Senior II/ Staff Engineer, Hardware & Controls Engineering, Mechatronic Controls

Lila Sciences•Cambridge, MA

13h

About The Position

Lila Sciences is seeking a Mechatronics Controls Engineer to design and deliver the real-time control software that brings our custom lab instruments to life. You’ll translate electro‑mechanical designs into reliable, automation-ready systems through robust embedded controls and integration.

Requirements

Proficiency in C/C++ and Python programming languages is essential.
Experience building control software for mechatronic systems, motion‑control systems, and instruments on Embedded Linux platforms.
Proven debug skills (schematics, scopes/logic analyzers); drivers for common buses; motion control with servos/steppers/BLDC and encoders.
Demonstrated ability in debugging and problem-solving hardware-software issues.
Strong analytical thinking and a structured approach to troubleshooting and resolving complex technical problems.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
Proficiency with version control systems, especially Git .
8-12 years of experience with Bachelor's degree in Engineering field or related discipline.

Nice To Haves

Experience working directly with end-users (e.g., scientists, laboratory technicians), using feedback to drive product improvements.
Experience developing and integrating PLC control systems especially within the Beckhoff ecosystem.
Experience incorporating 2D/3D machine vision—camera/lens/lighting selection and calibration, real-time image processing, and vision‑guided motion/inspection.
Familiarity with developing and designing PCBs .
familiarity developing HMI or other user interfaces ( UI ).

Responsibilities

Controls Architecture Development: Lead the design and implementation of real-time control logic and specifying hardware across, Embedded Linux platforms, PLC s and integrated systems, ensuring safe and reliable operation of electro-mechanical systems.
Instrument Software/Firmware Development: Develop robust control software and firmware for custom lab instrumentation, ensuring reliable, efficient, and safe controls for motors, actuators, sensors, and other motion control systems.
System Integration: Develop and integrate interfaces ( REST API s and OPC UA endpoints ) to bridge the gap between new and existing instrumentation, automation frameworks, and robotics control systems ensuring reliable, cross-platform interoperability.
Testing and Debugging: Own hardware bring-up, HW‑in‑the‑loop testing, and automation; collaborate closely with EE/ME on requirements and interfaces.
Technical Documentation: Create, update, and maintain clear, comprehensive documentation for driver interfaces, APIs, and integration methods, facilitating ease of use by internal teams and end-users.
Collaboration and Support: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, product managers, and end-users, providing technical support and resolving integration challenges promptly.