Senior Automation Controls Engineer

Skydio
San Mateo, US
On-siteCareer-pivot friendly

Who this role is best for

Best suited to senior controls engineers with hands-on SCADA and robotics experience working in high-volume manufacturing environments.

Best fit for

  • Industrial automation specialists comfortable with production floor troubleshooting.
    — “Ability to troubleshoot complex electromechanical systems in a production environment
  • PLC programmers with Ignition SCADA expertise seeking hardware integration challenges.
    — “Hands-on experience with SCADA systems (Ignition strongly preferred)
  • Robotics integrators focused on precision dispensing or fastening applications.
    — “Integrate and support industrial robotics used in: Precision dispensing

Things to consider

  • FAA Part 107 certification required within first 60 days.
    — “Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification within the first 60 days
  • On-site work expected for production floor support.
    — “Diagnose and resolve controls and automation issues on the production floor

How to stand out

  • Detail Python implementations for industrial automation projects.
    — “Strong programming skills (Python, structured text, or similar)
  • Showcase specific robotic soldering or fastening system experience.
    — “Robotic or selective soldering
  • Highlight MES integration case studies in manufacturing contexts.
    — “Knowledge of MES integration and data systems
Pace · SteadyCollaboration · HighAutonomy · MediumDecision Impact · TeamLevel · Senior

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

What success looks like

  • Design and maintain control systems
  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs
  • Integrate industrial robotics
Typical background
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field4-5+ years of experience in industrial automation

Skills & requirements

Required

PLC ProgrammingScada SystemsAutomation ControlsRoboticsData CollectionSafety Standards

Preferred

Machine VisionMES IntegrationMotion ControlPython Programming

Stack & domain

ScadaPlcsHmisIgnitionPythonStructured TextCollaborativeCommunicationFaa Part 107ManufacturingAutomationControls Engineering

About the role

Original posting from Skydio via Ashby

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best-in-class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors https://www.skydio.com/solutions/energy-and-utilities to first responders https://www.skydio.com/solutions/public-safety, soldiers in battlefield scenarios https://www.skydio.com/solutions/national-security/tactical-isr, and beyond https://www.skydio.com/solutions.

About the Role:

Skydio is seeking a highly motivated Automation / Controls Engineer to design, implement, and support automated manufacturing systems for our drone production lines. This role will focus on integrating and optimizing control systems, robotics, and SCADA platforms to improve throughput, quality, and reliability.

How You’ll Make an Impact:

  • Design, develop, and maintain control systems for automated manufacturing equipment
  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems (e.g., Ignition)
  • Integrate and support industrial robotics used in:
  • Precision dispensing (adhesives, coatings, etc.)
  • Fastening (torque-controlled assembly systems)
  • Soldering (selective or robotic soldering systems)
  • Develop and maintain system architectures, electrical schematics, and documentation
  • Diagnose and resolve controls and automation issues on the production floor
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, process, and quality engineering teams to optimize system performance
  • Implement data collection and monitoring solutions to improve visibility and decision-making
  • Ensure systems meet safety standards and comply with relevant regulations

What Makes You a Good Fit:

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or related field
  • 4-5+ years of experience in industrial automation or controls engineering
  • Hands-on experience with SCADA systems (Ignition strongly preferred)
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex electromechanical systems in a production environment

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience with robotic systems for:
  • Dispensing applications
  • Automated fastening systems
  • Robotic or selective soldering
  • Familiarity with machine vision systems
  • Experience in high-volume or high-mix manufacturing environments
  • Knowledge of MES integration and data systems
  • Experience with motion control systems and servo drives
  • Strong programming skills (Python, structured text, or similar)
  • Obtaining FAA Part 107 certification within the first 60 days of employment is strongly encouraged for all Skydio employees and required for certain positions.

Compensation: At Skydio, our compensation packages for regular, full-time employees include competitive base salaries, equity in the form of stock options, and comprehensive benefits packages. Compensation will vary based on factors, including skill level, proficiencies, transferable knowledge, and experience. Relocation assistance may also be provided for eligible roles. The annual base salary range for this position is $147 - $240k*. Fundamentally, we believe that equity is the key to long-term financial growth, and we ensure all regular, full-time employees have the opportunity to significantly benefit from the company's success. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to enroll in the Company’s group health insurance plans. Regular, full-time employees are eligible to receive the following benefits: Paid vacation time, sick leave, holiday pay and 401K savings plan. This position and all associated benefits are subject to applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as the Company’s policies and eligibility criteria.

*Compensation for certain positions may vary based on the position’s location.

#LI-BJ1

At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.

For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/

Source: Skydio careers (Ashby)

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