Controls & Automation Engineer

Controls Engineer - 5+ Years Of Experience

We are seeking a Controls Engineer with experience in PLC programming, commissioning, and production test processes. This role supports the development, validation, and troubleshooting of Beckhoff and Allen-Bradley control systems used in complex power electronics and turbine-related applications.

The position is hands-on, working closely with test cell operations, production teams, and field commissioning. While most work is performed in-house, you will support field teams by preparing systems for deployment, ensuring control units are fully configured, validated, and documented.

Key Responsibilities

Commissioning & Software Setup:

• Load, configure, and calibrate control system software on new units.
• Perform acceptance testing, including routine day-to-day validation activities on the production floor.
• Apply firmware updates, parameter changes, and onsite adjustments to support field commissioning teams.

Production & Test Cell Support:

• Work closely with test cell operations and production teams to ensure units are operating as expected.
• Conduct basic hardware inspections of power electronics cabinets, ensuring assemblies are completed properly and hardware is functioning.
• Access firmware, set system parameters, and confirm correct configuration prior to deployment.

Troubleshooting & Diagnostics:

• Apply logical troubleshooting methods to diagnose issues in instrumentation and control systems.
• Trace signals from sensors/instrumentation through to PLC code to ensure proper operation.
• Identify and recommend corrective actions for hardware, software, or wiring defects.

Documentation & Process Control:

• Prepare detailed work orders, test reports, and process documentation.
• Develop and maintain inspection procedures and validation processes.
• Maintain strong documentation habits to support quality and repeatability.

Technical Work:

• Check electronic components using various test equipment.
• Support unit test procedures and ensure proper functionality before release.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to implement control system updates and improvements.

Required Skills & Experience

Top Technical Skills:

• Allen-Bradley PLCs
• HMI configuration
• Controls engineering
• PLC programming

Additional Technical Skills:

• Beckhoff control systems
• Siemens control systems
• Firmware loading and configuration
• Instrumentation fundamentals
• Power electronics familiarity
• Automation systems
• Unit testing experience
• Troubleshooting (hardware & software)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in turbine, industrial automation, or power electronics production environments.
• Strong understanding of control architectures, instrumentation, and signal flow.
• Ability to communicate clearly with production, test, and field teams.

Job Type & Location:

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Katy, TX.

Pay and Benefits:

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $65.00/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 Katy, TX.

Application Deadline:

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 27, 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.