Sr Staff Engineer, Equipment Controls
Bloom EnergyAt Bloom Energy, our vision for a world powered by clean, reliable, and affordable energy is more than just a dream—we’re making it reality.
For over two decades, we’ve been at the forefront of the global energy transition, pioneering solutions that empower critical industries to thrive in a rapidly digitizing, energy-intensive world. From revolutionizing power for AI-driven data centers to ensuring resilience for hospitals, electric grids, manufacturing facilities, and utilities, our solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and solid oxide electrolyzer (SOEC) technologies are redefining what’s possible by delivering energy abundance for all. With more than 30,000 fuel cell modules deployed worldwide, we are the trusted partner for Fortune 100 companies and innovators alike. Our cutting-edge solutions enable unparalleled “time-to-power” capabilities, reliability, and sustainability, ensuring our customers remain ahead in a world where soaring energy demand and intensifying energy scarcity are rapidly becoming the new norm.
At Bloom, we thrive on collaboration, bold thinking, and relentless innovation. We believe that, together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future while tackling the most pressing challenges of the 21st century.
The NPI team is seeking a Sr. Staff Equipment Controls Engineer—a highly motivated individual responsible for developing, programming, commissioning, and optimizing new R&D test fixtures and automated systems to support new product development and high-volume production ramp-up. This cross-disciplinary role bridges mechanical, electrical, and software engineering to deliver practical, reliable, and efficient systems that meet design intent and operational goals. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Fremont, CA, requiring presence in the office five days a week.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead architecture, design and deployment of integrated control systems supporting Process Development and Manufacturing processes.
- Own MES and SCADA strategy, including integration with PLCs, equipment and enterprise systems
- Design and develop SCADA applications, including but not limited to dashboards, alarming and reporting
- Implement MES capabilities such as production tracking, traceability, quality data capture and OEE monitoring
- Define and standardize control system architecture, data models, naming conventions and integration frameworks
- Utilize industrial communication protocols to enable reliable data exchange
- Lead or support commissioning activities with cross-functional teams
- Resolve complex system-level issues across controls, SCADA, MES and IT infrastructure
- Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams (Process, Mechanical, Electrical and Software) to define new requirements for new R&D equipment, tools, and test fixtures - primarily developed in-house with occasional engagement with external design teams.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system reliability and scalability
- Repurpose and upgrade existing equipment for feasibilities and proof-of-concept efforts.
- Define automation requirements and ensure manufacturability in collaboration with cross-functional stakeholders
- Partner with Operations to support new product introduction (NPI) and high-volume production ramp-up
- Document and transfer automation processes to Operations
- Train team members during new equipment handoff and support release of the new equipment to ensure smooth transition from NPI to Operations.
Qualifications and Experiences:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Controls Engineering or related discipline
- 8+ years of experience in industrial automation and system integration
- Proven experience in developing, integrating, and commissioning control systems involving SCADA, MES, PLCs, HMIs, motion controls, vision and vision-guided robots
- Expert-level experience with Allen Bradley PLC ladder logic programming and ability to pick up new programming languages as needed
- Strong control, electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills with the ability to identify root cause and implement permanent solutions
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&ID diagrams
- Hands-on experience in systems integration, equipment start-up, and commissioning under aggressive schedules
- Experience developing and integrating robotic systems (preferably FANUC, Omron and Epson) is a plus
- Experience with instrumentation and process gases integration, installation and tool qualification is a plus
- Proficiency in structured text programming experience (preferably Python, C or C++) is a plus
- Experience with 3D camera/sensor height measurement programming using Keyence LJ-V/LJ-X heads and XG/XG-X vision controllers is a plus
- Familiarity with metrology technologies for micron-level feature measurement (e.g., XRF, Eddy Current, 3D sensor, thermography, etc.) for production in-line inspection stations is a plus
- Excellent communication skills -written, verbal and active listening
- Highly motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and manage tasks with minimal oversight
Bloom Energy is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We are committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. All qualified applicants, will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability. Bloom Energy makes reasonable accommodations, consistent with applicable laws, for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified applicant or employee
with a disability, who can perform the essential job functions, unless undue hardship would result.
Bloom Energy is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The total compensation for this position includes standard company benefits and is based on various factors including, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience.
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