At least 5 years
This role is STARs-friendly: Skilled Through Alternative Routes.
71% STARs in role.
The Field Service Engineer supports the installation, startup, and commissioning of automated systems at customer facilities. This role focuses on programming and troubleshooting PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, drives, servos, and robotics, while ensuring electrical and controls systems operate safely, efficiently, and in line with customer requirements. The position works closely with electrical and mechanical teams and involves significant travel to industrial sites within the United States.
Responsibilities- Assist with new automation system installations, startups, and commissioning at customer facilities.
- Program, edit, and troubleshoot PLC ladder logic, HMIs, VFDs, drives, and servos for automated systems.
- Perform full I/O checks and system verification to confirm proper operation of control systems.
- Diagnose and resolve issues with controls systems and electrical equipment onsite.
- Create and implement programming changes to support equipment upgrades, retrofits, and process improvements.
- Establish and verify communication between machines using Ethernet networks or hardwired signals.
- Collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical installation teams to integrate and optimize automated systems.
- Wire machine controls and industrial control panels in accordance with applicable standards.
- Read, interpret, and redline electrical schematics to support installation, troubleshooting, and modifications.
- Troubleshoot pneumatics and hydraulics as they relate to automated equipment performance.
- Apply working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) when working on industrial electrical systems.
- Follow all customer plant, safety, and electrical regulations while working onsite.
- Support material handling and palletizing projects as part of broader automation solutions.
- Document work performed, programming changes, and system configurations for future reference.
- Travel to customer sites up to 50% of the time within the United States to provide field service support.
- At least 5+ years of field service or controls engineering experience.
- Strong experience programming, editing, and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, drives, and servos.
- Working knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC).
- Ability to wire machine controls and industrial control panels safely and accurately.
- Ability to read, interpret, and redline electrical schematics.
- Hands-on experience using electrical tools and diagnostic equipment in industrial environments.
- Experience troubleshooting pneumatics and/or hydraulics on automated equipment.
- Basic understanding of line control, electrical systems, and mechanical systems.
- Ability to work in high and low voltage industrial environments.
- Ability to stand or sit for extended periods during installation, commissioning, and service work.
- Willingness and ability to travel up to 50% of the time within the United States.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience.
- Experience or training with Fanuc or KUKA robotics.
- Understanding of palletizing and automated material handling concepts.
- Experience working with servos in industrial automation applications.
- Background in materials handling and palletizing systems.
- Interest in ongoing training and professional development in robotics and automation technologies.
This position is based in a modern, up-to-date headquarters facility with a clean, temperature-controlled shop floor and bright office spaces featuring ample windows and collaboration areas. The shop is filled with active projects and is maintained to high standards of cleanliness and organization. The role involves up to 50% travel within the United States to a variety of industrial environments, with no travel outside the country. Travel assignments are typically limited to no more than 10 days at a time, and per diem and travel expenses are provided. The organization emphasizes flexibility and a family-first culture, supporting reasonable flexibility in work hours and schedules. While onsite at customer locations, the Field Service Engineer works in different plant environments and must adhere to all local safety and electrical regulations. Training opportunities, including robotics training, are available to support skill development and career growth.
Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Rockford, MI.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $35.00 - $45.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Rockford,MI.
Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Sep 25, 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.
Posting ID: JP-006281471