Senior Automation and Controls Engineer
Apply NowCompany: Approach Venture LLC
Location: Los Angeles, CA 90011
Description:
Senior Automation & Controls Engineer - Join a Clean Energy Startup Revolutionizing Mobile Power Systems!
Opportunity Summary
A rapidly growing clean energy startup is pioneering a new era in portable, zero-emission power systems designed for challenging and remote environments. We're developing advanced microreactor technology that could radically transform how off-grid power is delivered, from disaster relief efforts to remote medical infrastructure and national defense. We're looking for a hands-on Senior Automation & Controls Engineer to lead the development of smart, reliable, and safe automated systems that will support the production and refueling of our microreactor units. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a first-of-its-kind energy hardware and be on the ground floor of a company building something truly impactful.
About Us
We're an early-stage venture-backed company focused on developing compact, factory-built nuclear microreactors that provide clean, reliable energy anywhere on Earth. Our microreactor is designed for mobility and resilience, powering everything from remote outposts to mission-critical backup systems. With a fully integrated team of engineers, scientists, and manufacturing experts, we're targeting a groundbreaking test campaign by 2026 and aiming to bring the first of its kind microreactor to market shortly after.
Job Duties
Qualifications
Preferred Experience
Why Join Us
Compensation Details
150,000 - $180,000
Opportunity Summary
A rapidly growing clean energy startup is pioneering a new era in portable, zero-emission power systems designed for challenging and remote environments. We're developing advanced microreactor technology that could radically transform how off-grid power is delivered, from disaster relief efforts to remote medical infrastructure and national defense. We're looking for a hands-on Senior Automation & Controls Engineer to lead the development of smart, reliable, and safe automated systems that will support the production and refueling of our microreactor units. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a first-of-its-kind energy hardware and be on the ground floor of a company building something truly impactful.
About Us
We're an early-stage venture-backed company focused on developing compact, factory-built nuclear microreactors that provide clean, reliable energy anywhere on Earth. Our microreactor is designed for mobility and resilience, powering everything from remote outposts to mission-critical backup systems. With a fully integrated team of engineers, scientists, and manufacturing experts, we're targeting a groundbreaking test campaign by 2026 and aiming to bring the first of its kind microreactor to market shortly after.
Job Duties
- Design and implement advanced automation solutions that will support scalable production and testing of microreactor systems.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (design, manufacturing, and test) to scope, build, and deploy automated machinery and process tools.
- Program, test, and maintain PLCs, emphasizing clean, structured, and modular code-preferably using Beckhoff TwinCat 3.
- Create intuitive HMI interfaces and develop SCADA tools for operational ease and troubleshooting, ideally using Inductive Automation Ignition.
- Lead system integration efforts across robotics, conveyors, gantries, and other factory automation hardware.
- Ensure all equipment designs comply with relevant electrical safety and design codes (e.g., NEC, NFPA, UL508A).
- Manage procurement and integration of components like servo motors, sensors, and controllers.
- Oversee the build and commissioning of custom electrical cabinets and control systems.
- Develop and enforce safety protocols aligned with ANSI/RIA and OSHA standards for robotic and automated systems.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, physics, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience in automation and controls design, development, and deployment in industrial or manufacturing settings.
- Strong experience in PLC programming and industrial control systems.
- Familiarity with design standards like NEC, NFPA, and UL508A.
- Demonstrated ability to work on hardware in a hands-on engineering environment.
- Clear communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
Preferred Experience
- Master's degree in an engineering discipline.
- Experience with robotic welding systems and robotic platforms (Kuka, Fanuc, ABB).
- Simulation tools for PLCs and robotics.
- Familiarity with Zuken E3 or similar electrical CAD tools.
- Experience with C#, .NET, Python, or SQL for system integration or data pipelines.
- Prior work on SCADA and HMI systems for high-reliability applications.
- Hands-on experience assembling and troubleshooting control panels and mechatronic assemblies.
- Exposure to fieldbus systems, Ethernet, and serial communication protocols.
Why Join Us
- Be part of a mission-driven team shaping the future of energy
- Work on breakthrough hardware with real-world impact
- Collaborate with a passionate team of engineers, builders, and visionaries
- Opportunity for career growth and leadership as the team scales
- Strong PTO policy and paid holidays
- Medical, dental, and vision benefits
- 401(k) plan with company matching
- Equity options and ownership in our success
- Access to a hands-on, hardware-centric engineering environment
Compensation Details
150,000 - $180,000