• Controls Engineer

    Actalent (Vancouver, WA)


    Job Title: Controls Engineer Job Description

     

    This position is responsible for designing control systems for wood-fired energy systems and lumber dry kilns, as well as providing related products and services to the forest products industry. The role involves interfacing directly with all levels of the company to perform assigned duties efficiently.

    Responsibilities

    + Design and build control systems for wood-fired energy systems and lumber kilns.

    + Write and test programs for machines using PLCs and troubleshoot issues remotely or on-site.

    + Teach plant workers how to use systems safely and correctly.

    + Stay current with new technology to maintain top-notch systems.

    + Design electric controls and power-systems in compliance with contracts and applicable codes and standards.

    + Compare, evaluate, select, and configure electrical and electromechanical components.

    + Develop design and test PLC code and HMI screens.

    + Train plant personnel on proper operating procedures of new technologies.

    + Troubleshoot issues by phone, online, and on-site.

    Essential Skills

    + Degree in electrical or control systems engineering.

    + Experience with automation and control systems.

    + Skills in programming PLCs and HMIs.

    + Knowledge of motors, drives, and safety standards.

    + Hands-on experience with industrial equipment and control panels.

    + Proficiency in developing and testing PLC and HMI code.

    + Ability to design control systems that comply with NEC, OSHA, and other safety standards.

    + Strong troubleshooting skills for resolving issues remotely and on-site.

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

    + Knowledge of AutoCAD Electrical and MS Office or similar.

    + Demonstrated proficiency with PLC and PC-based control systems and HMIs.

    + Knowledge of PID and PI control theory, AC and DC drives, and motors.

    + Familiarity with NEC and electrical wiring practices.

    + Experience building and commissioning electrical control panels in accordance with UL508A.

    + Field experience with process industry, power distribution, and cogeneration.

    + Professional experience with 3-Phase electrical systems, field devices, and instrumentation.

    + International project experience.

    + Good understanding of computer and industrial networks.

    + Exposure to a wide variety of process machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment.

    + Experience solving complex problems with minimal supervision.

    + EIT Certification preferred.

    Work Environment

    The work environment is a small team of five engineers, offering a hands-on engineering experience with real impact. The team is involved in everything from PLC programming to field troubleshooting. The company fosters a tight-knit, collaborative culture where leadership is accessible and open to feedback. Engineers have the opportunity to work across a wide range of technologies, including steam energy systems, thermal oil, and ORC systems, allowing for growth and technical variety. The position requires up to 30% travel domestically and internationally.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Permanent position based out of Vancouver, Washington.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $85000.00 - $115000.00/yr.

     

    PTO 2-3 weeks depending on tenure sick holiday

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Vancouver,WA.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Sep 19, 2025.

    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.