Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Controls Engineer
Job Description

This role focuses on designing, developing, and implementing advanced control systems and robotic integrated systems for a manufacturing environment. The Controls Engineer creates robust control algorithms, designs and configures control architectures, and ensures that all systems operate reliably, safely, and in line with functional and user requirements. The position requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality automation solutions on time and within budget.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop control systems and strategies that meet project requirements, including the creation of control algorithms tailored to specific applications.
• Create, program, and configure control system architectures for robotic integrated systems to ensure seamless automation and reliable performance.
• Develop and implement control algorithms that align with system dynamics and control theory principles to achieve desired system behavior.
• Collaborate with project managers and other engineers to ensure projects are completed within defined timelines, budgets, and performance targets.
• Perform system diagnostics and troubleshooting to identify and resolve issues with control systems and components in real time.
• Analyze system data to evaluate performance, identify trends, and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency, reliability, and safety.
• Design and develop detailed specifications and documentation for control system designs, including control manuals, schematics, and configuration records.
• Ensure all control systems comply with relevant safety regulations, industry standards, and internal quality guidelines.
• Program and configure PLC-based systems, including ladder logic and function block diagrams, to control automated equipment and processes.
• Integrate, configure, and support human-machine interfaces (HMIs) and SCADA systems to provide intuitive operator control and monitoring.
• Work with ABB and Fanuc robotic systems, including programming, integration, testing, and optimization for automated applications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to sensors, PLCs, HMIs, and other control components to minimize downtime and maintain system performance.
• Conduct system integration, testing, and debugging to verify that control systems meet functional requirements and user needs.
• Prepare and maintain accurate documentation of requirements, specifications, test procedures, and system changes throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide training and technical support to maintenance staff and system users to ensure proper operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control systems.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, to achieve overall system performance and project goals.

• Proven work experience as a Controls Engineer or in a similar control systems or automation engineering role.
• Strong knowledge of control theory, system dynamics, and control systems design and implementation.
• Proficiency in programming and configuring PLC-based systems, including ladder logic and function block diagrams.
• Familiarity with human-machine interfaces (HMIs) and SCADA systems used for monitoring and controlling industrial processes.
• Hands-on experience with ABB and Fanuc robot programming and integration within automated systems.
• Experience in automation, controls engineering, PLC programming, and robotics integration.
• Ability to design, develop, and implement control systems and robotic integrated systems from concept through commissioning.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for diagnosing and resolving issues with sensors, PLCs, HMIs, and other control components.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities to evaluate system performance and optimize control strategies.
• Ability to document requirements, specifications, and technical details clearly and accurately.
• BSc degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a relevant engineering field.

• Proficiency with programming languages such as C++ and Python for control and automation applications.
• Knowledge of system dynamics and advanced control algorithms for complex automation and robotic systems.
• Experience with CAD software to support control system design, panel layouts, and integration with mechanical and electrical designs.
• Ability to perform data analysis to evaluate system performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Experience developing detailed control manuals, specifications, and technical documentation for end users and maintenance teams.
• Strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with project managers, engineers, and operations personnel.
• Experience working with interdisciplinary teams to meet system performance, safety, and quality objectives.

The role is based in a family-oriented manufacturing environment that emphasizes collaboration, safety, and long-term relationships. You will work closely with cross-functional teams on the production floor and in engineering spaces, engaging directly with automated equipment, PLC panels, robotic cells, and related control hardware. The setting combines office-based design and documentation work with hands-on commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of control systems on the shop floor. The environment supports a practical, team-focused culture where engineers interact regularly with operations, maintenance, and other technical staff to deliver reliable automation solutions.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Florence, AL.

The pay range for this position is $40.86 - $57.69/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Florence,AL.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 23, 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 ziprecruiter.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.