Controls Project Engineer

Job Title: Controls Project EngineerJob Description

The Controls Project Engineer leads controls engineering efforts for complex automation projects from initial concept through full production. This role designs and implements PLC and HMI software, supports integrated hardware and software systems, and drives standardization and innovation in automation technologies. The engineer works closely with internal teams, vendors, customers, and suppliers to deliver reliable, high-performance aerospace automation solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls engineering activities for automation projects from concept through production, ensuring systems meet performance, safety, and quality requirements.

• Design, write, test, implement, and document PLC and HMI software for new and existing automation systems.

• Manage the installation, commissioning, and production support of automation systems, including troubleshooting and optimization during start-up and ramp-up.

• Provide technical support for integrated hardware and software systems, resolving issues related to controls, electrical power, and distribution.

• Design and review controls hardware, including PLC-based control panels, servo drives, VFDs, and associated electrical power and distribution systems.

• Develop and maintain company standards for project execution, controls design, and software development to improve consistency and efficiency.

• Research, evaluate, and recommend new technologies in controls, automation, and aerospace manufacturing to enhance system performance and capabilities.

• Coordinate with vendors for hardware and software components, ensuring proper integration and compliance with project requirements and standards.

• Communicate effectively with customers and suppliers to understand technical requirements, provide updates, and address issues throughout the project lifecycle.

• Apply knowledge of NFPA, NEC, UL 508, IEC, and CE standards to ensure systems meet applicable codes and regulatory requirements.

• Support project management activities by contributing to planning, scheduling, and execution across the project lifecycle.

• Collaborate closely with integration and installation teams on the manufacturing floor to ensure smooth implementation and handover to production.

• Participate in technical reviews and screenings with a focus on PLC programming depth, hardware design quality, adaptability, and communication.

• Travel as needed to customer sites or vendor facilities to support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting activities.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.

• 5+ years of experience working in a manufacturing engineering environment.

• Proven experience in controls hardware design and PLC programming, including platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, GE Fanuc, and Mitsubishi.

• Demonstrated ability to design, write, test, implement, and document PLC and HMI software for industrial automation systems.

• Strong knowledge of electrical power and distribution systems in an industrial or manufacturing setting.

• Experience programming servo controllers and variable frequency drives (VFDs).

• Familiarity with NFPA, NEC, UL 508, IEC, and CE standards and their application to industrial control systems.

• Proficiency with MS Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Project.

• Knowledge of the project management lifecycle and how controls engineering activities fit within it.

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.

• Ability to adapt to changing project requirements and technologies while maintaining high technical standards.

• Ability to meet Export Control compliance requirements as a U.S. Person.

• Willingness and ability to travel as needed to support projects.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with CNC systems, particularly Siemens 840 or Fanuc 30iB.

• Robot programming experience with platforms such as Fanuc, KUKA, or ABB.

• Proficiency in C# programming for custom tools, interfaces, or data integration.

• Experience working with aerospace automation systems or large-scale automation projects.

• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with integration and installation teams to deliver turnkey solutions.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in documentation, configuration management, and standards development.

• Interest in continuous learning, career development, and training in advanced automation technologies.

Work Environment

This role is based on-site in a combined office and manufacturing floor environment. The Controls Project Engineer spends time both at a desk performing design and programming work and on the shop floor supporting integration, installation, and commissioning of automation systems. The physical environment includes exposure to moving mechanical parts, vibration, and moderate noise levels. Appropriate personal protective equipment is required, including mandatory safety eyewear and recommended safety shoes when working on the manufacturing floor. The position follows standard business hours, with occasional weekend work to meet critical project deadlines and support commissioning activities. The engineer works within a collaborative team environment, closely partnering with integration, installation, and other engineering teams. The organization offers exposure to cutting-edge aerospace automation projects, advanced technologies, and large-scale systems, along with competitive benefits such as medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, paid time off, and a 401(k) match. Employees have access to ongoing career development and training opportunities, supporting long-term growth in the aerospace automation field.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Utica, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $150000.00/yr.

BENEFITS Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance Life Insurance AD&D Insurance PTO 401k Match

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Utica,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 9, 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.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on jobs.institutedata.com for other accommodation options.

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.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall 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 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.