Automation Engineer

Job Title: Automation Lead EngineerJob Description

We are seeking an experienced Automation Lead Engineer to support automation initiatives at the Battery Plant in Holland, OH. This role requires a deep expertise in PLC programming and controls integration, along with a solid understanding of mechanical systems. The successful candidate will collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to identify automation opportunities, optimize manufacturing processes, and lead the specification, design, and integration of new automation systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects with a focus on PLC programming, controls architecture, and system integration.

• Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Controls Engineering, and Operations to identify process inefficiencies and automation opportunities.

• Work directly with suppliers and vendors to specify, design, build, and integrate new automation equipment into existing manufacturing lines.

• Conduct facility inspections and gather real-time data to inform engineering decisions.

• Support procurement, commissioning, and troubleshooting of automation systems and controls.

• Ensure compliance with safety standards, environmental regulations, and plant protocols.

• Document control logic, system architecture, and training materials for internal teams.

• Stay current with emerging technologies in industrial automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing.

Essential Skills

• 7+ years of experience in controls engineering within a manufacturing environment.

• Proficiency in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell preferred), HMI development, and industrial networking.

• Experience working with external vendors to develop and integrate custom automation solutions.

• Strong understanding of automation hardware (sensors, actuators, drives, vision systems, etc.) and control panel design.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, Controls, or Manufacturing Engineering, or equivalent relevant experience.

• Experience in battery manufacturing, automotive, or high-volume production environments.

• Knowledge of SCADA/MES systems, data acquisition, and industrial IoT technologies.

• Exposure to sustainability practices and energy-efficient automation design.

Work Environment

This position is onsite at a battery plant in Holland, OH. The work environment involves direct interaction with advanced automation technologies and requires adherence to safety and environmental regulations.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Holland, OH.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $53.00 - $58.00/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 Holland,OH.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 27, 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 [email protected] (%[email protected]) for other accommodation options.