Automation Engineer

Job Title: Automation Engineer
Job Description
The Automation Engineer will take ownership of industrial automation projects from initial design through commissioning, working both independently and as part of a project team. This role focuses on programming, configuring, and testing PLC, HMI, and drive systems for heavy industrial applications while collaborating closely with project managers, design engineers, and end customers. The position offers exposure to multiple concurrent projects, long-term growth opportunities, and the chance to work in a modern, well-equipped facility.
Responsibilities

• Fulfill project assignments individually and as part of a project team, often contributing to multiple projects at the same time.
• Provide detailed engineering input and collaborate with internal drafting resources to develop accurate and complete technical drawings.
• Develop technical documentation and specifications that clearly define system requirements and functionality.
• Write PLC application software, including logic development, configuration, and optimization for industrial automation systems.
• Develop and program HMI applications to provide intuitive and reliable operator interfaces.
• Configure AC and DC drive equipment, including parameter setup, tuning, and integration with control systems.
• Create system test plans, develop simulation code, and perform thorough system testing to validate performance and reliability.
• Coordinate with project management, technical leads, and end customers to plan, execute, and commission automation systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and commission control systems during the first 80% of the project lifecycle, ensuring technical issues are resolved promptly.
• Work closely with project managers and design engineers during the early phases of projects to align technical solutions with project goals.
• Prepare clear and effective technical documentation and communications for internal stakeholders and customers.
• Lead or support Factory Acceptance Tests with customers at the facility, including running tests, simulations, and demonstrating system operation.
• Train customers on how to operate machinery and control systems during acceptance testing and commissioning.
• Support the disassembly and shipment of equipment after successful factory testing, ensuring systems are properly documented and prepared for installation.
• Participate in on-site commissioning and startup at customer locations, including troubleshooting, fine-tuning, and validating system performance.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of automation products, software, and related technologies through ongoing training and self-development.
• Use Microsoft Office tools, especially Word, Excel, and Visio, to document designs, test results, and project progress.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience in heavy industrial automation environments.
• Hands-on ability to program PLCs, preferably with Rockwell/Allen-Bradley platforms, and openness to working with Siemens PLCs.
• Experience with Siemens PLCs and related automation systems.
• Strong understanding of AC and DC motor control and drive configuration.
• Background in electrical and automation systems, including control panel and system-level integration.
• Demonstrated experience in controls engineering, including programming, troubleshooting, and commissioning control systems.
• Experience managing the technical aspects of projects as a project or controls engineer, including working on 2-3 projects simultaneously.
• Strong technical writing skills to clearly communicate complex technical information to internal teams and customers.
• Ability to lead and execute Factory Acceptance Tests, including simulations, demonstrations, and operator training.
• Willingness and ability to travel approximately 25-50% of the time to customer sites for commissioning and startup.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for customer-facing and internal collaboration.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products, particularly Word, Excel, and Visio.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Engineering degree or equivalent experience in industrial automation.
• Aptitude for programming and configuring PLCs such as Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and GE.
• Experience configuring and working with drives from vendors such as Siemens, ABB, and Rockwell/Allen-Bradley.
• Familiarity with HMI development packages and interface design.
• Experience in metals processing or similar heavy industrial sectors is strongly preferred.
• Strong desire to participate in ongoing training to maintain and expand technical competency in automation products, software, and complementary technologies.
• Ability to work effectively with project managers, design engineers, and end users throughout the project lifecycle.
• Organizational skills to handle multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Work Environment
This position combines office-based engineering work with substantial time at customer sites. Travel will be approximately 25-50% of the time, with all travel expenses fully covered. When not traveling, the Automation Engineer works on-site at a brand-new, recently built facility that includes a dedicated office space and modern amenities such as a gym, locker room, and fully functional kitchen. The role involves working in a professional office environment as well as in industrial plant settings during commissioning and startup, requiring comfort around heavy equipment, automation systems, and active production areas.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Willoughby, OH.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $48.08 - $62.50/hr.
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 Willoughby,OH.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.


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



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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.