Senior Controls Automation Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer

Job Description

The Controls Engineer is responsible for the planning, design, programming, and implementation of PLC, HMI, and PC-based control systems for industrial automation projects. This role covers the full lifecycle of systems integration, including system design, PLC and PC programming (.NET), HMI development, robot programming, machine vision, industrial communication network implementation, in-house testing, and on-site commissioning. The Experienced Controls Engineer understands each project’s scope, goals, and technical requirements, and consistently balances client expectations, budget, schedule, and technical execution to achieve successful project outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, program, and implement PLC, HMI, and PC-based control systems for industrial automation projects.
• Interpret customer-supplied control descriptions, conduct interviews with clients and owners, and analyze system mechanical requirements to create functional software designs.
• Design and program control systems for automated equipment, including PLCs, servo motion, robotics, machine vision, and related technologies.
• Develop highly structured, well-documented, and reliable PLC and PC programs that align with established company standards.
• Design intuitive, easy-to-navigate, and visually appealing HMI interfaces that support efficient operator interaction.
• Collaborate with other project team members to share programming responsibilities and ensure cohesive system performance.
• Develop software that supports thorough, systematic in-house testing prior to on-site commissioning.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget while maintaining high technical standards.
• Create and maintain comprehensive project documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Engage in a dynamic role where daily tasks vary, supporting a wide range of automation and controls challenges.

Essential Skills

• Highly competent to expert-level PLC programming skills, including the ability to develop PLC programs from front to end.
• Strong PC programming skills, including experience with .NET for control system applications.
• Proficiency in HMI programming and design, including data logging and database-connected HMI interfaces.
• Experience with major PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley (Rockwell) and Siemens.
• Hands-on experience with industrial robots, including 6-axis robots and platforms such as Fanuc, UR, and ABB.
• Proficiency in AC and servo motion control programming for automated equipment.
• Experience with machine vision systems and applications (4 years).
• Experience with bar-code and RFID applications in industrial environments.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication networks and their implementation in control systems.
• Demonstrated mechanical and electrical aptitude relevant to controls engineering and automated equipment.
• At least 5 years of experience in planning, design, programming, and implementation of PLC/HMI and/or PC-based control systems.
• At least 5 years of experience with data logging and programming HMI interfaces and databases.
• At least 5 years of excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• At least 5 years of experience managing multiple tasks and handling diverse assignments concurrently.
• At least 5 years of project management and leadership experience in an automation or controls engineering context.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with SCADA systems and related software tools.
• Experience with software design practices that support thorough in-house testing and reliable on-site commissioning.
• Strong documentation skills, including the ability to create and maintain comprehensive project records.
• Ability to work closely with vendors for component selection, manufacturing coordination, and system assembly.

Work Environment

This role operates primarily in a manufacturing environment, supporting industrial automation and systems integration projects.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Tempe, AZ.

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $60.00/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 Tempe,AZ.

This position is anticipated to close on May 12, 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 : $50 - $60