Controls Systems Engineer

This full-time Control Systems Engineer role involves traveling from project to project, typically spending 3 to 6 months at each location. You will commission and validate automation systems, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate closely with internal engineering teams and clients to deliver advanced control solutions that improve efficiency, product quality, and profitability in process manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• 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, where you will work directly at client facilities rather than in a traditional office setting. You will start in a North Carolina office for training before transitioning to project sites, with current projects including locations such as Richmond, Virginia and Chicago. The schedule typically consists of either six 10-hour days per week or five 10-hour days per week, depending on project requirements. You will work in industrial environments that require appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to safety procedures. The role offers significant exposure to different industries, hands-on training opportunities, and a culture that supports growth, travel, leadership development, and competitive per diem arrangements while working on advanced control and automation technologies.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Holly Springs, NC.

The pay range for this position is $39.00 - $50.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Holly Springs,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on May 31, 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 process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.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.

Salary : $39 - $50