Control Engineer, Oakland

Automation Controls Engineer
Location:
Alameda, CA
Position Overview:
We're partnering with a well-funded robotics startup that is building the next generation of intelligent warehouse automation.
Their platform replaces traditional fixed conveyor systems with dynamic, spatially aware storage and material handling technology — and it's already deployed in real customer environments.
This role is ideal for a controls engineer who wants to do more than maintain legacy systems.
You'll have real influence over how the technology is built, and your fingerprints will be on systems running in production environments across the country.
You'll own controls development from initial concept through commissioning, and work directly alongside engineering leadership on some of the most complex material handling challenges in the industry.
Responsibilities:
Program and debug PLC controllers using Beckhoff TwinCAT and Structured Text (IEC *******)
Develop organized, maintainable, and reusable code for complex multi-station machinery
Write and implement communication protocols (OPC-UA) to interface equipment with proprietary warehouse software and production databases
Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for fast, smooth operation
Design and implement control safety systems for ASRS equipment, gantries, and conveyance systems in compliance with applicable codes and standards
Support electrical cabinet builds and field wiring
Integrate systems with customer warehouse control systems and third-party automation equipment
Manage suppliers through specification, design, FAT, SAT, and installation phases
Drive improvements in performance, fault tolerance, and reliability across deployed systems
Qualifications:
5+ years of experience in controls and automation engineering
Beckhoff TwinCAT PLC programming experience (required)
Structured Text (IEC *******) proficiency
Background in automation-heavy environments: material handling, manufacturing, ASRS, or robotics preferred
Experience with electrical schematics and CAD (AutoCAD preferred)
Ability to travel ~*****% for customer site deployments
Bonus: HMI design experience (TwinCAT HMI, WinCC, or Ignition)
Bonus: C++ development in Linux environments and/or RTOS experience
Bonus: Startup or high-growth environment experience
Why This Role Stands Out:
Work on genuinely novel technology — intelligent robotic storage systems, not legacy conveyor retrofits
High ownership from day one — small team means your contributions are visible and meaningful
Direct collaboration with engineering leadership and influence over how the controls function is built
Real production deployments at customer sites across the country — not just R&D
Well-funded company with strong momentum and a clear path to scale
Competitive base salary and full benefits