About the role#
Specter Aerospace is looking for a PLC/Controls Engineer Co-op for a 4-6 month cycle. You will contribute to the development, integration, and testing of control systems within the engine test facility. You will take ownership of assigned projects from initial concept through to final documentation. You will work alongside controls, propulsion, electrical, and mechanical engineers to support experimental and flight vehicle programs.
What you'll do#
- Develop, integrate, and test PLC software for control systems using the Beckhoff PLC ecosystem.
- Design, assemble, wire, and test electrical control panels for new sensing and control capabilities.
- Integrate sensors, actuators, PLCs, data-acquisition hardware, and other components.
- Develop testing protocols for system shakedown, debugging, characterization, and validation.
- Diagnose hardware, wiring, and communications issues using electrical test equipment.
- Interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams as systems evolve.
- Participate in technical meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions.
What you'll need#
- Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
- Experience programming in one or more languages through coursework, research, or student projects.
- Experience debugging and wiring embedded hardware like PLCs, Arduino platforms, or Raspberry Pi systems.
- Familiarity with electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, sensors, and actuators.
- Hands-on experience in a technical shop, laboratory, or student organization.
- Ability to work independently with changing requirements.
- U.S. citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance.
Location & details#
- Location: Peabody, Massachusetts.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Full-time co-op.
- Compensation: $23-$30 per hour.
About Specter Aerospace
Specter Aerospace operates in the aviation industry. The company builds hypersonic flight technology for dual-use applications. It was founded in 2013 and maintains its headquarters in Peabody, Massachusetts. The firm is privately held and currently employs 57 people.
How to get in at Specter Aerospace
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