Systems Engineer – Automation

Advancing Automation. Strengthening Reliability. Enabling Operational Excellence.

We are seeking an Automation Engineer to lead critical engineering initiatives that elevate the performance, reliability, and efficiency of our production systems. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in automation and controls, a disciplined approach to project execution, and the ability to collaborate effectively across engineering, operations, and leadership teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing, automation, continuous improvement, and capital projects from concept through full implementation
• Define project scope, develop cost estimates, manage budgets, and create Activity Control Timelines (ACTs)
• Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC‑controlled systems and FANUC robotic systems
• Improve long‑term reliability of PLCs, robots, HMIs, and control networks
• Analyze manufacturing and quality data using SQL databases, Microsoft automation tools, and Power BI
• Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for scrap, rework, downtime, throughput, and automation reliability issues
• Support new product introductions, including layouts, capacity analysis, PFMEA participation, and risk mitigation
• Manage daily project execution and communicate progress to stakeholders and leadership
• Provide technical mentoring for engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel
• Develop and maintain training materials, standard work, and documentation
• Prepare and present project status reports, business cases, and financial justifications
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and ISO standards
• Perform additional engineering duties as assigned

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting
• Experience with FANUC robotic systems and Allen‑Bradley PLCs
• Strong project management capability with a record of successful execution
• Working knowledge of SQL databases and manufacturing data systems
• Experience with Microsoft automation tools
• Ability to work independently with strong ownership and accountability

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience
• Experience in controls programming and project management
• AutoCAD experience preferred

Why Join Us

This role offers the opportunity to influence manufacturing strategy, lead high‑impact automation initiatives, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement. You will work in a collaborative environment that values technical excellence, professional growth, and operational performance.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of East End, AR.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $57.69/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 East End,AR.

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 30, 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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

Salary : $45 - $58