Automation Specialist

Actalent is seeking an Automation Specialist to support the design, development, testing, and documentation of continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS), with a focus on PLC-based control systems and their integration at customer sites.

About the role

The Automation Specialist will design, configure, and support PLC-based control systems, perform quality testing of Allen-Bradley PLC systems, and handle on-site commissioning and training. This position requires up to 25% travel to industrial locations.

Responsibilities

• Design, configure, and support PLC-based control systems for continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS).
• Maintain and improve existing PLC ladder logic programs for Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix monitoring systems using Studio 5000 Logix Designer.
• Maintain and enhance Allen-Bradley Human-Machine Interface (HMI) applications to provide intuitive and reliable end-user interfaces with PLCs.
• Configure and support communications gateway devices to enable command and control between field devices and PLCs.
• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) of completed products and systems prior to shipment to customer sites, ensuring quality and functionality.
• Assist with on-site installation, startup, and commissioning activities at industrial locations, including integration of monitoring systems, instruments, and controls.
• Contribute to continuous improvements in the design and operation of monitoring systems, instruments, controls, metering, and electrical equipment installed at customer facilities.
• Provide communications and control system support and troubleshooting for internal teams and external customers, both remotely and on-site.
• Perform all work in accordance with logic diagrams, electrical and mechanical drawings, sketches, and other written instructions to ensure accurate implementation.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional team members to achieve project timelines, quality standards, and overall team goals.
• Communicate technical concepts clearly and professionally with vendors, internal staff, and end users using both written and verbal communication.

Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in PLC programming using Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer software for ControlLogix and CompactLogix processors.
• Proven experience with Allen-Bradley CompactLogix and ControlLogix PLC platforms, including ladder logic development and troubleshooting.
• In-depth knowledge of hardware-based HMI development, including configuration, deployment, and maintenance of HMI interfaces.
• Strong understanding of digital and analog process signal measurement and control as they relate to programmable logic controllers.
• Experience working with industrial communications protocols such as MODBUS and related communication standards.
• Working knowledge of wiring techniques for analog and digital PLC communication modules and associated field devices.
• Ability to interpret and work from logic diagrams, electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain technical concepts to vendors, internal stakeholders, and end users.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment to achieve shared project and company objectives.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Undergraduate university degree or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience specifically with the Allen-Bradley systems and Studio 5000, as required for this role.

Skills

• Experience in automation environments involving PLCs, HMIs, and industrial control systems.
• Familiarity with continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) or similar process monitoring systems.
• Exposure to configuring and supporting communication gateway devices in industrial automation settings.
• Experience participating in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and site acceptance or commissioning activities.
• Experience in electrical or instrumentation disciplines supporting control system integration.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex control and communication issues in the field under time-sensitive conditions.
• Comfort working across multiple projects and priorities while maintaining attention to detail and quality.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with a focus on continuous improvement of system design and performance.

Work Environment

The Automation Specialist works primarily in a technical, engineering-focused environment combining office-based design and configuration tasks with on-site industrial field work. Office work involves using tools such as Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer, HMI development software, communication gateway configuration utilities, and Microsoft Office applications. Field work includes visits to industrial facilities for installation, startup, commissioning, and training, with up to approximately 25% travel required. On-site activities take place in typical industrial settings around monitoring systems, instruments, controls, metering, and electrical equipment, where adherence to site safety practices and appropriate attire such as standard industrial workwear and personal protective equipment is expected. The role involves close collaboration with engineers, technicians, vendors, and customer representatives in a team-oriented culture that emphasizes quality, reliability, and continuous improvement of monitoring solutions.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $36.00 - $48.00 per hour.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may include the following:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital insurance
• 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)

Schedule

This is a Contract to Hire, fully onsite position based in Raleigh, NC.