PLC Automation and Controls Engineer

BlackSea Technologies began with a simple but enduring principle: the people closest to the mission should shape the tools they use.

That idea took root in Baltimore in 1986 with Maritime Applied Physics Corporation (MAPC), a hands-on engineering firm known for building what others would not. From the earliest unmanned vessels and hydrofoils to the original GARC, which at its start was just a small jet-powered craft designed to launch through surf and survive 30-foot waves, MAPC specialized in bold maritime innovation.

Over time, MAPC was joined by other teams that shared its mission-first mindset. Hard Yards brought digital strategy and agile frameworks trusted by special operations and the intelligence community. Blue Tide Marine supported sensitive test programs with real-world logistics, vessels, and veteran operators. Lakenheath Electronics Design delivered space-rated flight hardware and embedded electronics for the most demanding defense environments.

In 2022, these companies came together through a series of strategic acquisitions to form BlackSea Technologies. Along the same Baltimore waterfront that once launched Liberty ships, we are scaling the next generation of maritime systems. Today it is not steel-hulled freighters but fleets of autonomous vessels like GARC, designed to meet urgent naval needs in contested domains.

We are engineers, operators, and builders. We are part of a new Freedom's Forge, ready to deliver at speed and scale, so those in harm's way have the tools they need to win. We carry the legacy forward under a new name, with the same pride and urgency that shaped our beginnings.

We are BlackSea Technologies.

This position controls Engineering by design, program, and troubleshooting PLC software and HMIs for industrial control systems using Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 suite. Design, develop, and validate models of control systems in emulator software for use in software validation and customer training. Support testing, validation, and commissioning of control systems in compliance with customer requirements and specifications. Documentation & Communication: Assist in generating and releasing technical, operational, and training documentation in line with BlackSea standards. Support DoD and government program office personnel with clear and actionable materials. Troubleshooting: Resolve control system issues using critical thinking and a logical approach. Recommend design improvements based on your findings and expertise. Collaboration: Effectively communicate with government and industry stakeholders, both technical and non-technical, to explain complex control system issues. Work with BlackSea controls and software personnel in other locations to maintain a common awareness of technical issues and status. Continuous learning: Stay updated with technologies and government and industry trends. Advise on current capabilities, limitations and help make predictions for the future. Event Participation: Take part in training, integration, and RDTE (Research, Development, Test & Evaluation) events. Some travel is required to provide on-site support and training for customers.

The Requirements Are

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field.
• Relevant internships or hands-on project experience in robotics, automation, autonomy, or maritime systems is a plus.
• Experience: Between 1 and 4 years of professional experience in controls engineering or related field.
• Skills: Basic knowledge of PLCs, networking, and Allen-Bradley based control systems. Familiarity with electrical and control drawings, including Single-Lines and Process and Instrumentation diagrams. Familiarity with ladder logic and structured text. Ability to use data and system logs to analyze issues, identify root causes, and develop solutions.
• Experience working with industrial control equipment, including starters, VFDs, and motors.
• Strong willingness to learn and adapt to high-tempo operational environments.
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration skills to work effectively with industry and Navy personnel.
• Excellent communication and soft skills to directly interface with customers and represent BlackSea company values. Other: Ability to obtain government clearance if not already obtained.

Desired Skills And Experience

• Experience with Emulate3D and related Rockwell Automation software.
• Previous exposure to fleet operations or maritime platforms.
• Knowledge of Navy operational processes and fleet standards is beneficial.
• Willingness to travel to support training, integration, and operational events.
• Active government clearance.