Senior Controls Engineer

About Boxbot Boxbot is transforming logistics through flexible automation, creating the dynamic storage systems of the future. As industries face increasing pressure from labor shortages, rising costs, and growing demand for efficiency, our technology provides a smarter, more scalable way to store and handle goods. We replace traditional fixed conveyors and racking with intelligent, spatially aware systems that can dynamically move, store, and retrieve items with precision and speed. Our platform seamlessly integrates advanced robotics with powerful software, delivering a unified solution that optimizes operations across a wide range of industries.

We’re a close-knit, well-funded team moving quickly to bring this technology to market. We’re looking for builders who take pride in their work, thrive on solving hard problems, and are excited to help shape the future of automated storage and logistics.

What to Expect Automation Controls Engineers at Boxbot play a key role in bringing our automated systems to life. They design, architect, and implement controls solutions across a range of automation projects — from automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and robotics to conveyance, sortation, and material handling systems. Controls Engineers establish and maintain our controls standards, lead hardware programming and system commissioning, and oversee the full lifecycle of projects. They also contribute to critical functions such as system audits, installation support, and safety assessments, ensuring our technology performs reliably in the most demanding industrial environments.

What You'll Do • Program and debug structured text on PLC controller platforms (Beckhoff TwinCAT)

• Develop code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable and reusable

• Create robust programs and sequences to control complex, multi-station machinery to perform processes such as material pick and place, sortation, conveyance, storage/retrieval, and material transport

• Write and utilize communication protocols such as OPC-UA to interface equipment with Boxbot's proprietary software (BOS) and to collect data into production databases

• Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for fast and smooth operation (Beckhoff, Yaskawa etc.)

• Design and implement reliable control safety systems for gantries, conveyors, ASRS equipment, and other high-volume material handling equipment as per codes and standards

• Support electrical cabinet builds and field wiring

• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and carefully balance product specifications, process requirements, layout complexity, cost, and lead-time limits

• Integrate systems to customer warehouse control systems and other automation equipment

• Manage suppliers during specification, design, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), and installation of automated material handling equipment

• Drive improvements in performance and reliability across our systems through system efficiency optimization, fault tolerance, and predictive maintenance initiatives

What You'll Bring • Bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics or related field, or 5+ years' experience in Control Systems Design and Implementation

• PLC programming experience (Beckhoff preferred, additional systems are a plus)

• HMI design a plus (TwinCAT HMI, WinCC, Ignition)

• Proficiency creating detailed electrical and fluid schematics in CAD (AutoCAD preferred)

• Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) programming skills

• Experience with test-driven development practices

• Bonus: Proficiency in C++, particularly in developing applications within Linux environments and interfacing with real-time operating systems (RTOS), is highly valued

• Bonus: Experience in warehouse automation, material handling systems, or ASRS technology

• Bonus: Startup experience and entrepreneurial mindset

We are headquartered in Alameda, CA with an easy commute via BART, Ferry, Amtrak and free parking. We take the well-being of our teammates seriously, with benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and more!

If you love new projects, building awesome products and getting stuff done, then we want to talk to you!

Boxbot is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.