Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

We are seeking a skilled Automation Engineer with an Associate's degree in Electronic Technology or Automation and 4-7 years of relevant experience. In this role, you will collaborate with design and operations engineers, purchasers, and internal teams to commission and maintain microprocessor-based control systems. Your expertise will be essential in interpreting construction schedules, managing QA/QC checklists, and applying Sequence of Operations (SOO) to program logic.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with design engineers, operations engineers, purchasers, and internal teams.
• Commission microprocessor-based control systems, including PLC, DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, and transducers.
• Interpret construction schedules and manage QA/QC checklists and commissioning logs.
• Apply Sequence of Operations (SOO) to program logic.
• Develop and modify code using ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming.
• Mentor and oversee Automation Technicians (Levels I & II).
• Lead medium to large-scale automation projects.
• Calibrate input/output devices such as temperature sensors and pressure transducers.
• Upload, download, and modify control software/programs.
• Create and troubleshoot automation networks and communication protocols.
• Diagnose complex HVAC and electrical systems, including psychometrics, refrigeration, building pressure, life safety, EPMS, steam heating, humidification/dehumidification, and central heating/cooling.
• Integrate control points into graphical interfaces and dashboards.
• Design automation system graphics and dashboards.

Essential Skills:

• Automation
• PLC programming
• Controls engineering
• Experience with Rockwell and Schneider Electric systems
• Ability to use a multimeter
• Experience with programming Control Systems from scratch
• AutoCAD Electrical
• Wonderware
• FactoryTalk

Additional Skills & Qualifications:

• Ability to work autonomously
• Experience with Microsoft Products
• Familiarity with Microsoft SQL or other database applications
• Understanding of basic process controls such as PID loops, motor control, and commissioning digital/analog devices

Work Environment:

This role will involve both office and field work. In the office, expect extended periods of desk work involving computer-based tasks. Field work includes frequent visits to local construction job sites with significant client interaction, requiring 30-50% travel, although managers anticipate it being less than 20%. Travel will occur on weekdays with several months' notice. The company culture is family-like, emphasizing integrity, collaboration, and growth opportunities. The company is recognized as one of Iowa's Top Workplaces for nine consecutive years and offers competitive benefits, including an ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan), two retirement plans, and relocation incentives for Eastern Iowa.

Job Type & Location:

This is a Permanent position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

Pay and Benefits:

The pay range for this position is $93000.00 - $112000.00/yr.

- ESOP

- 401K through Principal

- Medical/Dental/Vision

- FSA

- HSA

- Employee Assistance Program

- PTO starting at 3 weeks + 7 holidays

Workplace Type:

This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Application Deadline:

This position is anticipated to close on Nov 28, 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.