Senior Controls Engineer

The Senior Controls Engineer leads automation projects and delivers high-quality control system solutions for process manufacturing environments. This role combines technical leadership, hands-on control system design, and close collaboration with internal teams and external partners to implement reliable, modern automation systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineers and technicians in the design, development, and delivery of control system solutions for process manufacturing applications.
• Collaborate closely with clients, partners, and internal teams to define requirements and implement modern automation systems.
• Develop control system architectures and create comprehensive lifecycle documentation for automation projects.
• Design electrical panels and produce detailed wiring drawings in accordance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards.
• Configure, program, and implement PLC and DCS systems to support process control and automation objectives.
• Redline P&IDs and maintain accurate, up-to-date technical documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Plan and perform testing, on-site commissioning, and system qualification to ensure systems operate safely and as specified.
• Mentor and support junior engineers, contributing to their technical development and growth.
• Support the development and continuous improvement of engineering standards, templates, and best practices.
• Provide technical support to business development efforts, including solution scoping and technical input for proposals.
• Travel between 10% and 30% of the time to customer sites and project locations as required.

• 4–8 years of experience in automation or a closely related field.
• Strong understanding of control system design, implementation, and integration in process manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience configuring and programming PLC or DCS platforms.
• Proven ability to lead projects and technical efforts with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership skills in guiding and coordinating engineers and technicians.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and team-oriented approach to work.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Windows and Server operating systems.
• Practical experience in PLC programming, HMI programming, and controls engineering.
• Experience with control system design, commissioning, and troubleshooting in an industrial environment.

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Computer, or Chemical Engineering, or in Engineering Technology.
• Experience with one or more major automation platforms such as Rockwell, Siemens, AVEVA Wonderware, or Ignition.
• Solid understanding of electrical design fundamentals, including panel layout and wiring practices.
• Experience with batch process control in industrial or process manufacturing settings.
• Exposure to Food and Beverage processes such as CIP, pasteurization, and packaging operations.
• General understanding of industrial network design and communication architectures.
• Ability to contribute to standardization efforts and continuous improvement of engineering processes.

The Senior Controls Engineer works primarily in an engineering and office environment, using modern automation software tools and standard productivity applications on Microsoft Windows and Server operating systems. The role includes regular interaction with multidisciplinary teams, as well as time spent at customer and plant sites during testing, commissioning, and system qualification activities. Travel requirements range from approximately 10% to 30%, depending on project needs. On-site work may involve time in process manufacturing and food and beverage production facilities, where adherence to site safety procedures, protective equipment requirements, and local dress or hygiene standards is expected.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Aurora, OH.

The pay range for this position is $48.08 - $62.50/hr.

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)

This is a fully onsite position in Aurora,OH.

This position is anticipated to close on Apr 24, 2026.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:

• Hiring diverse talent
• Maintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflection
• Building a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomes
• Ensuring growth opportunities for our people

Actalent is an equal opportunity employer.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC—with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.

Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.