Controls Hardware Designer

The Controls Hardware Designer develops, integrates, and tests control systems for advanced automation projects, with a strong focus on aerospace applications. This role programs PLCs and HMIs, configures CNC and drive systems, and supports system installation and commissioning at customer sites. The position directly impacts system performance, project success, and customer satisfaction, and offers exposure to the full project lifecycle from concept through buy-off.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test control systems software and related hardware for complex automation projects.
• Program PLCs (such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens) from scratch to meet project and customer requirements.
• Develop and configure HMI applications to provide intuitive and reliable operator interfaces.
• Program CNC systems and configure drive systems to ensure precise and reliable motion control.
• Support system installation and commissioning at customer facilities, including troubleshooting and optimization.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, design, manufacturing, and project management teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure control systems meet performance, safety, and reliability standards required in aerospace automation environments.
• Adjust and refine control logic during commissioning to address real-world conditions and customer feedback.
• Contribute to successful project delivery, acceptance, and buy-off by meeting technical and schedule commitments.
• Document control system designs, configurations, and changes to support long-term maintenance and upgrades.
• Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams and customers to clarify requirements and resolve issues.
• Adapt to tight timelines, travel requirements, and high customer expectations while maintaining precision and quality.

• At least 5 years of experience in controls engineering or a closely related field.
• Strong proficiency in PLC programming, including Allen-Bradley and Siemens platforms.
• Proven ability to program control systems from scratch rather than only modifying existing code.
• Hands-on experience with HMI development for industrial automation systems.
• Experience with CNC programming and configuration of servo and other drive systems.
• Knowledge of electrical power and distribution systems as they relate to automation equipment.
• Background in commissioning controls systems, including on-site startup, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, project-driven environment with tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams and customers.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to precision and safety in all aspects of work.

• Experience working in aerospace or defense manufacturing environments.
• Exposure to simulation tools or advanced automation platforms used in complex manufacturing systems.
• Familiarity with full project lifecycle management, from concept and design through installation and buy-off.
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams, including design, manufacturing, and project management.
• Demonstrated proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues before they impact project timelines.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
• Interest in technical growth, leadership, and innovation within advanced automation.
• Traits of top performers in this role include being proactive, detail-oriented, and highly collaborative.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to approximately 30% domestically to customer sites.

This role is primarily on-site and involves regular work in manufacturing and integration environments, with travel to customer facilities up to roughly 30% of the time. The position reports into engineering or integration leadership and supports cross-functional teams that include design, manufacturing, and project management. Work takes place in active manufacturing areas where safety glasses are mandatory and safety shoes are recommended. The environment is fast-paced and project-driven, combining periods of independent focused work with close collaboration across teams. The standard schedule is a day shift, with flexibility required for occasional off-shift or weekend work during critical phases such as installation and commissioning. The organization emphasizes safety, precision, and collaboration, and offers strong benefits including retirement plan matching, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, and paid time off. Team members gain exposure to cutting-edge aerospace automation technology and large-scale tooling projects, with clear opportunities for career growth, technical development, and innovation.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Macomb, MI.

The pay range for this position is $80000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

BENEFITS Medical Insurance Dental Insurance Vision Insurance Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance Life Insurance AD&D Insurance PTO 401k Match

This is a fully onsite position in Macomb,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on May 8, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000 extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.

Salary : $80,000 - $100,000