• Controls Engineer

    Actalent (South Elgin, IL)


    Job Title: Controls Engineer

    Job Description

    We are seeking a dedicated Controls Engineer to join our dynamic team. You will be responsible for programming and debugging structured text and ladder logic code across various PLC controller platforms, including Automation Studio, Beckhoff TwinCAT, and Siemens TIA Portal. Your expertise will help develop organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable code for controlling complex, multi-station machinery. The role involves using Python scripting and SQL to interface equipment with manufacturing execution systems and collect data into production databases. You will also create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces using MappView/TwinCAT HMI and SCADA dashboards with Ignition. Additionally, you will set up and tune servo drives and VFDs, design and implement control reliable safety systems, manage electrical cabinet builds, and participate in equipment conceptual development.

    Responsibilities

    + Program and debug structured text and ladder logic code on multiple PLC controller platforms.

    + Develop organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable code for machinery control.

    + Create robust programs and sequences for processes such as material pick and place, dispense, fastening, welding, testing, and material transport.

    + Use Python scripting and SQL for interfacing equipment with manufacturing execution systems and data collection.

    + Create intuitive operator touchscreen interfaces and SCADA dashboards.

    + Set up and tune servo drives and VFDs for optimized operation.

    + Design and implement safety systems for safeguarding high-volume manufacturing equipment.

    + Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, and pneumatic and fluid plumbing.

    + Participate in initial equipment conceptual development and manage suppliers during specification, design, buyoff, and installation of automated manufacturing equipment.

    Essential Skills

    + Strong PLC programming Experience with experience in developing code.

    + HMI programming expertise.

    + OEM or System integration Experience.

    + 4+ years of experience in automation.

    + Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls and Computer Control Systems, Mechatronic Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience.

     

    Additional Skills & Qualifications

     

    + Experience with Siemens programming, Fanuc robotics, and vision systems (Halcon).

    + Knowledge of industrial networking protocols such as Profinet and EtherCAT.

    + Familiarity with AUTOCAD Electrical design.

    + Experience with controls hardware including sensors, remote IO, servos, VFDs, machine vision, and barcode readers.

    Work Environment

    The position is based at a site that builds custom equipment for manufacturing. The team includes approximately 15 Controls Engineers, along with Electrical design/drafting and Mechanical Engineering staff. The role requires regular floor troubleshooting and future travel (30-40%) to other sites for installation and commissioning.

     

    Job Type & Location

     

    This is a Permanent position based out of South Elgin, IL.

    Pay and Benefits

    The pay range for this position is $100000.00 - $130000.00/yr.

     

    Full Time benefits, 401k, profit sharing, and yearly bonus

     

    Workplace Type

     

    This is a fully onsite position in South Elgin,IL.

     

    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.