Lead Industrial Controls Engineer - Accelerator Systems
About the Company
xLight is building the world’s most powerful laser to revolutionize semiconductor lithography, metrology, and for other critical applications. Our approach harnesses the power of free-electron lasers, building on accelerator technology in use globally at scientific user facilities. Extending this technology, we are developing industrial-grade light sources, engineered for continuous operation, to meet the sophisticated demands of next-generation patterning, metrology, and inspection applications. Join us in this new revolution.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Lead Industrial Controls Engineer to serve as the architect of advanced control systems for accelerator beamline components. This role offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of cutting-edge particle accelerator technology and industrial automation, designing systems that are critical to the development of commercial free electron laser technology for next-generation X-ray lithography applications.
Key Responsibilities
- System Architecture: Serve as the lead architect for control systems designed to interface with accelerator beamline components, including ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, cryomodule controls, precision motion controls, and temperature monitoring systems.
- Equipment Protection: Design and implement robust equipment protection strategies to safeguard sensitive and expensive accelerator components during operation.
- Controls Development: Develop, test, and commission PLC-based control systems that ensure reliable and precise operation of beamline equipment.
- System Integration: Integrate industrial control systems with the facility's distributed control infrastructure, ensuring seamless communication and coordinated operation.
- Project Execution: Support project planning, execution, and delivery, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to meet technical and schedule requirements.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
- 5+ years of professional experience in industrial controls engineering.
- Strong hands-on experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), including system design, programming, and commissioning.
- Direct experience in one or more of the following areas: Ultra High Vacuum, Cryogenic systems control, Temperature and flow monitoring, precision motion controls systems or Robotics.
- Working knowledge of various sensors and actuators including flow meters, temperature sensors, vacuum valves, position sensors, and motors.
- Understanding of equipment protection principles and implementation strategies for sensitive scientific equipment.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced technical environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Demonstrated experience with the Experimental Physics Industrial Control System (EPICS).
- Experience with Beckhoff PLC hardware and TwinCAT software.
- Familiarity with other PLC platforms such as Allen Bradley or Siemens.
- Project management experience, particularly in the role of Control Account Manager (CAM) or similar leadership positions.
- Knowledge of accelerator physics principles and beamline operations.
Equal Opportunity Statement
xLight Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone. US citizenship or permanent residence is required.