Principal Software/Automation Engineer

Job Purpose Principal Software/Automation Engineer must have strong expertise in HDD media sputtering or semiconductor deposition tools. As a Principal Software/Automation Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing automation solutions to tool reconfiguration, optimize production processes and improve efficiency. You will lead software/automation projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies in the automation/machine control field.   Essential Duties & Responsibilities : Lead the design and architecture of automation systems for HDD media sputtering including process controllers, motion control systems, and data acquisition systems. Develop system requirements, functional specifications, and architecture diagrams. Program and configure Siemens PLCs using ladder logic programming to control and monitor processes in HDD media sputtering or semiconductor deposition tools. Develop custom PLC programs for process control, equipment interlocks, and safety functions. Configure and implement Siemens S7/TIA communication networks for seamless data exchange between Siemens PLCs, servo drives, sensors, and other automation devices. Optimize network performance and reliability for real-time control and monitoring. Design and develop Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems with Cellview/MS Access using VBA or Siemens TIA Portal using C#/WinCC for operator control and monitoring of processes for HDD media sputter tools. Develop intuitive user interfaces, alarms, trends, and data visualization features for enhanced process visibility and control. Implement PLC data acquisition software solutions for collecting, storing, and analyzing process data from HDD media sputtering or semiconductor deposition tools. Develop data logging, reporting, and analysis tools for process optimization and performance monitoring. Implement process recipe software solutions for managing process recipes, parameters, and settings in HDD media sputtering or semiconductor deposition tools. Develop recipe management interfaces, data logging, and version control capabilities for recipe optimization and traceability. Collaborate with equipment vendors and internal teams to integrate automation systems with HDD media sputtering or including vacuum systems, gas delivery systems, and substrate handling systems. Ensure compatibility, functionality, and safety of integrated systems. Stay updated with advancements in automation technology. Identify opportunities for process optimization, automation enhancements, and cost savings through automation. Collaborate with equipment engineers, electrical engineers, and project managers to integrate software designs into overall equipment specifications. Provide technical support to installation teams during equipment assembly and testing phases. Highly motivated individual who has Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering or any other related engineering field Extensive experience in automation engineering, with a strong background in HDD media sputtering or semiconductor deposition tools, PLC programming (Step 7/TIA) , HMI programming (VBA,C#/WinCC), PLC data logging, and process recipe software. The candidate must demonstrate technical understanding of Thin Film (PVD/CVD) process equipment and controls.   Direct experience on Intevac 200 Lean sputter tool is highly preferred. Effective communication skills and ability to lead and mentor a team of automation/software engineers. PC skills include MS Excel, Project, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to details. Travel will be required to support job function at offshore locations. WD is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their race, color, ancestry, religion ( ... (truncated, view full listing at source)