Controls Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer

Job Description

As a Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for programming and debugging structured text and ladder logic code on multiple PLC controller platforms, including Automation Studio, Beckhoff TwinCAT, and Siemens TIA Portal. You will develop organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable code to control complex, multi-station machinery for processes such as material pick and place, dispensing, fastening, welding, testing, and material transport. Additionally, you will use Python scripting and SQL to interface equipment with the manufacturing execution system and collect data into production databases. You will create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces using MappView/TwinCAT HMI and SCADA dashboards screens using Ignition, set up and tune servo drives and VFDs, and design and implement control reliable safety systems for safeguarding robots and other manufacturing equipment.

Responsibilities

• Program and debug structured text and ladder logic code on multiple PLC controller platforms.

• Develop organized and reusable code for controlling complex machinery.

• Create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces and SCADA dashboards.

• Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for optimal performance.

• Design and implement safety systems for safeguarding manufacturing equipment.

• Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, pneumatic, and fluid plumbing.

• Participate in initial equipment conceptual development.

• Manage suppliers during specification, design, buyoff, and installation of automated manufacturing equipment.

Essential Skills

• PLC programming with the ability to develop code.

• Experience in HMI programming.

• OEM or System integration

• 4+ years of experience in automation.

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls and Computer Control Systems, Mechatronic Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with Siemens programming.

• Knowledge of Fanuc robotics and vision systems like Halcon.

• Familiarity with industrial networking protocols: Profinet, Ethernet I/P, EtherCAT.

• Experience in design using AUTOCAD Electrical.

• Experience with controls hardware including sensors, remote IO, servos, VFDs, machine vision, and barcode readers.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Elgin, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $100000.00 - $130000.00/yr.

Full Time benefits, 401k, profit sharing, and yearly bonus

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Elgin,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 26, 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 [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.