Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

The Controls Engineer designs, implements, and supports control systems for highly automated manufacturing equipment. This role initiates control system design from written sequences of operation, develops complex piping and wiring diagrams, and provides technical support across a variety of control systems projects. The Controls Engineer plays a key role in new equipment launches, system optimization, and integration of PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and CNC-controlled equipment.

Responsibilities Include

• Support launch activities related to the installation and commissioning of new automated equipment.
• Troubleshoot, modify, and program PLC and HMI systems that support highly automated manufacturing equipment.
• Lead and support automation and optimization projects aimed at increasing equipment throughput, reliability, and capability.
• Engineer and design electrical wiring diagrams and control panels for new and existing equipment.
• Work closely with Project Engineers to execute the controls scope for new installations and equipment upgrades.
• Make programming changes during approved downtime windows, including weekends when required to support production needs.
• Assist with retooling efforts and incremental automation additions throughout the facility to improve processes and performance.
• Interface with robotics, vision systems, and CNC-controlled equipment to ensure proper integration and functionality.
• Travel to local equipment supplier sites as required to support equipment installation, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Work independently in plant environments while effectively taking direction and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong PLC programming experience, including ladder logic, with a focus on automation in manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLC and HMI programming environments.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and programming Rockwell PLC/HMI systems.
• Experience working with networks or upper-level control systems in an industrial setting.
• Exposure to robotics, including Fanuc robot integration or light programming.
• Experience interfacing with CNC machines and related control systems.
• Ability to read, design, and develop electrical wiring diagrams and control panel layouts.
• Ability to work independently, follow direction, and deploy effectively in plant and production environments.
• Equivalent experience in lieu of degree, such as 5+ years as a Controls Engineer in a manufacturing environment.

Nice to Have

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering preferred.
• Siemens PLC and HMI experience is a strong plus.
• Machine vision integration or programming experience is highly desirable.
• Automotive manufacturing experience strongly preferred.
• Experience with upper-level systems and industrial networks.
• Interest in expanding career horizons, learning new technologies, and contributing to future automation solutions.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Defiance, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $48.00/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 Defiance, OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 13, 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.

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 click.appcast.io 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.