Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Entry Level- Traveling-Controls Engineer

Job Description

The Controls Engineer designs, commissions, and validates advanced automation and control systems for process manufacturing and data-centric facilities. This role focuses on programmable logic controller (PLC) configuration, troubleshooting, and on-site commissioning to improve efficiency, product quality, and overall profitability. The engineer works closely with internal teams and clients to deliver state-of-the-art control solutions that meet rigorous technical and regulatory standards.

Responsibilities

• Execute automation commissioning and validation protocols for control systems in manufacturing and data environments.
• Perform thorough troubleshooting and remediation of commissioning and validation non-conformances to ensure reliable system performance.
• Collaborate with internal engineers and client teams to design and deliver state-of-the-art control systems that enhance efficiency, product quality, and profitability.
• Define, implement, and modify programmable logic controller (PLC) configurations, with a focus on Rockwell platforms.
• Conduct testing, on-site commissioning, and qualification of control systems to meet project requirements and industry standards.
• Integrate equipment into existing and new control architectures, ensuring seamless communication and functionality.
• Commission and troubleshoot integrated systems in GMP, pharmaceutical, industrial, and data center environments.
• Apply and follow safety protocols on construction and project sites, contributing to a safe working environment.
• Execute assignments with minimal supervision, managing tasks and priorities independently while maintaining high quality standards.
• Work within multidisciplinary teams to build mechanical and electrical infrastructure on common networks and control systems.
• Support and sustain power monitoring and building management systems, including air motion, cooling, and related facility systems.
• Monitor and maintain power monitoring systems that support GPU-intensive environments, helping extend the operational lifespan of critical equipment.
• Travel to project sites as required for commissioning, validation, troubleshooting, and client support activities.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of hands-on experience troubleshooting PLCs, preferably with Rockwell platforms.
• At least 1 year of work experience in GMP, pharmaceutical, industrial, or data-focused environments.
• At least 1 year of experience integrating equipment, commissioning systems, and performing troubleshooting activities.
• At least 1 year of exposure to safety protocols on construction or project sites.
• At least 1 year of experience in a related field or industry involving controls, automation, or electrical systems.
• Strong automation and electrical knowledge applicable to modern control systems.
• Proficiency in PLC programming and configuration.
• Demonstrated ability to perform detailed troubleshooting of control systems and related equipment.
• Ability to execute assignments with little supervision or direction while maintaining accuracy and reliability.
• Effective collaboration skills for working in team environments with engineers and clients.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working in data center environments, particularly with power monitoring and building management systems.
• Familiarity with life sciences, power, and utilities projects.
• Comfort with frequent travel and working on-site at large mechanical and electrical facilities.
• Ability to adapt to a variety of projects across different industries, including data centers and process manufacturing.
• Strong organizational skills for managing commissioning documentation, validation protocols, and issue remediation.
• Capacity to grow into long-term opportunities and transition between projects as business needs evolve.

The culture emphasizes internal growth, long-term project opportunities, and exposure to a wide range of advanced automation and control technologies.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Holly Springs, NC.

The pay range for this position is $39.42 - $50.00/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)

This is a fully onsite position in Holly Springs,NC.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 20, 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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 process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.