Automation Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer Job Description
As a Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for creating, updating, and troubleshooting PLC ladder logic and HMI screens to meet customer needs and internal standards. You will work with advanced technologies such as cameras, robots, and sensors to ensure the seamless integration of all components in an automated machine. Your role will include testing machine sequences and verifying the correct wiring and operation of physical components before deployment. You will act as the main controls programmer on small to mid-sized automation projects, supporting schedules, milestones, and machine build timelines. Additionally, you will maintain organized project documentation and contribute to customer manuals.
Responsibilities

• Create, update, and troubleshoot PLC ladder logic and HMI screens.
• Work with cameras, robots, and sensors for smooth machine operation.
• Test machine sequences and verify wiring of physical components.
• Serve as the main controls programmer for automation projects.
• Support project schedules, milestones, and machine build timelines.
• Maintain organized project documentation including wire lists and calibration data.
• Review and contribute to machine manuals for accurate customer documentation.
• Support technicians during machine builds and provide troubleshooting assistance.
• Travel to customer sites for machine installation, updates, and service calls.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in controls programming or industrial automation.
• Strong PLC programming skills, including ladder logic, with knowledge of structured text or function block.
• Experience with HMI/SCADA development.
• Proficiency in working with robots, vision systems, sensors, drives, AC/DC circuits, and motion control systems.
• Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Comfortable troubleshooting complex control systems independently.
• Experience with validation activities in regulated settings.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Knowledge of UI design principles for HMIs.
• Familiarity with Rockwell PanelView or Optix HMIs.
• Experience with industrial communication networks like Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or ProfiNet.
• Hands-on experience with vision systems such as Cognex or Keyence.
• Experience with robotic process automation and system architecture.

Work Environment
You will work in a dynamic environment where you will be involved in the full automation lifecycle, from design support and programming through testing, installation, and service. The role involves travel to customer sites for machine installations and service calls. You'll collaborate with a team of skilled technicians and engineers, with opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies and contribute to innovative solutions. The position offers an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as part of the benefits package.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Westbrook, ME.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $100000.00/yr.
10 days PTO 5 days sick time Employee Stock Plan
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Westbrook,ME.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Aug 3, 2026.
About Actalent


Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.


The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.


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Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.