Controls Systems Engineer

Job Description

This full-time Control Systems Engineer role involves traveling from project to project, spending 3 to 6 months at each location. The engineer commissions and validates automation systems, troubleshoots issues, and collaborates closely with internal engineering teams and clients to deliver advanced control solutions that improve efficiency, product quality, and profitability in process manufacturing environments.

• Execute automation commissioning and validation protocols for control systems at client sites.
• Troubleshoot and remediate commissioning and validation non-conformances to ensure systems meet required standards.
• Collaborate with internal engineers and client teams to design and deliver state-of-the-art control systems that enhance efficiency, product quality, and profitability.
• Define, configure, and implement programmable logic controller (PLC) programs and architectures.
• Perform testing, on-site commissioning, and qualification of control systems to verify performance and reliability.
• Support human-machine interface (HMI) setup, testing, and troubleshooting as part of overall control system deployment.
• Diagnose and resolve mechanical and electrical issues related to control systems in the field.
• Adapt to new industries, processes, and technologies while maintaining a strong focus on safety and quality.
• Participate in hands‑on training and contribute to knowledge sharing within the project team.
• Demonstrate flexibility in schedule and travel to support project timelines and client needs.

• Experience in control systems engineering, including commissioning and validation of automation systems.
• Proficiency with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), including defining and implementing PLC configurations.
• Hands‑on experience with human‑machine interfaces (HMIs) for control and monitoring of automated systems.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for mechanical, electrical, and control system issues.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment with internal engineers and clients.
• Willingness and ability to travel for extended periods, typically 3 to 6 months per project location.
• Flexible schedule and ability to work extended shifts as required by project demands.
• Adaptable, enthusiastic attitude with a strong desire to learn new technologies and industries.

• Engineering degree in mechanical, systems, automation, or electrical engineering, or equivalent hands‑on experience.
• Background in building automation or related control systems is beneficial.
• Interest in leadership opportunities and the ability to take on increased responsibility over time.
• Comfort working in diverse industrial environments and with different process manufacturing applications.
• Strong communication skills to interact with clients and multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Motivation to grow professionally through exposure to different industries and hands‑on training.

This is an on-site, field‑based role with extensive travel. You will work directly at client facilities, starting in a North Carolina office for training before transitioning to project sites such as Richmond, Virginia, and Chicago. The schedule typically consists of either six 10‑hour days or five 10‑hour days per week, and the role offers exposure to different industries, hands‑on training opportunities, and a culture that supports growth, travel, leadership development, and competitive per diem arrangements.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Ann Arbor, MI.

Pay range: $39.00 – $50.00 per hour.

• 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)

We are 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.

For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact actalentaccom