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Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Principal Software Engineer - **Company:** Halo Industries, Inc. - **Location:** San Diego, CA, United States - **Experience:** Expert - **Salary:** $129,300.0 - $193,900.0 - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Computer Vision, C Sharp (Programming Language), Software Documentation, Code Review, Communications Protocols, Software Debugging, Ethernet, EtherCAT, Fault Tolerance, Graphical User Interface, Python (Programming Language), Windows Presentation Foundation, Modbus, Software Architecture, RS-232, RS-485 Standard, Software Engineering, Systems Integration, TCP/IP, Real Time Systems, State Machines, Information Technology, Industrial Software, Software Version Control - **Published:** May 21, 2026 - **Apply:** https://www.careerjet.com/jobad/usdf8562e70a905e1be3e4b01d45a65ac8 ## About the Role * Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field * 20+ years of relevant experience in machine control, automation, or industrial software development * Hands-on experience with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, TCP/IP, serial interfaces) * Experience developing software in C# for hardware control and UI applications * Experience with Industrial automation hardware * Understanding of motion control concepts, including PID loop control and state machine design, * Experience in semiconductor equipment or similar industrial environments * Exposure to wafer handling robots or semiconductor devices * Strong problem-solving and debugging skills in complex electromechanical systems * Experience in Python * Experience with SECS/GEM and factory automation systems * Experience with machine vision or camera systems * Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) * Background in mechatronics or automation systems ## Description As Halo transitions from R&D to high-volume manufacturing, we are seeking a Principal Machine Control Software Engineer to support the development, integration, and maintenance of equipment control systems for our semiconductor production tools. This role will focus on hands-on software development and system integration, working closely with cross-functional engineering teams. The engineer will report to a senior member of the machine control team and contribute to building reliable, scalable automation systems. Responsibilities * Lead the design, development, and lifecycle management of advanced machine control software for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, ensuring scalability, reliability, and performance in high-precision environments. * Architect and oversee implementation of industrial communication frameworks, including SECS/GEM, TCP/IP, EtherCAT, Modbus, Ethernet/IP, and RS232/RS485, establishing robust and extensible interfaces across complex systems. * Drive development of high-performance software solutions in C# (including WPF), defining standards for graphical user interfaces, device communication layers, and real-time system monitoring. * Own the integration strategy for hardware subsystems such as robotics, motion control systems, lasers, and data acquisition devices, ensuring seamless coordination between software and physical components. * Define and guide the development of operator control systems, automation logic, and state machines for sophisticated equipment, emphasizing maintainability, fault tolerance, and operational efficiency. * Lead system-level debugging, testing, and validation efforts, establishing best practices and mentoring engineers in root cause analysis and issue resolution across hardware-software boundaries. * Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering teams to drive end-to-end system integration, influencing design decisions and resolving complex technical challenges. * Establish and enforce software architecture standards, control methodologies, and safety practices aligned with industry regulations and internal quality benchmarks. * Champion engineering excellence through code reviews, documentation standards, version control strategies, and continuous improvement of development processes. * Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams, contributing to strategic planning, technology roadmaps, and innovation initiatives within the organization. ## Related Videos - [More efficient software for more efficient microchips](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1164-more-efficient-software-for-more-efficient-microchips) - [Optimizing Land-Based Fish Feeding with Node-RED](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2032-optimizing-land-based-fish-feeding-with-node-red) - [An Applied Introduction to eBPF with Go](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/1075-an-applied-introduction-to-ebpf-with-go) - [Enabling intelligent logistics automation: home-grown Industrial IoT platform at Austrian Post](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/2018-enabling-intelligent-logistics-automation-home-grown-industrial-iot-platform-at-austrian-post) - [Turning Container security up to 11 with Capabilities](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/718-turning-container-security-up-to-11-with-capabilities) - [How to Domain Model – An example from manufacturing](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/742-how-to-domain-model-an-example-from-manufacturing) ## Related Articles - [Highest Paying Tech Companies for Developers](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/220-highest-paying-tech-companies-for-developers) - [Is Software Engineering Hard?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/448-is-software-engineering-hard) - [How software is steering vehicle technology](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/515-how-software-is-steering-vehicle-technology) - [What is Software Engineering?](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/289-what-is-software-engineering) - [The Best Software Developer Blogs to Read](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/156-the-best-software-developer-blogs-to-read) - [Software Engineer Career: Things You Should Know](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/magazine/143-software-engineer-career-things-you-should-know)