Principal Engineer, Controls & Instrumentation

Job description

About the role As our Principal Engineer, Controls & Instrumentation, you will lead the automation strategy that powers Niron's next generation manufacturing technology. You'll own the architecture, configuration, programming, integration, and optimization of our DCS, ensuring our production systems are safe, reliable, and scalable. From greenfield equipment design and capital projects through commissioning and continuous improvement, you'll partner across engineering, operations, and manufacturing to transform innovative processes into robust, repeatable production. This is a highly visible, hands-on leadership role for an engineer who thrives on solving complex technical challenges and wants to build the automation foundation for a first-of-its-kind manufacturing operation, not simply support an established production line. What you'll do: Lead controls and instrumentation engineering on capital projects from concept through startup and handoff. Own the architecture, programming, and optimization of PLC and DCS systems (Rockwell, Emerson, Siemens, etc.). Develop electrical schematics, control panel layouts, and I/O documentation. Create and maintain technical documentation, including P&IDs, control narratives, and as-built drawings. Design, implement, and improving safety instrumented functions (SIFs) and SIS lifecycle activities in accordance with standards such as IEC61511 and IEC61508. Design and implementation of sequential logic and interlocks in batch process systems. Specify and integrate field instrumentation, sensors, and actuators for process measurement and control. Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including OEE, downtime reduction, and predictive maintenance. Maintain, support and expand the DCS as required. Ensure designs comply with NEC, NFPA 70E, UL508A, and relevant safety standards (e.g., ISO 13849, ANSI/RIA). Develop training programs to enable staff to operate the DCS Collaborate with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and vendors to evaluate and implement new process automation and controls schemes. Quality control of all deliverables within the scope of Control & Instrumentation Interface with Project Management and EPC/DCS/PLC Vendors as required Oversee the development of loop diagrams, control panel layouts, instrument location plans, Industrial Network design, and database design/administration Prepare DCS Specifications, Instrument Data Sheets, and Bid evaluations as required. Contribute to P&IDs related to measurement and control. Develop control narratives Specify instrumentation, analyzers, control systems, and actuated valves. Review vendor drawings, fabrication drawings, and construction submittals for technical compliance. Perform field work to gather data, verify tie-ins, and support construction and startup activities. Build internal and external relationships with key suppliers, customers and internal & external service providers or contractors Work with I&C engineers, technologists and designers to provide DCS / I&C design You might be a great fit if you have: Bachelor’s degree in chemical or Process Engineering with an interest and aptitude in IT based systems. 10+ years of experience in DCS Configuration and Control Engineering within a process or discrete manufacturing environment. Experience in the chemical manufacturing industry preferred. Advanced proficiency in DCS Configuration, PLC programming, (ideally with Emerson, Siemens, or similar platforms). Proficiency in DCS simulation software for process system simulation and design. Strong understanding of P&ID’s with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics, converting them into DCS graphics, interlocks, control loops and batch languages for operator and supervisory control and plant optimization. Preferred: experience with batch processing, MES integration and historian systems. Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and practices. Training and certification in top tier DCS and automation/controls technologies is a plus. Excellent technical writing, documentation, and communication skills, with strong organizational and multitasking abilities. Experience with equipment automation and integration would be an advantage. Physical/Work Requirements: Ability to work on the plant floor, including occasional exposure to noise, heights, and confined spaces Some travel required for vendor visits, commissioning, and multi-site support (~10–25%) Our pay and benefits: Salary: $165,000 - $210,000 annually, depending on education, experience and skills Equity position in Niron via stock option grant Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance Mental healthcare benefits 401k plan with 6% company match Paid time off to take time for what you need in life Experience in a fun, high-performing, manufacturing environment set to change the world Recruiters and Employment Agencies: Please note that Niron Magnetics does not accept unsolicited resumes from external agencies. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our career site, hiring managers, or employees will be considered the property of Niron Magnetics. Consequently, we reserve the right to hire these candidates at our discretion without any financial obligation to the submitting agency. About Niron Niron Magnetics is commercializing the first new magnetic material in decades powered by its breakthrough material formulation and advanced manufacturing process. The company’s proprietary magnet technology based on Iron Nitride enables magnets that are inherently high magnetization, free of rare earths and other critical materials, and solve supply chain reliability challenges, will drive innovation in various industries. Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, Niron Magnetics is comprised of a team of professionals with a desire to make a positive impact on the global community. We were named one of “America's Top GreenTech Companies” for 2024 and 2025 by TIME Magazine and the “Innovation of the Year” at the 2025 mHUB Fourth Revolution Awards. Our team is made up of people who think big, dare to innovate, and strive to impact the planet through technological innovation for our customers. Ready to work alongside amazing people, solve complex problems, and leave a legacy? Join our team.