Controls Engineer

Job Title:

Controls Engineer IIJob Description

This engineer will be responsible for developing, troubleshooting, and supporting PLC, HMI, and robotic control systems used in automated machinery.

The role involves assisting with machine builds, leading system start-ups, and providing both on-site and remote technical support. This engineer uses experience and sound judgment to solve problems, support field service teams, and ensure complex test systems operate safely and efficiently.

Hours:

9am to 3:30pm with flexibility to start early or stay later

Travel: 20-25% travel nationally and occasionally to Canada

+ Project durations are usually around a week when traveling. All travel expenses, including lodging, flights, and gas reimbursement, are covered.

Responsibilities

+ Write and debug PLC and HMI programs with minimal assistance.

+ Collaborate with assembly and engineering teams to resolve control-system issues.

+ Train field service personnel on machine operation, start-up procedures, and robotics.

+ Communicate effectively with project managers, customers, and internal teams while handling multiple projects.

+ Support both new and existing equipment throughout installation and operation.

+ Lead machine start-ups and coordinate installation activities.

+ Mentor and train other engineers in controls and electrical disciplines.

Essential Skills

+ Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or equivalent experience in control systems.

+ 3+ years of industry experience preferred.

+

Experience with variable-frequency drives and strong proficiency in Allen-Bradley PLCs.

+ Knowledge of industrial networking, pneumatics, and hydraulics.

+ Ability to program Fanuc robots or similar platforms (Siemens, Mitsubishi, GE, or Omron).

+ Willingness to travel domestically and occasionally internationally (25-40%).

+ Ability to read and update electrical schematics (ACADE or EPLAN).

+ Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to learn new equipment quickly.

+ Effective communication and professionalism with both internal teams and customers.

+ Proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Electrical Engineering Degree OR Mechanical/Computer Science Degree with strong controls experience.

+ PLC Programming from scratch.

+ Proficient in Fanuc robot programming or another controls system (Siemens, Mitsubishi, GE, or Omron).

+ Ability to read electrical prints.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $38.00 - $45.00/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 Grand Rapids,MI.

Final date to receive applications

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 18, 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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccom (%20actalentaccom)  for other accommodation options.