PLC Engineer

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

17h•Onsite

About The Position

Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking a PLC Software Development Engineer to design, program, test, and maintain industrial control systems supporting mission-critical operations. The role focuses primarily on developing software for U.S. vendor-based PLC platforms using Structured Text (ST) and contributes to work for a federally funded research and development center focused on national security. The engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams to define control system requirements, validate reliable and safe automation, improve existing programs, create technical documentation, and support commissioning and upgrades. The position requires working onsite 100% of the week at either the SEI or a customer facility, with 25% travel to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings. The successful candidate must be able to pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline and 10 years of experience; or a master's degree in the same fields and 8 years of experience; or a Ph.D. and 5 years of experience.
Hands-on experience with Rockwell Automation PLCs.
Proficiency in IEC 61131-3 Structured Text programming.
Strong understanding of industrial control systems, automation architectures, and communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP and Modbus.
Experience with configuration management tools such as Git or SVN, collaboration platforms such as GitLab or Jira, and associated best practices.
Experience working collaboratively as a software developer, software engineer, verification engineer, or in a similar role.
Understanding of the Department of War Systems Engineering lifecycle and the Software Development Lifecycle, from requirements management through sustainment.
Strong communication skills and ability to explain difficult engineering or technical challenges to stakeholders.
Willingness to work onsite 100% of the week at an SEI or customer facility, autonomously and with minimal supervision.
Willingness to travel 25% to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings.
Ability to pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience with C and C++ programming, particularly in embedded or industrial software environments.
Familiarity with additional IEC 61131-3 languages, including Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, and Sequential Function Chart.
Experience with Windows OS and common technology stacks for development.
Proficiency in HMI and SCADA development and integration.
Knowledge of virtualization technologies such as VMware, Hyper-V, or Docker for testing environments.
Experience with static code analysis tools and checking compliance with industry standards.
Understanding of safety instrumented systems and standards such as IEC 61508 and ISO 13849.
Knowledge of multiple PLC platforms and industrial control systems.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and in team settings.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain PLC programs, primarily using Structured Text (ST).
Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define control system requirements and deliver software solutions that meet project objectives.
Test, debug, and validate automation systems to ensure reliable and safe operation.
Troubleshoot and optimize existing PLC programs to improve performance and maintainability using technical analysis and objective data.
Develop technical documentation, including system specifications, test procedures, and user guides.
Provide onsite and remote support for system commissioning and upgrades.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement savings program with employer contributions.
Tuition benefits.
Paid time off and observed holidays.
Life, accidental death, and disability insurance.
Relocation assistance.
Paid parental and military leave.
Annual professional development opportunities.
Access to university campus fitness facilities and a fitness center.
Mindfulness programs.
Childcare resources and access to a Family Concierge Team.
Free transportation on the Port Authority Transit System and a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
Access to university resources.