• Controls Research Engineer

    AO Smith (Milwaukee, WI)


    Controls Research Engineer

     

    Date: Oct 1, 2025

    Location(s):

    Milwaukee, WI, US, 53224

     

    Company: A. O. Smith Corporation

     

    Company / Location Information

     
     

    Our Corporate Technology Center (CTC) in Milwaukee, WI is a state-of-the-art hub where research engineers, material scientists, and technicians collaborate to shape the future of water technology.

     

    Primary Function

    As an Embedded Controls Research Engineer, you will:

    + Lead research and development of advanced embedded control solutions for water heaters, heat pump, hydronic heat, and water treatment systems.

    + Drive improvements to energy efficiency, user experience, and product safety.

    + Support commercialization of new control systems by collaborating with product development teams.

    Responsibilities

    + Develop and apply advanced control algorithms using modeling, optimization, estimation, data science, and sensor technologies.

    + Prototype, simulate, and validate controls solutions in laboratory and real-world environments.

    + Document innovations through patents, technical reports, and publications.

    + Collaborate with global teams across North America, China, and India to integrate controls into market-ready products.

    + Stay ahead of emerging technologies and bring innovative ideas to the table.

    Successful Traits:

    + Inventor: Passion for innovation and continuous learning.

    + Critical Thinker: Ability to solve complex problems and thrive in ambiguity.

    + Forward Looking: Awareness of emerging technologies and market trends.

    + Self-Driven: Strong organizational skills and accountability.

    + Ethical: Commitment to integrity and A. O. Smith’s values.

    + Communicator: Ability to convey technical concepts to diverse audiences.

    Qualifications

    + Master’s degree plus 3 years of relevant experience in engineering with a focus on controls, optimization, estimation or detection algorithms.

    + Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink and C, C++, or Python.

    + Experience developing solutions for complex physical systems (HVAC, mechanical, power, transportation, aviation).

    + Some experience in embedded code development and troubleshooting.

    + Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

    + Willingness to travel at a minimum of 2 weeks per yea r.

    Additional Qualifications:

    + PhD Preferred.

    + Experience with schematic and PCB layout tools, such as KiCad or Altium, a plus.

    + Understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and/or heat pump cycles a plus.

     

    We Offer

     

    Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits plans which include medical and dental insurance, company-sponsored life insurance, retirement security savings plan, short- and long-term disability programs and tuition assistance.

     

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    Nearest Major Market:Milwaukee