Controls Design Engineer

ATC Automation is seeking a skilled and forward-thinking Controls Design Engineer to join our onsite team in Simi Valley, CA. In this role, you will take full ownership of controls software design and system integration for a broad range of custom automation projects-from rapid R&D prototypes to highly complex, high-throughput production systems. You will collaborate directly with customers to define project requirements and partner with a multidisciplinary engineering team to deliver fully integrated, high-performance automation solutions. Offering a competitive salary range of $100,000 to $130,000 annually, this position supports both your technical growth and long-term career development within an innovative and fast-paced environment.

You will also receive a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life Insurance, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, and Paid Time Off. If you're driven by solving complex automation challenges and motivated to make a meaningful impact, this is an excellent opportunity to showcase your expertise.

Meet ATC Automation:

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been redefining what's possible in custom automation. From concept to commissioning, we partner with leading brands across the globe to design and deliver custom machinery that drives efficiency, precision, and long-term performance. Our automation expertise spans critical industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Science, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

How You Will Make a Difference: 

• Design, develop, test, and commission custom automation control systems, including logic, motion control, robotics, data acquisition, and vision systems
• Program and integrate off-the-shelf automation components such as industrial robots, smart sensors, servo systems, and vision cameras 
• Translate customer requirements into functional control strategies and technical specifications
• Ensure projects are completed on schedule and within budget while meeting performance, reliability, and safety standards
• Support equipment assembly, debug, and commissioning both in-house and at customer facilities
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams for seamless system integration
• Work with external vendors and subcontractors to specify, source, and integrate system components
• Design intuitive HMI interfaces and support connectivity with MES/ERP platforms
• Communicate directly with customers to refine requirements, review progress, and provide system training
• Travel to customer sites (~5%) for installation, commissioning, and service support

Job Requirements:

• Demonstrated experience developing controls software for PLCs or industrial control platforms within custom automation
• Proficiency in programming languages such as VB.NET, C, or similar
• Foundational experience with HMI/GUI development and PLC programming tools (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Beckhoff)
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols including RS232, Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus, and CAN bus

Preferred Experience: 

• BS or higher in electrical engineering, mechatronics, or a related technical discipline
• Hands-on experience in a controls design role within custom automation or special machine building
• Strong knowledge of:
• Programming and tuning servo motors, stepper motors, and VFD systems
• Integrating and troubleshooting machine vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence)
• Field devices (sensors, actuators) and signal processing for digital and analog I/O
• Reading and interpreting mechanical and electrical schematics for troubleshooting and design validation
• Selecting appropriate vision hardware (lenses, lighting, filters, etc.) for specific applications

Physical Requirements:

• Work in standing/sitting position continuously.
• Stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead, and bend to floor.
• Physically be underneath machines working overhead.
• Exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally.
• Exert 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently.
• Exert up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects
• VISUAL ACUITY: Near acuity with or without accommodation
• HEARING Ability: Ability to monitor machine sounds to identify and diagnose, with or without accommodation

Disclaimer:

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.