Automation/Controls Engineer

Do you want to be on the cutting edge of the clean energy and climate tech industry? Are you excited about the intersection of renewable energy and the circular economy? We are too. And that's why we launched SOLARCYCLE, an advanced technology-based recycling company.

The solar industry needs a global end-of-life partner to restore, renew, and ultimately recycle yesterday's solar panels for tomorrow's clean energy projects. SOLARCYCLE aims to be the partner of choice for solar asset owners looking for a responsible solution to their end-of-life system needs. And we need you to direct our field operations to help us become a leader in this new burgeoning sector in the renewable energy industry.

About the role

The Controls and Automation Engineer will be responsible for supporting, optimizing, and enhancing the automation systems within our solar panel recycling facility. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in controls and automation, with experience in ladder logic, safety interlocks, and logging, as well as proficiency in Siemens PLC coding. Additionally, the candidate should be a strong project manager, capable of handling complex projects and using project management tools like Microsoft Project or Smartsheet. The position is based in the greater Atlanta area, with an expectation to relocate to Cedartown, Georgia, within 8-12 months. Initially, the role will require regular travel to Odessa, TX, where our first-generation solar panel recycling facility is located.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize automation systems for mechanical, chemical, and electrical machinery used in solar panel recycling. This includes programming and troubleshooting ladder logic, safety interlocks, and logging systems. Program and configure PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMI (Human-Machine Interfaces), and SCADA systems, with a strong focus on Siemens platforms (S7, TIA Portal).
• Collaborate with the production and maintenance teams to ensure that control systems meet operational needs and safety standards.
• Create detailed technical specifications for controls schemas, ensuring the Operations team can understand the basics of how the equipment works. Write and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) for any programmatic changes made to the equipment. Create pseudo-code documentation that explains control algorithms to non-technical stakeholders.
• Lead and manage projects related to equipment automation and optimization, utilizing project management software such as Microsoft Project or Smartsheet to ensure timely and successful project completion.
• Ensure all automation systems meet safety standards and regulatory compliance, implementing necessary safety interlocks and protocols.
• Design, implement, and maintain control systems for production equipment, ensuring reliable and efficient operation.
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software issues related to control systems to minimize downtime and enhance system performance.
• Collaborate with the production and maintenance teams to ensure that control systems meet operational needs and safety standards.
• Integrate new equipment into existing control systems and optimize performance through continuous improvements.
• Develop and maintain electrical control schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation for automation systems.
• Conduct preventive maintenance, calibrations, and system upgrades for control and automation hardware and software.
• Assist in the installation, commissioning, and validation of new equipment, ensuring it is integrated into the control system infrastructure.
• Monitor system performance and apply diagnostic tools to identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency improvements.
• Work with vendors and contractors to source control system components and software, ensuring compatibility and performance standards.
• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in control systems technology, specifically in Siemens-based platforms.

TRAVEL RESPONSIBILITIES

• This role requires frequent travel to our SOLARCYCLE recycling facility in Odessa, TX.
• The requirement to spend multiple weeks at a time in Odessa may arise. On-site accommodations are available.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Controls, or Automation Engineering
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in controls and automation, with a strong focus on ladder logic programming, safety interlocks, and logging.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Siemens PLC coding is a plus.
• Project Management: Strong project management skills, with experience using tech-enabled project management software such as Microsoft Project or Smartsheet.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities, with a proven track record of working effectively in a team environment.
• Detail-oriented with good organizational skills, capable of managing multiple projects and priorities.
• Computer Skills: Proficient in rapid communications using a mobile device and laptop. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong knowledge of Siemens PLC systems (S7, TIA Portal) is highly preferred.
• Hands-on experience with industrial automation hardware, including sensors, actuators, drives, and other control devices.
• Proficient in ladder logic, structured text, and other PLC programming languages.
• Familiarity with HMI, SCADA systems, and communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
• Strong troubleshooting skills for both hardware and software control systems.
• Excellent project management skills with experience managing multiple projects from concept to implementation.
• Familiarity with safety standards and compliance related to automation and control systems.
• Experience with robotic systems, servo motors, and motion control.
• Knowledge of industrial networks and cybersecurity for control systems.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar software for control panel design and electrical schematics.
• Prior experience in optimizing manufacturing processes through automation.

#LI-Onsite

You don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. If you think this role is for you but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right person for this role.

You will be working alongside a highly successful team who deliver amazing innovative work in the solar PV industry The solar industry needs a global end-of-life partner to restore, renew and ultimately recycle yesterday's solar panels for tomorrow's clean energy projects. SOLARCYCLE aims to be the partner of choice for solar asset owners looking for a responsible solution to their end-of-life system needs.

Solar power is one of the most powerful tools humanity has in our fight against climate change. But for solar to truly scale to its full potential, we need to create renewable supply chains and a vibrant secondary market for upcycled panels and recycled materials. Since its launch in 2022, SOLARCYCLE has assembled a world-class management team with experience scaling companies and organizations such as Amazon, Nextracker, Sierra Club, Solaria, and SunPower. The company has secured high-volume contracts with industry leaders such as AES, EDF Renewables North America, EDP Renewables North America, Greenbacker, Ørsted, Qcells, Silfab, Silicon Ranch, and Sunrun. This is the next frontier - ensuring a cleaner, more sustainable and domestic supply of the critical minerals needed for the next wave of solar. We exist to make clean energy massively scalable and even more sustainable by radically advancing recycling technology and infrastructure for the solar industry. If this resonates with you, we really want to meet you.