Automation Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Automation Controls Engineer / Autonomous Material Flow Systems

Position Summary

Actalent is seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to support the development, deployment, and adoption of Autonomous Guided Vehicle (AGV) solutions across manufacturing facilities. This role will serve as a technical leader within the central automation organization, responsible for

developing standardized AGV integration architectures, validating system performance, and partnering with plant engineering teams to implement

autonomous material handling solutions that improve safety, efficiency, and operational performance. The ideal candidate combines strong controls engineering expertise with a deep understanding of manufacturing operations and material flow. Success in this role requires the ability to integrate AGV systems with existing plant automation infrastructure while demonstrating measurable business value to manufacturing stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

AGV Solution Development & Deployment

• Develop and standardize AGV integration solutions for deployment across manufacturing facilities.
• Design control and communication interfaces between AGVs and plant automation systems.
• Support AGV commissioning, startup, validation, and production launch activities.
• Evaluate material flow processes and identify opportunities for autonomous vehicle implementation.
• Analyze system performance and recommend improvements to maximize fleet utilization and operational efficiency.
• Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of vehicle, network, and controls-related issues.

Controls Engineering

• Develop and maintain PLC and HMI applications supporting AGV operations and associated infrastructure.
• Integrate AGV systems with manufacturing execution systems, conveyors, robotics, vision systems, traceability platforms, and plant controls.
• Validate sensors, I/O devices, safety systems, and communication networks.
• Design and implement interlock logic between AGVs and production equipment.
• Support Ethernet/IP and industrial network communication troubleshooting.

Manufacturing Systems Integration

• Ensure AGV solutions align with controls architecture and automation standards.
• Coordinate interfaces between AGV systems and production equipment including robotics, vision inspection systems, torque systems, and assembly operations.
• Support plant teams in integrating AGV solutions into existing manufacturing processes.
• Develop operational procedures, fault recovery strategies, and maintenance support methods.

Validation & Commissioning

• Lead Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) activities.
• Verify system functionality, safety compliance, and production readiness.
• Develop test plans and validation procedures for AGV deployments.
• Support production trials and launch activities at manufacturing locations.

Internal Customer Support

• Partner with plant manufacturing, controls, operations, and maintenance teams to evaluate AGV opportunities.
• Present technical solutions and business cases supporting AGV adoption.
• Demonstrate operational benefits including labor efficiency, safety improvements, and material flow optimization.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for autonomous material handling systems.

Required Qualifications

• Experience with PLC programming and industrial controls systems.
• Experience developing and supporting HMI applications.
• Strong understanding of industrial networking and fieldbus communications.
• Experience with startup, commissioning, FAT, and SAT activities.
• Knowledge of machine safety systems, safety devices, and risk mitigation practices.
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical, pneumatic, mechanical, and controls-related issues.
• Experience working within automotive manufacturing environments.
• Familiarity with controls standards including GCCS / GCCHS
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience integrating AGVs, AMRs, or automated material handling systems.
• Experience with Fanuc robotics and collaborative robot applications.
• Experience with Cognex, Keyence, or iRVision systems.
• Knowledge of manufacturing traceability and production data systems.
• Experience implement