Position SummaryAirJoule is seeking a Controls Engineer (Python Software Development & Automation) to design, develop, and maintain software used for automation, control system integration, and operational tooling. This role will heavily emphasize Python development to support machine automation, instrumentation integration, data acquisition, test automation, and system monitoring.The ideal candidate is a strong Python developer who also understands controls fundamentals and industrial systems, and can build reliable software that supports commissioning, operation, and continuous improvement.Key ResponsibilitiesPython Software Development for Controls & AutomationDevelop and maintain Python-based automation software supporting system operation, commissioning, and diagnostics.Build modular, maintainable Python code for:control sequencing / automation workflowssystem interlocks, permissives, and fault handlingcommand and control interfaces for hardware subsystemsCreate reusable libraries for interacting with instrumentation and controls hardware.Instrumentation and Hardware IntegrationIntegrate sensors, actuators, valves, motors, pumps, and power electronics into software workflows.Implement and maintain communication interfaces using Python, such as:Modbus TCP/RTUOPC UAEtherNet/IP (where applicable via gateways/APIs)Serial protocols (RS-232/RS-485)TCP/IP sockets and vendor APIsDevelop software interfaces to PLCs, PCBA, industrial PCs, DAQs, and embedded controllers.Automation Tooling, Test Frameworks, and Commissioning SupportCreate Python test automation frameworks for validation of controls logic and hardware behavior.Develop automated tools for:I/O checkoutregression testing of system sequencesSupport lab bring-up and commissioning with rapid debugging and iterative software improvement.Data Acquisition, Logging, and AnalyticsBuild Python pipelines for:real-time data acquisition from sensors and control systemsstructured logging and event/alarm recordingperformance monitoring and anomaly detectionImplement clean data interfaces for engineering review and operational optimization.Support integration with databases, historians, or cloud systems (as needed).System Reliability and Continuous ImprovementImprove automation reliability through:robust error handling and safe recovery routineswatchdogs, heartbeat monitoring, and state validationimproved diagnostic visibility (logs, traces, dashboards)Reduce downtime by improving fault detection and troubleshooting workflows.Documentation and Software QualityWrite clear technical documentation for Python tools, APIs, and control workflows.Use best practices including:version control (Git)unit/integration testingpackaging and dependency managementCI practices where applicableEducation and Experience RequirementsMinimum Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.Minimum Experience: 3+ years professional experience writing Python in production, automation, or controls environments.Strong understanding of software fundamentals:performance and reliability considerationsHands‑on experience integrating software with hardware systems.Preferred ExperienceMQTT broker architecture and topic designAWS IoT or similar cloud telemetry platform experienceDeployment experience in cellular bandwidth‑constrained, or air‑gapped environmentsUnderstanding of security fundamentals: certificate / key management, MQTT authentication, ACLs, and firewallsFamiliarity with PLC programming (ladder logic and / or Structured Text)Familiarity with embedded systems and hardware‑software integration testingExperience with controls/automation systems (industrial, lab automation, robotics, or process systems).Familiarity with PLC systems and industrial automation (Rockwell / Siemens / Beckhoff / Codesys).Experience with:Python async systems, multiprocessing, threadingGUI development for engineering/operator tools (PyQt, Dash, Streamlit)MQTT / REST APIs / gRPCExperience with Linux & Windows‑based systems and deployment on industrial PCs.Understanding of PID loops, state machine, and control theory fundamentals.Knowledge, Skills and AbilitiesAbility to work across software + hardware boundaries.Strong troubleshooting ability in real‑world environments (imperfect sensors, noisy signals, intermittent faults)Proficiency with Microsoft office.Strong organizational, analytical, detail‑oriented and problem‑solving skills.Excellent written and oral communication skills.Core Competencies & Soft SkillsStrong attention to detail and disciplined approach to change management.Clear, effective communicator across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams.Self‑driven, organized, and capable of managing multiple ECRs in parallel.Proactive, solution‑oriented mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and product excellence.Other RequirementsApplicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. AirJoule is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.#J-18808-Ljbffr