Automation & Controls Engineer
--In Person--
SQ4D is a construction technology company developing and deploying advanced robotic systems for concrete 3D printing. Our Autonomous Robotic Construction System (ARCS) combines large-scale robotics, automation, software, motion control, and material delivery systems with the goal of Changing the Way the World is Built ™ .
We are seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Automation & Controls Engineer to help develop, integrate, and improve the electrical, software, motion control, and automation and control systems used throughout SQ4D's construction 3D printing technology.
This role will work at the intersection of hardware and software, supporting everything from PLC programming and industrial automation to Duet development, motion control, machine communications, sensor integration, and software architecture.
If you are passionate about automation and eager to make a significant impact in the construction technology space, we encourage you to apply and join our team!
Responsibilities
- Design and develop system architectures that meet functional and performance requirements.
- Integrate hardware and software components to create cohesive and efficient systems.
- Troubleshoot and resolve system issues, including PLC programs.
- Collaborate with products, engineering, and operations to implement systematic solutions.
- Integrate sensors, actuators, motors, drives, valves, pumps, and other automated equipment into the overall machine control system.
- Configure and troubleshoot motors, drives, encoders, and other motion-control hardware.
- Work with machine kinematics, coordinate systems, homing routines, limit switches, and motion calibration.
- Develop, test, and maintain Duet firmware configurations, macros, machine control logic, and related software tools.
- Troubleshoot communication and integration issues between Duet controllers, PLCs, motor controllers, sensors, and other hardware.
- Analyze machine failures and implement corrective actions to improve reliability and uptime.
Must Have
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field.
- Strong understanding of hardware and software integration.
- Experience with PLC programming and industrial automation.
- Experience with motion control systems, including motors, drives, encoders, homing systems, and multi-axis machines.
- Proficiency in Fieldbus protocols: Ethernet, Profinet, Modbus
- Knowledge of safety standards and compliance requirements.
- Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking skills to address challenges during the printing process.
- Ability to read and understand electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
Nice to have
- 3–5 years in systems engineering, focusing on integration and optimization
- Experience with Duet 3D printer electronics, RepRap Firmware, or similar embedded motion-control platforms.
- Programming or scripting experience (C, C++, and Python)
- Familiarity with construction jobsites or automation equipment
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Experience with RepRap / Duet 3D systems
- G-Code & Machine Kinematics knowledge
- Extensive GitHub portfolio
- Experience operating 3D printers or robotic equipment.
Develop Software Architecture for ARC Systems
The printer is only as good as the software that supports it. As an Automation & Controls Engineer at SQ4D, you will help develop the systems that allow a large-scale robotic construction printer to move, think, communicate, and operate autonomously. Your work may include developing new motion-control capabilities, improving Duet-based printer systems, integrating PLC-controlled equipment, building diagnostic tools, improving machine reliability, and developing the next generation of SQ4D's Autonomous Robotic Construction System.
Hands-on, Multi-disciplinary Robotics Work
This position offers the opportunity to work on a unique combination of robotics, automation, software, motion control, additive manufacturing, and construction technology while directly contributing to the development of revolutionary technology.
We are SQ4D. Strong ideas demand strong engineering.
At SQ4D, the work is hands-on and grounded in real engineering challenges. Projects move quickly from ideas to physical results, and the focus is always on building, testing, and improving, not just talking about solutions. People work closely together, often across different engineering disciplines, and you see firsthand how design choices affect performance, manufacturability, and the final outcome.
The environment is practical, collaborative, and driven by learning. You’re encouraged to ask questions, take initiative, and own your work, whether that means refining a design, running a machine, or solving a problem on the shop floor. SQ4D is a place for engineers who want to develop real skills, gain experience, and grow by doing the work themselves.
What's great about this role?
- The opportunity to operate some of the largest 3D Printers in the world.
- Great team of smart people, in a friendly and open culture
- Real responsibilities and challenges in a fast evolving company
- Exposure to multiple engineering disciplines and workflows
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Direct mentorship and feedback from experienced Automation and Controls team members
