Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Controls Engineer II Job Description

A Controls Engineer II is responsible for developing, troubleshooting, and supporting PLC, HMI, and robotic control systems used in automated machinery. This role involves assisting with machine builds, leading system start-ups, and providing both on-site and remote technical support. The engineer uses experience and sound judgment to solve problems, support field service teams, and ensure complex test systems operate safely and efficiently.

Responsibilities

• Write and debug PLC and HMI programs with minimal assistance.
• Collaborate with assembly and engineering teams to resolve control-system issues.
• Train field service personnel on machine operation, start-up procedures, and robotics.
• Communicate effectively with project managers, customers, and internal teams while handling multiple projects.
• Support both new and existing equipment throughout installation and operation.
• Lead machine start-ups and coordinate installation activities.
• Mentor and train other engineers in controls and electrical disciplines.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering (or equivalent experience in control systems).
• 3+ years of industry experience preferred.
• Experience with variable-frequency drives and strong proficiency in Allen-Bradley PLCs.
• Knowledge of industrial networking, pneumatics, and hydraulics.
• Ability to program Fanuc robots or similar platforms (Siemens, Mitsubishi, GE, or Omron).
• Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally (25%).
• Ability to read and update electrical schematics (ACADE or EPLAN).
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to learn new equipment quickly.
• Effective communication and professionalism with both internal teams and customers.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Electrical Engineering Degree OR Mechanical/Computer Science Degree with strong controls experience OR 3-4 years of relevant experience.
• Proficient in Fanuc robot programming or another controls system (Siemens, Mitsubishi, GE, or Omron).
• Ability to read electrical prints.

Work Environment

The typical working hours range from 9 am to 3:30 pm, with flexibility to start early or stay late. Expect to travel nationally about 20-25% of the time, with occasional trips to Canada. When not traveling, work weeks are typically 40-45 hours, increasing to 45-50 hours when traveling. Project durations are generally around a week when traveling. All travel expenses, including lodging, flights, and gas, are reimbursed. This role offers strong growth opportunities, supports learning through internal/external training, and tuition reimbursement. The environment is fast-paced and hands-on, allowing you to work with advanced technology.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $43.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Grand Rapids,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 10, 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 withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email View email address on us.fitly.work for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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 applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.