IT Controls Manager

Job DescriptionIT Controls Manager Our client a leading manufacturer in cutting-edge semiconductor and nanotechnology tools is seeking an IT Controls Manager to join their team in Thornton, Colorado. This is a full-time, on-site position reporting to the VP of Engineering. The right candidate will lead the Controls Engineering and IT/OT systems group, responsible for automation architecture, PLC/SCADA development, equipment software integration, and compliance with SEMI and ISO standards. This role ensures the robust and secure control of tools in R&D and production environments, while scaling infrastructure to support global manufacturing sites. Job Description: Lead and mentor a team of control engineers and automation specialists. Define long-term controls and automation strategies aligned with company growth and SEMI equipment requirements. Drive standardization of control software and hardware across product platforms. Oversee design, programming, and validation of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and motion control systems. Manage SCADA and data collection systems for tool monitoring, traceability, and predictive maintenance. Integrate equipment controls with MES/ERP systems (CiBZ) and ensure interoperability with fab-level automation. Ensure secure IT/OT integration, including industrial networks, firewalls, and data flow to enterprise systems. Lead adoption of Industry 4.0 and innovative manufacturing technologies. Implement cybersecurity and redundancy strategies to meet SEMI S2, ISO 27001, and customer requirements. Ensure all control systems comply with SEMI S2/S8, CE/UL, and ISO 9001 requirements. Oversee functional safety design, interlocks, and risk assessments for semiconductor tools. Support audits, customer acceptance tests, and regulatory approvals. Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables for control system development. Provide escalated technical support for field and customer issues. Collaborate with R&D, process engineering, and global service teams to optimize equipment performance. Requirements: Bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or related field. 8 - 10+ years in controls/automation engineering, with 3+ years in a leadership role. Proven background in semiconductor or advanced equipment control systems (vacuum, gas delivery, robotics, automation). Hands-on experience with PLC (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff, etc.), SCADA/HMI, and motion control. Strong knowledge of industrial networking (EtherCAT, Modbus, OPC-UA, SECS/GEM). Experience with tool integration in cleanroom fabs. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and project management abilities. All qualified candidates can apply directly to Forge Consulting is a growth-oriented organization determined to enable our people to realize their potential. Our office culture fosters a friendly, open-minded workplace where employees are encouraged to find balance with their personal and work life. As a member of a dynamic, energy driven team, each employee is eager to learn, valued for their contributions, and approaches each day excited to grow themselves and the company further.

Created: 2026-03-10