Electrical Controls Engineer

The Electrical Controls Engineer designs, programs, and supports PLC-based automation and control systems for industrial and manufacturing environments. This role serves as the technical lead on assigned projects, ensuring successful execution from concept through commissioning while delivering high-quality solutions and strong customer support. The position combines hands-on engineering, field commissioning, and cross-functional collaboration to implement reliable and efficient control systems.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the technical lead on assigned automation projects, guiding the design, implementation, and commissioning of control systems.
• Ensure successful project execution with a focus on on-time delivery, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Design PLC-based control systems and related electrical infrastructure to meet project and customer requirements.
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and associated automation hardware and software.
• Develop and review control system architectures, electrical schematics, and panel layouts for new and existing systems.
• Review system and equipment specifications to develop optimal control strategies and programming approaches.
• Provide ongoing technical support to customers and internal teams, including remote and onsite troubleshooting.
• Travel to customer sites to perform system commissioning, startup, testing, and field troubleshooting as needed.
• Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to source components, review technical specifications, and support project execution.
• Contribute technical insight to business development efforts, including customer meetings and solution discussions.
• Apply strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including applied math, to diagnose issues and optimize system performance.
• Document control logic, system configurations, and design decisions to support maintenance and future upgrades.
• Manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet project deadlines while balancing multiple assignments.
• Work both independently and as part of a team to deliver reliable, safe, and maintainable automation solutions.
• Follow safety practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements when working in industrial environments.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (required).
• At least 2 years of experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• At least 3 years of experience in automation system design and controls engineering.
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming and HMI programming.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation platforms such as RSLogix 500, Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View, or Connected Components Workbench (CCW).
• Strong knowledge of automation, PLC programming, and PLC troubleshooting.
• Experience with control system design and electrical design for industrial automation.
• Ability to troubleshoot and support automation systems and electrical controls in the field.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including applied math proficiency.
• Effective verbal communication and collaboration skills for working with customers, vendors, and internal teams.
• High attention to detail with a strong focus on quality and accuracy.
• Self-motivated, dependable, and able to work both independently and within a team.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
• Willingness and ability to travel as needed to support project work.
• Ability to work safely in industrial environments and follow PPE requirements.

• Experience with Rockwell Automation tools and ecosystems, with openness to learning and working with other PLC and HMI platforms.
• Experience with HMI development and HMI troubleshooting in industrial applications.
• Familiarity with industrial networking fundamentals such as Ethernet/IP or similar protocols.
• Exposure to VBA, SQL, or data integration tools for reporting and data connectivity (nice to have).
• Knowledge of power distribution systems (preferred but not required).
• Experience using AutoCAD or similar tools for control system and electrical design.
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical for creating and modifying electrical schematics (preferred).
• Understanding of hydraulics and pneumatics as they relate to automated equipment and control systems.
• Ability to interpret and create electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related engineering discipline is beneficial when combined with strong controls experience.
• Interest in ongoing learning and willingness to train on new programs and platforms beyond existing experience.
• Strong customer-service mindset and comfort engaging with customers in technical discussions.

This is a full-time, onsite role based in an industrial and manufacturing-focused environment. Work is primarily performed in an office and shop setting with regular time spent on the plant floor and at customer facilities during commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities. Travel averages approximately 3–5 weeks per year in total, though specific durations may vary by project and client needs. The role requires working safely in industrial environments and adhering to personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements when on the shop floor or at customer sites. You will work with modern automation technologies, including PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, and electrical control systems, and use engineering tools such as AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical. The position offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a 401(k) plan with matching, dental insurance, vision insurance, health-related savings or flexible spending options, life insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for education-related support. The work culture values technical excellence, reliability, collaboration, and continuous learning, while providing the support and training needed to grow your expertise across multiple automation platforms.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Park City, KS.

The pay range for this position is $65000.00 - $140000.00/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 Park City,KS.

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 13, 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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 : $65,000 - $140,000