Controls Engineer

At Focused Energy, we are pioneering laser-driven nuclear fusion, and unlocking powerful new technologies along the way. One of these is our Laser-Driven Radiation Source (LDRS): a compact, high-precision neutron system based on advanced laser–plasma physics. Designed to transform non-destructive testing, LDRS has far-reaching applications across energy, security, and infrastructure. From enabling safe long-term storage of nuclear waste to enhancing border protection and supporting the energy transition, this spin-off technology not only accelerates our path to fusion power but also tackles some of the most urgent technical and societal challenges of our time.

Do you like working on the forefront of technological development? Are you interested in neutrons, x-rays, and how to use them to solve impactful societal challenges? Then, Focused Energy in Darmstadt could be a great fit! We are a startup that uses lasers to bring the power of particle accelerators into your backyard. With our compact laser-driven radiation sources (LDRS), we provide a novel technology with unprecedented capabilities to deliver solutions for non-destructive testing, prevent illegal smuggling, and get rid of nuclear waste. Be a part of bringing this technology to market readiness. For moving forward with our technology, we are looking for a Controls Engineer.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement operational control software system for laser-driven particle acceleration instrument.

• Provide control system architecture and design solutions. Set control requirements for individual subsystem components. Participate in design reviews.

• Design and develop advanced feedback systems that receive detector inputs to control motors and optimize overall performance.

• Write and implement adaptive control software, ensuring dynamic response to varying conditions and seamless integration across multiple subsystems.

• Evaluate and configure hardware-software interfaces for robust control architectures.

• Design, build, and integrate controls-related components in collaboration with electrical, mechanical, or optical engineers (control boards, sensors, actuators).

• Participate in experimental campaigns to test, analyze, and refine feedback and optimization systems, implementing improvements based on real-world results.

• Be responsible for your own projects and communicate the results to the team.
  

Role Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Control Systems, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. Hands-on experience with control hardware (sensors, actuators, PLCs, SCADA systems).

• 5+ years of experience in control system design, programming, and hardware integration.

• Proven experience in developing and implementing adaptive control systems for complex environments.

• Expertise in hardware-software integration and configuring system interfaces.

• Strong troubleshooting abilities for diagnosing complex system issues.
  

Skills

• Ability to analyze experimental data and apply findings to refine system performance.

• Effective teamwork skills, especially in cross-functional environments with mechanical and software engineers.

• Strong documentation and communication skills for reporting on system development and performance.

• Excellent problem-solving skills combined with a sharp attention to detail and the ability to critically evaluate technical designs.

Focused Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Focused Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Certain roles may be eligible for incentive compensation, equity, benefits.