Controls Systems Engineer

Actalent; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 54,000 - 69,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Per diem

Benefits package

Job summary

Actalent is seeking a Controls Systems Engineer for on-site roles at client facilities in Tempe, AZ. This full-time, travel-heavy position spans project-based assignments with 36 months per location, focusing on automation commissioning, validation, and PLC development to improve manufacturing efficiency.

The role requires hands-on PLC/HMI work, collaboration with client teams, and the ability to adapt to multiple industries.

Qualifications

• Hands-on PLC programming in industrial or process environments.
• Strong background in automation, commissioning, validation, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to implement PLC configurations per project specs.
• Experience with building automation and control platform integrations.
• Proficient in HMI configuration, testing and troubleshooting.
• Troubleshooting PLC/HMI issues during commissioning and operation.
• Willingness to travel and work on multi-project assignments.
• On-site collaboration with engineers and clients.

Responsibilities

• Execute automation commissioning and validation protocols for control systems at client sites.
• Troubleshoot, analyze, and remediate non-conformances in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with internal teams and clients to deliver advanced control systems.
• Define and implement PLC architectures to meet requirements.
• Program, test, and optimize PLC logic for reliable operation.
• Perform on-site testing, commissioning, and qualification to meet standards.
• Support building automation and related system integration as needed.
• Diagnose and resolve PLC/HMI issues during commissioning and operation.
• Document activities, results, and remediation steps for project closeout.
• Travel to various project locations and adapt to different industries.

Skills

PLC programming

Automation & control

Troubleshooting

HMI configuration

Team collaboration

Travel readiness

Education

Engineering degree in mechanical, systems, automation, or electrical engineering

Tools

PLC hardware

HMI systems

Building automation integration

Job description

Job Title: Controls Systems EngineerJob Description

This full-time Controls Systems Engineer role is a traveling, project-to-project position where you typically spend 36 months at each client location. You execute automation commissioning and validation protocols, troubleshoot and resolve non-conformances, and collaborate closely with internal engineers and client teams to deliver state-of-the-art control systems that enhance efficiency, product quality, and profitability in process manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Execute automation commissioning and validation protocols for control systems at client sites.

• Troubleshoot, analyze, and remediate commissioning and validation non-conformances in a timely and thorough manner.

• Collaborate with internal engineering teams and clients to design and deliver advanced control systems that improve manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and overall profitability.

• Define, configure, and implement programmable logic controller (PLC) architectures to meet project and client requirements.

• Program, test, and optimize PLC logic to ensure reliable and safe system operation.

• Perform on-site testing, commissioning, and qualification of control systems, ensuring they meet functional and regulatory standards.

• Support building automation and related control system integration as needed for each project.

• Diagnose and resolve issues with PLCs, HMIs, and related automation hardware and software during commissioning and operation.

• Document commissioning activities, validation results, and remediation steps to support project closeout and future reference.

• Travel to various project locations and adapt to different industries, processes, and site requirements.

• Work effectively in a team environment, communicating clearly with colleagues and clients to align on project goals and deliverables.

Essential Skills

• Hands-on experience with PLC programming and configuration in industrial or process manufacturing environments.

• Strong background in automation and control systems, including commissioning, validation, and troubleshooting.

• Ability to define and implement PLC configurations that align with project specifications and client needs.

• Experience with building automation systems and their integration with control platforms.

• Proficiency in HMI-related tasks such as configuration, basic programming, and troubleshooting.

• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills for control systems, PLCs, and automation equipment during commissioning and operation.

• Capability to work effectively on-site in a team environment with engineers and client stakeholders.

• Flexibility to travel and work on project-to-project assignments for periods of approximately 36 months per location.

• Adaptability and enthusiasm for learning new processes, technologies, and industry environments.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Engineering degree in mechanical, systems, automation, or electrical engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience in control systems and automation.

• Comfort working with PPE gear and following site safety procedures.

• Ability to manage a flexible schedule and adjust to varying project demands and work hours.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with diverse teams and client contacts.

• Motivation to grow professionally through exposure to different industries, technologies, and project types.

Work Environment

This role is fully on-site at client facilities with regular travel between projects. You work in industrial and process manufacturing environments where PPE gear is required and adherence to safety protocols is essential. Typical schedules are either 6 days per week at 10 hours per day (6x10s) or 5 days per week at 10 hours per day (5x10s), depending on project needs. The position offers a dynamic work setting with exposure to various industries, technologies, and control systems, along with travel-based project work and eligibility for per diem while on assignment.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $39.00 - $50.00/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 & Location

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

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 30, 2026.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Tempe,AZ.

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 [e-mail] 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 application 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.