Field Service Engineer

Field Service Engineer

The Field Service Engineer supports the installation, startup, and commissioning of automated systems at customer facilities. This role focuses on programming and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servos, and robotics, while ensuring that electrical and controls systems operate safely, efficiently, and in line with customer requirements. The position works closely with both electrical and mechanical teams and requires frequent travel to various industrial sites within the United States.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the installation, startup, and commissioning of new automation systems at customer facilities.
• Program, edit, and troubleshoot PLC ladder logic, HMIs, VFDs, drives, and servos to ensure optimal system performance.
• Perform full I/O checks and system verification to confirm that automated systems function correctly and safely.
• Troubleshoot controls systems and electrical equipment onsite, including identifying root causes and implementing effective corrective actions.
• Create and implement programming changes to support equipment upgrades, retrofits, and process improvements.
• Establish and verify communication between machines using Ethernet or hardwired signals.
• Work collaboratively with mechanical and electrical installation teams to coordinate schedules, resolve issues, and complete projects on time.
• Wire machine controls and industrial control panels according to electrical schematics and applicable standards.
• Read and redline electrical schematics to document changes and support continuous improvement.
• Troubleshoot pneumatics and hydraulics as part of integrated automation systems.
• Apply working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) when working on electrical installations and modifications.
• Follow all customer plant, safety, and electrical regulations while working onsite.
• Travel to various customer locations, up to approximately 50% of the time, to provide field service support.
• Communicate clearly with customers and internal teams regarding project status, issues, and technical findings.

Essential Skills

• 3+ years of field service or controls engineering experience.
• Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, drives, and servos.
• Ability to program and edit PLC ladder logic and HMI applications.
• Working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
• Ability to wire machine controls and industrial control panels.
• Ability to read and redline electrical schematics accurately.
• Experience using electrical tools and diagnostic equipment in industrial environments.
• Experience troubleshooting pneumatics and/or hydraulics.
• Basic understanding of line control, electrical, and mechanical systems
• Willingness and ability to travel up to approximately 50% of the time within the United States.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with palletizing and automated material handling concepts.
• Experience with servos in automated systems.
• Exposure to Fanuc or KUKA robotics, with openness to further robotics training.
• Strong troubleshooting mindset and ability to solve complex controls and electrical issues in the field.
• Effective collaboration skills for working with cross-functional electrical and mechanical teams.
• Clear communication skills for interacting with customers and internal stakeholders.

Work Environment

This role involves working in a variety of industrial environments while traveling to customer facilities within the United States, with trips generally limited to about 10 days at a time. Travel can be up to approximately 50% of the time, with the option to travel more if desired. All travel-related expenses and a per diem are provided. The home facility is a modern, up-to-date building with large windows, collaborative workstations, and a clean, temperature-controlled shop floor filled with active projects. The environment emphasizes flexibility and respect for work–life balance, with a culture that supports training, professional growth, and open collaboration across teams.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rockford, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $35.00 - $45.00/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 Rockford, MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on May 15, 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. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.