Job Information
Actalent Controls Engineer in Grand Ledge, Michigan
Job Title: Controls EngineerJob Description
As a Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for driving automation projects from concept through completion. This role involves designing and documenting electrical control systems, including schematics, panel layouts, and I/O wiring. You will also create hydraulic and pneumatic designs to support machine operation. Developing and implementing PLC and HMI programs will be key, as well as integrating components like sensors, VFDs, servo systems, vision technology, and machine safety devices. You will lead system commissioning and troubleshooting activities at manufacturing and customer locations, with periodic travel required. Additionally, you will oversee small to mid-sized projects to ensure schedules, budgets, and deliverables are met, and prepare detailed operator and maintenance documentation to support long-term customer use.
Responsibilities
Design and document electrical control systems, including schematics, panel layouts, and I/O wiring.
Create hydraulic and pneumatic designs for machine operation.
Develop and implement PLC and HMI programs, integrating components like sensors, VFDs, servo systems, vision technology, and machine safety devices.
Lead system commissioning and troubleshooting activities at manufacturing and customer locations.
Oversee small to mid-sized projects to meet schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
Prepare detailed operator and maintenance documentation for long-term customer use.
Manage multiple projects simultaneously, including 1-2 larger projects and 1-2 smaller projects weekly.
Essential Skills
Bachelor's Degree
3+ years of PLC programming from scratch (Studio 5000)
3+ years of HMI experience (FactoryTalk)
3+ years of AutoCAD Electrical experience
Ability to travel 25%
Field service engineering experience
Electrical engineering expertise
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Foundry experience (Nice to have)
In-house manufacturing experience (Nice to have)
Work Environment
This role is on-site, based in a foundry environment, working closely with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced industry setting. The standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, with a flexible start time centered around core hours of 08:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Controls Engineer may begin their workday earlier but not later than 08:00 AM. The position offers exposure to highly automated manufacturing equipment and extensive knowledge of engineering processes. Benefits include 10 paid holidays, 2 weeks of PTO, and access to Udemy after 6 months. The company offers a small-company feel with the financial backing of a larger entity, providing opportunities for equipment and training investments.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Ledge, MI.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $36.06 - $40.87/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 Grand Ledge,MI.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Apr 13, 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.