IT Controls Manager

Our client a leading manufacturer in cutting-edge semiconductor and nanotechnology tools is seeking an IT Controls Manager to join their team in Thornton, Colorado. This is a full-time, on-site position reporting to the VP of Engineering. The right candidate will lead the Controls Engineering and IT/OT systems group, responsible for automation architecture, PLC/SCADA development, equipment software integration, and compliance with SEMI and ISO standards. This role ensures the robust and secure control of tools in R&D and production environments, while scaling infrastructure to support global manufacturing sites.

Job Description:

• Lead and mentor a team of control engineers and automation specialists.
• Define long-term controls and automation strategies aligned with company growth and SEMI equipment requirements.
• Drive standardization of control software and hardware across product platforms.
• Oversee design, programming, and validation of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and motion control systems.
• Manage SCADA and data collection systems for tool monitoring, traceability, and predictive maintenance.
• Integrate equipment controls with MES/ERP systems (CiBZ) and ensure interoperability with fab-level automation.
• Ensure secure IT/OT integration, including industrial networks, firewalls, and data flow to enterprise systems.
• Lead adoption of Industry 4.0 and innovative manufacturing technologies.
• Implement cybersecurity and redundancy strategies to meet SEMI S2, ISO 27001, and customer requirements.
• Ensure all control systems comply with SEMI S2/S8, CE/UL, and ISO 9001 requirements.
• Oversee functional safety design, interlocks, and risk assessments for semiconductor tools.
• Support audits, customer acceptance tests, and regulatory approvals.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables for control system development.
• Provide escalated technical support for field and customer issues.
• Collaborate with R&D, process engineering, and global service teams to optimize equipment performance.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or related field.
• 8 - 10+ years in controls/automation engineering, with 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Proven background in semiconductor or advanced equipment control systems (vacuum, gas delivery, robotics, automation).
• Hands-on experience with PLC (Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Beckhoff, etc.), SCADA/HMI, and motion control.
• Strong knowledge of industrial networking (EtherCAT, Modbus, OPC-UA, SECS/GEM).
• Experience with tool integration in cleanroom fabs.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and project management abilities.

All qualified candidates can apply directly to lmd@forgeconsult.com

Forge Consulting is a growth-oriented organization determined to enable our people to realize their potential. Our office culture fosters a friendly, open-minded workplace where employees are encouraged to find balance with their personal and work life. As a member of a dynamic, energy driven team, each employee is eager to learn, valued for their contributions, and approaches each day excited to grow themselves and the company further.

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