Controls Engineer / Automation EngineerJob DescriptionThe Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer will support a large Smart Factory initiative within a manufacturing environment, focusing on advancing automation projects involving AGV systems, AS/RS technologies, PLC controls, and manufacturing systems integration. This role combines hands-on troubleshooting and controls support with project coordination, vendor management, and cross-functional collaboration to successfully launch and sustain a high-visibility automation program.Responsibilities
- Support the implementation of Smart Factory and Industry 4.0 automation initiatives within a manufacturing environment.
- Troubleshoot and program PLCs to ensure reliable operation of automated equipment and manufacturing systems.
- Interpret and work from electrical schematics to diagnose issues and support equipment integration and modifications.
- Contribute to the design, implementation, and optimization of AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) systems.
- Support the deployment, integration, and performance of AS/RS (Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems) within the facility.
- Assist with manufacturing systems integration, including WMS, MES, and industrial IoT solutions.
- Use AutoCAD to review, update, and maintain electrical and controls-related drawings and documentation.
- Provide hands-on controls support on the production floor, including startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automated equipment.
- Coordinate and execute automation projects, balancing technical tasks with project planning and progress tracking.
- Collaborate closely with engineering leadership, project stakeholders, vendors, and system integrators to align requirements and resolve issues.
- Manage vendor and third-party integrator activities, ensuring deliverables meet technical and operational expectations.
- Support large-scale automation launches, including preparation, testing, validation, and post-launch stabilization.
- Participate in cross-functional meetings to communicate project status, technical risks, and mitigation plans.
- Adapt work focus from a mix of project coordination and hands-on support to primarily hands-on responsibilities as launch activities increase.
- Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to enhance automation reliability, performance, and integration.
Essential Skills
- Demonstrated experience in controls engineering within a manufacturing environment.
- Strong PLC troubleshooting and programming skills, including experience with Omron PLCs.
- Hands-on experience with automated equipment and the ability to work from electrical schematics.
- Background in automation project implementation and ongoing support in a production setting.
- Manufacturing systems integration experience, including working with WMS and MES systems.
- Experience with AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) systems in an industrial or manufacturing context.
- Experience with AS/RS (Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems) implementation or support.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD for creating, reading, and updating controls and electrical drawings.
- Project management capabilities, including planning, coordination, and execution of automation initiatives.
- Vendor and third-party integrator management experience, including coordination and performance oversight.
- Industrial IoT experience supporting connected manufacturing and Smart Factory initiatives.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering teams, project stakeholders, vendors, and system integrators.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
- Experience with WMS and MES platforms, with Plex MES experience preferred.
- Direct involvement in Smart Factory or Industry 4.0 projects and technologies.
- Experience supporting large-scale automation launches from concept through commissioning and stabilization.
- Strong communication skills to convey technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic manufacturing environment, especially during launch phases.
Work EnvironmentThis position operates within a manufacturing environment that is actively implementing a Smart Factory automation initiative. The role involves a combination of office-based work and production floor activities, with an initial balance of approximately 50% hands-on support and 50% project coordination. As launch activities increase, the position will transition to roughly 75% hands-on support on the production floor, including direct interaction with automated equipment, AGV and AS/RS systems, and integrated manufacturing technologies. The Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer will collaborate extensively with engineering leadership, project stakeholders, vendors, and system integrators. Significant overtime is expected during the initial phase of the assignment to support critical launch milestones and ensure stable operation of new automation systems. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of West Jefferson, OH. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $48.07 - $52.88/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.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) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of West Jefferson, OH. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 25, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in West Jefferson,OH.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.
