Lead Mechatronics Design Engineer

VDL ETG Singapore
Singapore, SG

Why this role

Pace
Fast Paced
The job demands a fast-paced environment, as evident from the requirement to manage the full development cycle of motion platforms and test systems, indicating a need for quick decision-making and project execution.
Collaboration
High
This role necessitates strong collaboration skills, as the job description highlights the need to work across multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration and performance.
Autonomy
High
The Lead Mechatronics Design Engineer role requires a high level of autonomy, with responsibilities that include defining specifications, managing projects, and leading initiatives to enhance the organization's expertise.
Decision Impact
Team
Decisions made in this role significantly impact the organization's technical direction, as the engineer is responsible for defining specifications, managing technical risks, and leading initiatives to enhance expertise.
Role Level
Team Lead
The complexity of the role is high, given the responsibilities of designing and implementing motion architecture, conducting performance analyses, and managing the full development cycle of complex systems.

Derived from job-description analysis by Serendipath's career intelligence engine.

What success looks like

  • successful project completion
  • enhanced team expertise in motion control
Typical background
mechatronics engineering10+ years of experience in PLC programming and motion control

Transferable backgrounds

  • Coming from Project Manager in the semiconductor industry
    project management · technical leadership
    Experience in managing projects and providing technical leadership in the semiconductor industry directly aligns with the responsibilities of leading the design and development of advanced mechatronic systems.
  • Coming from Automation Engineer at a manufacturing company
    motion control design · PLC programming
    An Automation Engineer with experience in motion control design and PLC programming can easily transition into this role, applying their technical expertise to develop and validate high-precision motion systems.

Skills & requirements

Required

PLC Programming (beckhoff Twincat)Motion Control DesignMechatronicsProject ManagementTeam Leadership

Preferred

Ethercat-based System ArchitecturesSimulation Tools (matlab, Simulink, Python)CAD Software (solidworks, NX)

Stack & domain

PLC ProgrammingMotion Control DesignBeckhoff TwincatEthercat-based System ArchitecturesMatlabSimulinkPythonCAD SoftwareTechnical LeadershipProject ManagementTeam CollaborationProblem-solvingSemiconductor IndustryHigh-precision Fields

About the role

This role involves leading the design and development of advanced mechatronic systems for the semiconductor industry, requiring a seasoned engineer with a knack for translating complex requirements into reliable motion architectures and control software. Ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a proven track record in managing complex projects and mentoring teams.

Original posting from VDL ETG Singapore via LinkedIn

Purpose: Lead the design, development, and validation of advanced mechatronic modules and high-precision motion systems for the semiconductor industry. Manage the full development cycle of next-generation motion platforms and test systems, transforming requirements into reliable motion architectures and PLC-based control software (Beckhoff TwinCAT). Provide technical leadership by defining specifications, managing projects, mentoring engineers, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration, accuracy, and performance from concept to final validation.

Key Area of Responsibilities:

  • Develop, test, and maintain PLC software with TwinCAT, incorporating safety protocols, synchronization, diagnostics, and machine logic. Design HMI interfaces and automates the generation of reports
  • Define, design, and implement motion architecture and control loops to meet strict requirements for accuracy, stability, and throughput. Conduct motion control tuning and signal analysis to ensure optimal dynamic performance
  • Maintain a holistic system-level view to accurately translating customer requirements into detailed motion and control specifications
  • Support project planning and effort estimation. Identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks related to mechatronics within projects
  • Perform calculations, simulations, and tests—including frequency response, step response, and control stability analyses—and evaluate their effects on overall system performance
  • Lead initiatives to enhance the organization's expertise in motion control, PLC programming, and system dynamics

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems & Control, or related discipline
  • At least 10 years of practical experience in PLC programming, motion control design, or high-precision mechatronic systems within the semiconductor industry or other high-precision fields is highly desirable
  • Demonstrated expertise with Beckhoff TwinCAT or comparable PLC/motion platforms (such as B&R, Siemens, Omron).
  • Knowledge of EtherCAT-based system architectures is an advantage
  • Experience with simulation tools (MATLAB, Simulink, Python) and measurement instruments (oscilloscopes, vibrometers, data acquisition systems) is beneficial
  • Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, NX, or similar tools.
  • Experienced engineer skilled in managing complex design projects and leading mechatronic teams. Analytical, practical, quick learner with strong problem-solving skills and a passion for motion control.

Benefits

  • Flexi-Work Arrangement
  • Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
  • Friendly Working Environment

Source: VDL ETG Singapore careers (LinkedIn)

Similar roles