Lab Automation Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Controls Engineer who thrives in a small company atmosphere and enjoys wearing multiple hats. This position is not strictly a desk or office role; it requires hands-on involvement on the floor, working in the lab, troubleshooting machines, and occasionally interfacing with customers. You will work cross-functionally with multiple internal departments, contributing to both customer support and machine/system commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and commission machines/systems both remotely and onsite, with approximately 3-4 trips per year.
• Provide customer support, including reviewing electrical schematics and assisting customers with troubleshooting.
• Engage in structured text programming for PLCs, primarily using B&R technology.
• Collaborate with customers, demonstrating a passion for learning and a willingness to try new things.
• Perform hands-on tasks such as turning wrenches and working with hydraulics, which are unique for a software/controls engineer.

• Proficiency in PLC programming, automation, structured text, and controls engineering.
• Experience in software and electrical engineering, including the ability to interpret electrical schematics.
• Knowledge of robotics and mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with Allen-Bradley technology.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Controls, Computer Science, Mechatronics).
• 2-5 years of experience in Controls/Software Engineering, with a preference for experience in PLCs and structured text programming.
• Knowledge of electrical engineering principles, including electronics such as multimeters and oscilloscopes.
• Troubleshooting experience and mechanical aptitude are desirable.
• Desire and capability to interface effectively with customers.

Experience a small company atmosphere where you are encouraged to wear multiple hats. This role involves more than just a desk job; you will be required to go out on the floor and troubleshoot machines, work in the test lab, and more. Minimal travel is required, approximately 5-10% annually.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chaska, MN.

The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $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 Chaska,MN.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 26, 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.