Department: NIAR Automation Research Center 

Campus Location: Wichita, KS WSU Main Campus 

Hire Type: Full-Time - Benefit Eligible 

Pay: Salary starting at $75,000 and commensurate with experience 

Work Schedule: Typically 8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. Evenings and weekends may be required dependent upon business needs. The job is performed in person and on-site in Wichita, KS.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Details

The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) is a leading center for research and development within Wichita State University. The Automation Research Center (ARC) within NIAR extends beyond the aviation industry and focuses on industrial manufacturing, developing innovative solutions that improve efficiency, productivity, and precision. ARC is seeking a Controls Engineer to join our team and assist in designing and optimizing control systems for advanced robotic and industrial equipment. This position, based in Wichita, KS, will involve collaboration with both NIAR engineers and external government and industry partners. If you are detail-oriented, enjoy challenging work, and value teamwork, we encourage you to apply.

Job Summary

Responsible for the design, configuration, and operation of control systems to meet the intent of project requirements. Effectively communicates and build rapport with the project managers to develop and sustain a strong team. Accountable for quality, timeliness and efficiency of designs. Develops sophisticated software programs and commissions and solves problems to ensure proper operations for the control system. Provides detailed information and submittals to communicate design and operation.

Essential Functions

Designs and configures technically sophisticated control systems. Builds flow diagrams, sequence of operations, bill of material, network layouts and electrical schematics as required.
Develops and tests software programs vital to operate the system per the intent of the project requirements.
Coordinates the creation of vital drawings and equipment schedules for submittals and installation.
Selects, orders, and supervises the delivery of materials for assigned projects. Coordinates installation processes to meet specifications and project schedule.
Assists in the loading and commissioning of all system and network-level controllers as required.
Assists in validation of complete system functionality and solves problems to ensure proper operation.
Keeps project team and customer advised of job progress and issues.
Assists in performing site-specific training for customers on the control system.
Participates in release meeting with project team.
Provides cost effective results while maintaining customer satisfaction.
Adheres to and advises on safety standards. High degree of regard to employee and subcontractor safety.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Three (3) years of directly related experience.

Required License/Certifications/Training

Valid Kansas Driver’s License required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge in robot programming, PLC programming, and script-based programming.
Basic understanding of network communication standards.
Effectively interact with a wide range of customers including very technical, non-technical, working level, and senior leaders.
Excellent presentation skills to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Proven knowledge of the automation industry.
Ability to relate technical knowledge to a non-technical audience.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
Detail oriented
May require extensive travel based on project needs

Physical Requirements

Ability to remain in a stationary position.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers and calculators.
Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.
Ability to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially, both receptively and expressively
Ability to move or traverse across campus, within buildings and offices, and/or across external environments.