Senior Controls Engineer

Job Title: Senior Controls EngineerJob DescriptionThe Senior Controls Engineer is responsible for the architecture, design, and implementation of advanced control systems supporting high-power electrical equipment and integrated energy systems. This role encompasses both hardware and software development, including control and power panel design, bill of materials (BOM) ownership, PLC/CODESYS programming, and work within Linux-based control environments. The role requires leadership and contribution in controls and automation, driving standardized, scalable solutions across product lines while ensuring alignment with the company's culturepromoting accountability, communication, and team-first execution.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop control systems for high-power applications, including system architecture, control strategies, and detailed design deliverables.
• Own and develop complete BOMs, I/O lists, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts to support production and field deployment.
• Ensure designs are manufacturable, serviceable, and aligned with company standards.
• Develop, program, and maintain control software across multiple platforms, including traditional PLC environments, CODESYS-based systems, and Linux-based control applications.
• Integrate control systems with inverters, drives, and other power electronics, ensuring proper operation, communication, and protection strategies.
• Configure and commission variable frequency drives and inverter systems, with strong preference for experience with Danfoss products or equivalent platforms.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless product development and execution.
• Actively participate in design reviews, providing technical input and identifying risks early in the design process.
• Support testing, validation, and commissioning activities, including prototype builds, factory acceptance testing (FAT), and field commissioning.
• Troubleshoot system issues across hardware and software domains, providing timely and effective resolution.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including control narratives, functional specifications, software documentation, and commissioning procedures.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of engineering standards, templates, and best practices within the organization.

Essential Skills

• PLC programming
• Automation
• Controls engineering
• Troubleshooting
• Electrical design
• CODESYS
• ST code
• Linux
• Modbus
• Design and development
• Embedded systems
• Controls Systems design and development
• Bachelors degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field
• 7+ years of experience in industrial controls, automation, or power systems engineering
• Experience with PLC platforms and CODESYS environments
• Strong experience with Linux-based systems, including application development, scripting, and system integration
• Experience designing and supporting high-power electrical systems, including integration with inverters or variable frequency drives
• Ability to develop and manage BOMs, electrical schematics, and control panel troubleshooting skills

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Danfoss drives and inverter systems
• Experience with industrial communications protocols (Modbus, CAN, Ethernet/IP, TCP/IP, etc.)
• Familiarity with power systems concepts including motor control, protection schemes, and energy systems
• Experience supporting commissioning in field environments (marine, industrial, oil & gas, or similar)
• Exposure to embedded systems or edge-device software architecture

Work EnvironmentThe role involves working with advanced control systems and requires strong collaboration with cross-functional teams. The work environment supports innovation and technical excellence, promoting a culture of accountability, communication, and team-first execution. The position may involve some travel for field commissioning and requires working with various technologies such as PLCs, CODESYS, Linux-based systems, and power electronics. The dress code is business casual, and the role may require occasional hands-on work in production and field environments. Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Birmingham, AL. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $160000.00/yr. 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.Spoc provides and excellent benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, 401(k), holiday, and vacation. Job Type & LocationThis is a Permanent position based out of Birmingham, AL. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 20, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Birmingham,AL.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.