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. You will work alongside controls, propulsion, electrical, mechanical, and test engineers to support experimental and flight vehicle programs. This role requires taking ownership of assigned projects from the initial concept through implementation, testing, and documentation.
What you'll do#
- Develop, integrate, and test PLC software for engine test facility 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.
- Interface with engineering teams to refine requirements and define technical scope.
- 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 control-system 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 COTS embedded hardware such as PLCs, Arduino platforms, or Raspberry Pi systems.
- 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 in an environment with changing requirements.
- U.S. citizenship is required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance.
Location & details#
- Location: Peabody, Massachusetts.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Employment Type: Full-time co-op.
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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