Digital Manufacturing Software Engineer (Ignition/Web Stack)

Position Overview

• We are seeking a Digital Manufacturing Software Engineer to build sophisticated, highly customized digital applications for a heavy industrial US defense contractor. This is not a traditional HMI/SCADA configuration role; we are looking for a software-minded engineer who can apply web development fundamentals and disciplined engineering practices to real-time industrial systems.
• Using the Ignition platform as a foundation, you will extend its capabilities through Python, JavaScript, CSS, and SQL to create scalable, production-grade solutions that support complex discrete manufacturing operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Advanced Application Development: Design responsive industrial web applications using Ignition Perspective. Extend out-of-the-box components with custom CSS and JavaScript to meet complex operational needs.
• Systems Integration: Architect seamless data flows between industrial sources (OPC, Kepware, Canary) and enterprise systems (SQL, SAP, SharePoint, Active Directory) via REST APIs.
• Manufacturing Collaboration: Partner with operations, IT, and business analysts to translate high-tempo manufacturing workflows into digital interfaces.
• Software Excellence: Implement robust error handling, logging, and diagnostics. Produce high-quality technical documentation and architecture diagrams.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Software Foundations: Strong proficiency in Python scripting and web UI development (HTML5, CSS, JavaScript).
• Data Mastery: Solid experience with SQL databases, relational data models, and REST API integrations.
• Industrial Aptitude: Familiarity with manufacturing environments, production workflows, or real-time operational constraints.
• Architecture Mindset: Ability to design maintainable, modular software rather than single-purpose screens.
• Travel: Ability to travel to Newport News, VA for 2–3 days per visit (typically once or twice per month).

Preferred Experience (Nice to Have)

• Prior experience with Ignition, Wonderware, or Mendix.
• Exposure to SAP integrations or industrial data pipelines (Kepware/Canary).
• Knowledge of Cloud/Hybrid architectures (AWS Industrial Solutions).
• Experience in Aerospace, Automotive, Shipbuilding, or Heavy Industry.

Selection Process

• Mandatory Background Check: Includes a formal Meet and Greet.
• Skills Assessment: Candidates will be asked to complete a short technical task (2–4 hours) between interviews to demonstrate architecture and implementation logic.