Digital Manufacturing Software Engineer (Ignition/Web Stack)
Role summary
Seeking a Digital Manufacturing Software Engineer to develop highly customized digital applications for a US defense contractor. This role focuses on applying web development fundamentals and engineering practices to real-time industrial systems, using the Ignition platform as a base. Responsibilities include extending Ignition capabilities with Python, JavaScript, CSS, and SQL to build scalable solutions for complex manufacturing operations. Key requirements include strong Python, HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, and REST API integration skills, along with familiarity with manufacturing environments and software architecture design. The position is hybrid, requiring travel to Newport News, VA.
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.