Senior Manager, Controls Engineering

Senior Manager, Controls EngineeringCommonwealth Fusion Systems is on a mission to deliver the urgent transition to fusion energy. Combining decades of research, top talent, and new technologies, we're designing and building commercially viable fusion power plants. And we're working with policymakers and suppliers to build the energy industry of the future.We're in the best position to make it happen. Since 2018, we've raised nearly $3 billion in capital, making us the largest and leading private fusion company in the world. Now we're looking for more thinkers, doers, builders, and makers to join us. People who'll bring new perspectives, solve tough problems, and thrive as part of a team.If that's you and this role fits, we want to hear from you.What You'll Do:Lead a team of controls engineers to plan and execute near to medium-term goals for production line automation and equipment reliabilityTranslate department-level strategy into clear group objectives and measurable project milestonesDefine and optimize engineering processes and tools within the group to improve cross-functional efficiencyProactively manage risks and resolve complex, non-routine technical barriers with minimal guidanceOversee the design, programming, and troubleshooting of manufacturing equipment, including PLC and robotic integrationEstablish and enforce technical standards and best practices for controls architecture across the departmentManage the full talent lifecycle for the group, including recruiting, hiring, and setting performance expectationsCoach and mentor individual contributors to support their long-term professional growth and technical skill developmentBuild strong partnerships across manufacturing, facilities, and leadership to align on equipment specifications and resolve conflictsFoster a resilient culture by modeling a strong work ethic and propagating company values within the teamOccasionally step in and own smaller projects to support team deficienciesWhat We're Looking For:Bachelor's degree in an engineering field5+ years of experience as a controls or mechanical engineer working on complex automated systems7+ years of direct management experience leading engineering teams, including hiring and performance managementProven ability to integrate Robots, VFDs, and PLCs into high-volume or complex manufacturing linesExpertise in reliable safety systems compliant with ANSI/OSHA standardsStrong analytical rigor and the ability to make sound judgment calls in ambiguous, fast-paced situationsExperience managing external vendors and job shops for the production of custom hardwareBonus Points For:Experience in a Greenfield or Brownfield manufacturing startup environmentDirect experience with Beckhoff (TwinCAT) or Siemens controls platformsExperience driving equipment acceptance tests (FAT & SAT) and developing detailed technical specificationsFamiliarity with thermal/mechanical design for superconducting magnets or similar electromechanical systemsMust-Have Requirements:Ability to lift up to 50 lbs occasionallyPerform activities such as typing, standing, stooping, and sitting, for extended periods of timeDedication to safety to mitigate hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead, high voltage, and cryogenicsWillingness to occasionally travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call$150,000 - $225,000 a yearSalary range for this full-time position + equity + benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. Benefits include:Competitive compensation with equity13 Company-wide HolidaysFlexible vacation days10 sick daysGenerous parental leave policyHealth, dental, and vision insurance401(k) with employer matchingProfessional growth opportunitiesTeam-building activitiesAt CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we're eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, "Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.

Created: 2026-03-16