• Controls Engineer

    Actalent (Malvern, AR)


    Job Title: Controls EngineerJob Description

     

    The Senior Manufacturing Controls Engineer is responsible for leading manufacturing engineering projects, including process optimization, equipment and tooling improvements, and the implementation of manufacturing and automation solutions for both new and existing production systems. This role focuses on driving improvements aligned with Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC) objectives through continuous improvement initiatives, data-driven analysis, and disciplined project execution. The engineer will lead projects from concept through implementation, serving as a technical leader and providing leadership development for the manufacturing organization.

    Responsibilities

    + Lead manufacturing, continuous improvement, automation, and capital projects from concept through implementation.

    + Define project scope of work, develop cost estimates, manage budgets, and create Activity Control Timelines (ACTs) for project justification, approval, and execution.

    + Program, troubleshoot, maintain, and support PLC-controlled systems and FANUC robotic systems.

    + Maintain and improve the long-term reliability of automation systems including PLCs, robots, HMIs, and control networks.

    + Utilize SQL databases, Microsoft automation tools, and Power BI reporting to analyze manufacturing and quality data.

    + Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for scrap, rework, downtime, throughput, and automation reliability issues.

    + Support new product introductions including layouts, capacity analysis, PFMEA support, and risk mitigation.

    + Manage daily project execution and communicate progress to impacted groups and leadership.

    + Provide technical mentoring and leadership development to engineers, technicians, and manufacturing personnel.

    + Develop and maintain training materials, standard work, and knowledge-transfer plans.

    + Prepare and present project status reports, business cases, financial justifications, and performance metrics.

    + Ensure all process and automation changes comply with safety, quality, and ISO standards.

    + Perform other engineering duties as assigned.

    Essential Skills

    + Proficiency in PLC programming and troubleshooting.

    + Experience with FANUC robotic systems and Allen Bradley PLC.

    + Strong project management skills with demonstrated project execution capability.

    + Working knowledge of SQL databases and manufacturing data systems.

    + Experience with Microsoft automation systems and tools.

    + Ability to work autonomously with a strong background in controls and project management.

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

    + Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or equivalent experience in lieu of degree.

    + 5+ years of experience in controls and project management.

    + Experience in using AutoCAD for manufacturing projects.

    Work Environment

    The role involves day-to-day controls, troubleshooting, and assisting with projects and Activity Control Timelines (ACTs) to secure project funding. The engineer will primarily focus on PLC-related tasks (40%), project management (40% for projects ranging from $100k to $250k), and Request for Quotes (RFQ)/funding activities (20%). The position requires the ability to work independently, leveraging skills in controls and project management to effectively execute assigned tasks.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Permanent position based out of Malvern, AR.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $57.69/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)

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in Malvern,AR.

     

    Application Deadline

     

    This position is anticipated to close on Jan 29, 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 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.