LEAD R&D ENGINEER, EMBEDDED CONTROL SYSTEM - CENTRE FOR ENVIRON SUSTAINABILITY

[What the role is]

This is a 2-year contract position as a Lead R&D Engineer in the Centre for Environmental Sustainability.

We are looking for an embedded software engineering expert specialising in industrial embedded control systems, with a strong passion for developing and deploying solutions for industry. You will take a technical leadership role in system architecture and design, working across hardware, software, and control layers to translate concepts into deployable industrial systems.

As part of the Energy Team in CFES, you will work closely with industry partners to deliver applied R&D, consultancy, and system deployment projects aligned with our technology roadmap and focus areas.

Applicants should be motivated, hands‑on engineers who are comfortable taking ownership of end‑to‑end system design, from requirements definition through commissioning and deployment.

[What you will be working on]

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lead the design and development of embedded control systems for industrial and building energy applications

• Architect control systems at component, sub‑assembly, and system level, including controller selection, I/O design, and communication architecture

• Develop and implement control software using PLC platforms and high‑level programming languages (e.g. C++, C#, Python)

• Integrate sensors, actuators, and field devices using common industrial communication protocols (e.g. Modbus, BACnet)

• Define system requirements, design project scope, and prepare technical proposals for industry consultancy projects

• Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, and thermal domains to deliver integrated system solutions

• Conduct applied R&D to develop and translate new technologies in line with CFES’ technology roadmap

• Support commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and performance optimisation of deployed systems

• Deliver training to industry partners through short courses or as part of consultancy engagements

[What we are looking for]

• Degree in Mechatronics, Electrical, Electronic, or related engineering discipline, with at least 5 years of relevant industrial experience

• Strong hands‑on experience in embedded control system development, including PLC ladder logic and function block programming

• Proficiency in one or more programming languages such as C++, C#, or Python, applied to industrial or embedded systems

• Experience with sensor and actuator integration, control panels, and system commissioning

• Familiarity with building systems, BMS, energy management systems, and HVAC applications would be an advantage

• Experience in applied R&D, consultancy, or industrial system deployment

• Ability to work independently while coordinating effectively with staff, student interns, and industry collaborators

• Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and systems‑thinking skills

• Good written and oral communication skills