PLC Engineer

Carnegie Mellon University•Pittsburgh, PA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute (SEI) is seeking a PLC Software Development Engineer to join its engineering team. The role focuses on developing software for U.S. vendor-based PLC platforms using Structured Text (ST), and on designing, programming, testing, and maintaining industrial control systems that support mission-critical operations. The SEI works with defense and government organizations, industry, and academia to improve software engineering capabilities, advance cybersecurity, and apply software engineering to AI systems. The engineer will work with cross-functional teams to define control system requirements and deliver reliable automation solutions. The position requires working onsite throughout the week at either the SEI or a customer facility, with willingness to travel 25% to other SEI offices, sponsor sites, conferences, and offsite meetings. The role is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline and 10 years of experience; or a master's degree in those fields and 8 years of experience; or a PhD 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 in a collaborative team environment as a software developer, software engineer, verification engineer, or in a similar role.
Understanding of the Department of War (DoW) Systems Engineering lifecycle and the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), 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% outside the office location.
Ability to pass a background check and obtain and maintain an active Department of War (DoW) security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience with C and C++ programming, particularly in embedded or industrial software environments.
Familiarity with other 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 teams.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain PLC programs, primarily using Structured Text (ST).
Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define control system requirements and ensure software solutions 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

Professional development opportunities
Access to university resources, including campus fitness facilities, mindfulness programs, and childcare resources
Free transportation on the Port Authority Transit System
Paid parental and military leave
Relocation assistance
Comprehensive medical and prescription insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Retirement savings program with employer contributions
Tuition benefits
Paid time off and observed holidays
Life insurance
Accidental death and disability insurance
Family Concierge Team assistance with childcare needs
Fitness center access