Job Title: Senior Controls EngineerJob Description

The Senior Controls Engineer role focuses on developing, implementing, and optimizing complex control and automation systems with a strong emphasis on safety. This position involves supporting system commissioning, driving process improvements, ensuring regulatory compliance, and leading controls-related projects across production and development environments.

ResponsibilitiesDesign, implement, and optimize medium to high complexity control systems aligned with industry standards and project requirements.Participate in system commissioning and ensure designs meet functional, performance, and safety expectations.Develop and refine controls documentation, including electrical diagrams, functional specifications, user manuals, and validation reports.Conduct risk assessments to identify hazards in machinery, automated systems, and industrial processes.Design and integrate safety control systems, including safe PLC configurations, emergency stop circuits, interlocks, and protective devices.Ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulations such as OSHA, ANSI, RIA, and ISO/EN.Perform validation and proof testing of safety functions to ensure proper operation and reliability.Provide consultation on machine guarding, safety code compliance, and internal safety practices.Analyze and resolve moderately complex production and development issues using structured problem-solving tools including DOE, Six Sigma, and statistical methods.Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies into small-scale or moderately complex systems.Develop and optimize programs for advanced automation, data handling, and system analytics.Implement robust software practices to ensure data integrity, consistency, and cybersecurity.Configure industrial communication networks (Modbus, PROFINET, EtherNet/IP), including switches, VLANs, and device-to-system data exchange.Use advanced data analysis techniques to identify trends, correlations, and improvement opportunities.Analyze system data to drive measurable improvements in cycle time, throughput, and equipment utilization.Leverage new control technologies to improve process reliability and efficiency.Lead medium-sized controls projects, including scoping, resource coordination, and process improvements.Present concepts and recommendations to leadership and collaborate across departments.Mentor entry-level engineers and interns, providing guidance, feedback, and support.Essential SkillsBS degree is a must, Engineering preferred.10+ years of experience in the field.Proficiency with standards like ANSI B11 (Safety of Machinery), ANSI/ISA-84, and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.Additional Skills & QualificationsExpertise in safe PLC configurations, emergency stop circuits, interlocks, and protective devices.Experience with structured problem-solving tools such as DOE and Six Sigma.Ability to configure industrial communication networks including Modbus, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP.Work Environment

The work environment involves collaborating across departments and leading medium-sized projects. The role necessitates a focus on safety and compliance with various industry standards and regulations. This position requires a professional who can mentor others, work on complex systems, and present technical concepts to leadership.

Job Type & Location

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

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $50.00 - $65.00/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,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 6, 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 due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.