software Controls Contractor

Job Description

Test Cube SW/Controls Contractor Location: Boston, MA (On-site) Work Type: Contract Team: Autonomy Test Cube (ATC) Development Scope of Role We are seeking a skilled and proactive Software/Controls Engineer to support the Autonomy Test Cube (ATC)—a large-scale, complex test system used in advanced robotics development. This role involves maintaining and enhancing the ATC’s software interfaces, implementing new features, and debugging across both low-level motor control and high-level orchestration layers. The ideal candidate is a technical leader with a strong background in Python, ROS/ROS2, and PLC systems, who thrives in a hands-on, fast-paced lab environment. You will collaborate with crossfunctional teams and contribute to the evolution of a sophisticated robotics testing platform. Key Responsibilities • Maintain and expand software interfaces for the ATC system. • Implement and debug new features across software and hardware layers. • Lead the design and architecture of scalable, reliable control systems. • Integrate low-level motor controls with high-level orchestration software. • Collaborate with hardware, mechanical, and test engineering teams. • Ensure adherence to coding standards and best practices. • Author and maintain technical documentation. • Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior team members. • Demonstrate ownership and accountability throughout the development lifecycle. Required Qualifications • Proficient in Python, ROS, and ROS2. • Familiarity with PLC programming and ladder logic. • Experience designing and scaling complex systems. • Strong background in integrating physical systems with software controls. • Understanding of software development best practices and coding standards. • Excellent communication and documentation skills. • Demonstrated ability to work independently and drive results. Preferred Qualifications • Experience with web GUI development and web-based control interfaces. • Familiarity with networking protocols and distributed systems. • Hands-on experience with Motionworks, Yaskawa, and Keyence PLCs. • Experience programming gantry systems with multiple degrees of freedom. • Full software development lifecycle experience, including: o Source control (e.g., Git) o Code reviews o CI/CD pipelines o Testing and deployment Leadership & Personal Traits • Strong sense of ownership, initiative, and bias for action. • Proven ability to lead technical efforts and mentor others. • Comfortable making design trade-offs and managing ambiguity. • Thrives in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment. • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills. • Passionate about engineering excellence and continuous improvement. Work Environment • This role is based in a hands-on lab environment, not a traditional office. • Candidates should be comfortable working around active equipment and moderate background noise. • Expect a dynamic, fast-paced setting with frequent cross-disciplinary collaboration.