PLC/Controls Engineer Co-Op Spring 2027

About the role#

Specter Aerospace is seeking 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. This role involves taking ownership of assigned projects from initial concept through implementation, testing, and documentation while working alongside controls, propulsion, electrical, mechanical, and test engineering teams.

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 to support new sensing and control capabilities.
• Integrate sensors, actuators, PLCs, data-acquisition hardware, and other control-system components.
• Develop testing protocols for system shakedown, debugging, characterization, and validation.
• Diagnose hardware, wiring, communications, and control-system issues using electrical test equipment.
• Interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Participate in technical meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions.

What you'll need#

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Familiarity with fundamental software development and controls engineering principles.
• Experience programming in one or more languages through coursework, research, professional work, or student projects.
• Experience debugging and wiring commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) embedded hardware such as PLCs, Arduino, or Raspberry Pi.
• Familiarity with electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, sensors, actuators, or control-system interfaces.
• Hands-on experience in a technical shop, laboratory, or student organization.
• Ability to work independently with changing requirements.
• U.S. citizenship is required; must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Location & details#

• Location: Peabody, Massachusetts
• Term: Summer 2027
• Modality: On-site
• Employment Type: Full-time Co-op