Controls Engineer

About the role

The Controls Engineer designs, develops, and implements control systems for automation processes and equipment, ensuring reliable, high-performance operation across a variety of material handling and sortation projects. This role programs PLCs and HMIs, integrates controls with mechanical and electrical systems, and supports commissioning and ongoing operation at project sites while working remotely and traveling regularly to customer facilities.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop control systems for new and existing automation equipment used in materials handling and sortation applications.
• Program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces) to meet project requirements and performance specifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with control systems, field devices, and related equipment to minimize downtime and improve reliability.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to integrate control systems seamlessly with overall equipment designs.
• Conduct thorough testing and validation of control systems to ensure safety, performance, and long-term reliability.
• Develop, update, and maintain detailed documentation for control systems, including schematics, wiring diagrams, functional descriptions, and user manuals.
• Read, interpret, and clearly explain electrical drawings to team members and onsite staff to support installation and commissioning activities.
• Lead or support commissioning activities at customer sites, including startup, debugging, and optimization of automated systems.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and production teams to ensure proper operation and basic troubleshooting of control systems.
• Collaborate with project stakeholders to implement changes, upgrades, and improvements to existing control systems.
• Utilize tools such as Studio 5000 and AutoCAD to design, configure, and document control solutions.
• Communicate effectively with remote and onsite teams while working from a home office and during travel to project locations.

Essential Skills

• Proven experience in PLC programming, including development, modification, and troubleshooting of PLC logic.
• Hands-on experience with HMI programming for operator interfaces and system visualization.
• Strong experience in controls engineering for automation systems, particularly in materials handling and sortation environments.
• Experience with Rockwell Automation platforms and RSLogix / Studio 5000 for PLC and control system development.
• Knowledge of VFDs (Variable Frequency Drives) and their integration into control systems.
• Understanding of Ethernet-based industrial communication networks and related protocols.
• Ability to read, interpret, and explain electrical drawings and schematics to technical and non-technical team members.
• Commissioning experience, including startup, testing, and optimization of automated equipment.
• Proficiency using AutoCAD or similar tools to create and update electrical and control system drawings.
• Solid understanding of PLC programs and control fundamentals, including safety interlocks and system logic.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working on automation projects in large warehouse and distribution environments.
• Experience in materials handling and sortation systems, including conveyors and related equipment.
• Ability to work effectively in a small, dynamic, early-stage automation organization with significant opportunities for growth.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills when working with cross-functional engineering and onsite operations teams.
• Comfort with remote work, self-management, and maintaining productivity from a home office.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing project schedules, site needs, and travel requirements.
• Organizational skills to manage documentation, project tasks, and travel logistics efficiently.

Work Environment

This role is primarily remote, based out of a home office, with frequent travel to automation project sites across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The position operates on a Monday–Friday schedule, generally from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00/5:00 p.m., with hours varying during travel and commissioning activities, so flexibility is important. Project sites include large warehouse and distribution facilities, where you will work around automated materials handling and sortation equipment and collaborate with onsite engineering and operations teams. When traveling, a daily per diem is provided and other business expenses are reimbursed or covered via a company credit card. The environment combines independent work from your home office with hands-on, field-based activities at customer locations, offering exposure to modern automation technologies and the opportunity to contribute to a growing, entrepreneurial organization.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Indianapolis, IN.

Pay And Benefits

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $35.00/hr.

Requirements

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)

Workplace Type

This is a fully remote position.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jul 17, 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 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.