Control Systems Software Engineer

WindWright, a subsidiary of Stratolaunch, accelerates hypersonic development by improving the capacity and capabilities of ground test facilities using digital engineering environments. Our advanced modeling and simulation, synthesized with ground and flight test data, are integrated into authoritative digital models that advance ground test productivity, accuracy, and repeatability improvements across the full customer development campaign. WindWright’s digital engineering framework also enables efficient test planning, rapid test data review, and deeper analysis of the test results, leading to reduced customer costs and risks.

WindWright is developing facility instrumentation and control (I&C) systems to support wind tunnel testing efforts with defense and commercial applications.  WindWright seeks a Control Systems Software Engineer to support instrumentation, data acquisition, and control system development for an existing high-speed wind tunnel.  Candidates must have a closed loop controls background.  Experience with aerospace or defense controls design is a strong plus. 

In this role, you will support the development, implementation, testing, and operation of instrumentation and control systems at WindWright.  Your responsibilities will include developing and testing closed loop (PID) control algorithms, selecting and configuring controller hardware, analyzing and interpreting data from controller tests and operations, tuning controllers, calibrating instrumentation, and supporting PLC and HMI programming as needed. 

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop control logic for various control systems applications
• Develop and implement software for real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Program controllers and human machine interfaces
• Set up and conduct bench tests to validate control system functionality
• Analyze test results and make necessary adjustments to software and control logic
• Collaborate with hardware engineers to ensure seamless integration of software and hardware components
• Maintain detailed documentation of software designs, test plans, and test results
• Identify, document, and communicate design requirements, constraints, and risks
• Support the preparation of business proposals to the US Government and industry
• Travel, as needed, to support the company
• Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity, and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of control systems, state machine, and logic design principles
• Experience with RTOS programming and real-time systems
• Experience with compiled or interpreted programming languages such as C/C++, Python, etc.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities
• Ability to obtain a security clearance at the TS/SCI level

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of ethernet protocols and network configuration
• Experience using emulators, simulation, or mock-ups to develop control systems
• Proficiency with instrumentation and data acquisition development
• Proficiency in PLC programming languages (e.g. ladder logic, function block diagrams, structured text)
• Active TS/SCI security clearance

Required Computer Skills:

• Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software tools
• Controls software languages (C, LabVIEW, Simulink, VxWorks, or similar)
• MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

Education/experience/certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in control systems software development and testing
• Level II ($88,000-$128,000): Bachelor’s degree or higher from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Sr Level ($108,500-157,500): Bachelor’s degree or higher from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Staff-level ($136,000-$197,500): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of relevant experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Benefits and our location:

• Relocation eligible to local area - Sandusky, OH
• 9/80 schedule
• Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan up to the IRS annual limit
• Tuition reimbursement

Sandusky, Ohio, is nestled along the southern shore of Lake Erie, offering an affordable lifestyle with easy access to some of the Midwest’s best attractions. Known for its small-town charm and scenic views, Sandusky is just an hour's drive from Cleveland, providing central access to a range of outdoor and urban activities.

For adventure seekers, Sandusky is home to the world-famous Cedar Point Amusement Park, known for its record-breaking roller coasters and thrilling attractions. Lake Erie offers abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront fun, with nearby islands like Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay perfect for day trips. Nature lovers can explore local parks and the nearby Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located just a couple of hours away.

Not big on the outdoors? You’re within a short drive of Cleveland, Toledo, and Detroit, cities filled with live entertainment, museums, professional sports teams, and cultural sights like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The area is also rich in history, with Sandusky playing a key role in the Underground Railroad, and the nearby Marblehead Lighthouse offering a glimpse into Ohio’s maritime past.

For food enthusiasts, Sandusky and the surrounding region offer a variety of culinary delights, from local seafood fresh from Lake Erie to renowned ice cream at Toft’s Dairy. Wine lovers will enjoy exploring the Lake Erie Wine Trail, while craft beer fans can sample locally brewed options at Sandusky’s growing number of breweries.

Applicants must be a US Person to be considered for this role -

To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in 22 C.F.R. 120.67, which includes (a) U.S. citizens; (b) U.S. nationals; (c) U.S. lawful permanent residents; (d) persons granted refugee status; and (e) persons granted asylum.

WindWright is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law:

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf