Controls Engineer - System Architect

Responsibilities

Design and develop controls software, structures, and standards for new products, machinery, components, and assemblies.Create automation solutions that meet functional specifications, technical requirements, and manufacturing efficiency goals.Mentor team members in controls engineering practices, software architecture, and troubleshooting.Contribute to cross-functional design reviews and lessons-learned initiatives.Lead standardization efforts, conduct code reviews, and drive best practices within the controls group.Support development of project quotes, schedules, and resource estimates for equipment commissioning.Perform engineering proof-of-concept studies, including calculations, modeling, or simulations to validate new processes or technologies.Support pre-production builds and factory acceptance testing activities.Collaborate with other engineering or manufacturing sites to align on controls practices.Implement engineering changes and maintain all related software and documentation.Provide training and documentation to Maintenance and Production teams as required.Participate in knowledge transfer and troubleshooting guidance to support equipment uptime.Prepare spare parts lists and technical documentation for supported equipment.Act as a primary technical resource for assigned equipment and contribute to continuous improvement of future designs.Participate in various projects, experiments, and technical initiatives as assigned.Provide recommendations for product improvement and cost-reduction opportunities.Support project planning, reporting, and execution.Occasional travel may be required for installation support or equipment commissioning.

Essential Skills

15+ years of relevant experience, including higher-education coursework in engineering or related fields.Bachelor of Science in Engineering (preferred).Strong ability to conceptualize and communicate controls designs, including system diagrams, component diagrams, and logic flow.Proficiency in PLC programming, including structured text, function-block diagrams, and flowchart-based languages.Experience with industrial robot programming and simulation tools.Familiarity with modular software design, reusable subsystems, and version control best practices.Experience with industrial IPC/PLC platforms.Demonstrated ability to mentor others, lead technical discussions, and support team development.Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively across engineering and manufacturing functions.Proven troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with complex automated equipment.Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships across teams.

Work Environment

This role offers a hybrid work environment, requiring three days in the office.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Syracuse, NY.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $43.00 - $57.69/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 hybrid position in Syracuse,NY.

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.