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Redwood Materials, founded in 2017 by JB Straubel (co-founder and former CTO of Tesla), is the largest lithium-ion battery recycler in North America. The company recovers, refines, and redeploys critical minerals from end-of-life batteries back into the supply chain. Redwood has also deployed the largest second-life battery project in the world, delivering power to AI data centers using proprietary energy architecture engineered entirely in-house. The company is profitable and operates in a market projected to grow 20–50x over the next decade.
We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to design, build, and debug best-in-class controls systems for Redwood's battery recycling operations. This role sits at the intersection of chemical process engineering, industrial automation, and software development, and will be critical to designing, commissioning, scaling, and supporting all recycling facilities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and implement real-time control software in C++ for embedded and industrial systems
- Develop automation tools, diagnostics, and orchestration scripts in Python
- Write, optimize, and troubleshoot Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) for PLCs and industrial controllers
- Build deterministic control loops, state machines, and safety-critical routines
- Integrate software with sensors, actuators, drives, and industrial communication networks
- Debug complex issues involving timing, concurrency, hardware interfaces, and industrial protocols
- Lead system architecture decisions for control platforms and distributed automation systems
- Conduct root-cause analysis for field issues and implement long-term fixes
- Collaborate with controls, electrical, and product teams to translate requirements into robust software designs
- Mentor engineers in real-time programming, PLC development, and industrial best practices
Requirements:
- 2–5 years of hands-on experience in controls engineering, industrial automation, or system integration within a high-volume manufacturing environment
- Proficiency in modern C++ for real-time or embedded systems
- Solid experience with Python for automation, tooling, or data processing
- Hands-on experience writing Structured Text for PLCs or industrial controllers
- Deep understanding of deterministic execution, concurrency, and hardware-software interaction
- Experience with industrial protocols such as Modbus, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, or PROFINET
- Proven ability to lead complex engineering efforts while contributing significant hands-on code
- Strong debugging skills across software, hardware, and network layers
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with motion control, robotics, or process automation
- Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS environments, or microcontroller development
- Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity standards or best practices
- Experience with simulation tools, digital twins, or hardware-in-the-loop testing
- Background integrating C++ runtimes with PLC or SCADA systems
