Must Haves:

• 3-7 years of experience in automation or controls engineering
• Strong experience with PLCs, HMIs, sensors, actuators, and vision systems
• Proven track record building and sustaining production automation systems
• Proficiency in C/C++ (for low-level control) and Python (for automation workflows)
• Knowledge of industrial standards and plant protocols (EtherCAT, Modbus, CAN, etc.)

Why This Role

• Combine industrial automation + AI-driven robotics in one role
• Work directly with elite engineers and founders
• Hands-on, high-impact technical scope
• Competitive salary + equity + relocation to San Mateo, CA