Remote Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX

Job Description

This Controls Engineer role focuses on developing and supporting liquid cooling test racks and associated control panels. You will design, program, and integrate PLC and HMI systems to enable automated control, leak detection, and reliable operation of advanced cooling and fluid systems. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to critical, fast-paced projects with potential for full-time employment or extension to additional teams and projects based on performance.

Responsibilities

• Develop and program PLC systems using platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider to control liquid cooling and test rack systems.
• Design and implement HMI interfaces for real-time system monitoring, control, and operator interaction.
• Integrate I/O systems, sensors, and control logic to support liquid cooling and leak detection functionality.
• Support panel build activities, including wiring, hardware integration, and configuration during onsite periods.
• Participate in testing and commissioning of control panels and test racks, ensuring systems operate according to specifications.
• Troubleshoot PLC, HMI, and control system issues, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Optimize control strategies to improve system performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collaborate with project stakeholders in a fast-paced, urgent project environment to meet milestones and deliverables.
• Support commissioning and startup activities for cooling systems and related automation, including integration with cloud or data center environments where applicable.

Essential Skills

• 8–10 years of experience in controls engineering, with a focus on PLC-based automation systems.
• Strong PLC programming experience, including Allen-Bradley CompactLogix / ControlLogix (Logix 5000), safety PLC programming, and Studio 5000.
• Hands-on experience developing HMI applications for industrial control or test systems.
• Experience working with industrial control panels or test systems, including integration and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with I/O systems, sensors, and automation hardware used in industrial environments.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, urgent project environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Experience with PLC platforms from Siemens and Schneider or similar industrial automation vendors.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Foundation with liquid cooling systems, coolant distribution units (CDUs), or other fluid systems.
• Experience in commissioning and startup of automation systems, including cooling or fluid systems.
• Exposure to cloud or data center environments, including platforms such as AWS, is beneficial.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills in controls and automation contexts.
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams during design, build, test, and commissioning phases.

Work Environment

This role offers a primarily remote work arrangement, allowing you to perform design, programming, and documentation tasks offsite. You will travel onsite for approximately 2–3 weeks to support panel build, testing, and commissioning activities, working hands-on with control panels, I/O systems, and sensors. The environment is fast-paced and project-driven, with a focus on timely delivery of high-quality control solutions and opportunities for longer-term engagement based on project success.

This is a Contract position based out of Austin, TX.

The pay range for this position is $72.00 - $110.00/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 hybrid position in Austin,TX.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 11, 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 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

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.