Controls Engineer

Title: Controls Engineer* * * * Classification: SalariedDepartment: Controls Engineering* * Date: 5/15/2026Supervisor: Ryan Smallfoot* * * Location: Council Bluffs, IA

Our Company:As a leading automation integrator, Acieta designs and delivers custom solutions powered by cutting-edge robotics and advanced technologies, from FANUC and KUKA systems to vision-guided applications, palletizing, and fully integrated cells. With operations across the U.S. and customers worldwide, Acieta combines the agility and collaborative culture of a small company with the resources and expertise to execute large-scale, transformative projects. Join our rapidly growing team and help shape the next era of automation.Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future visa sponsorship. Unfortunately, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Location/Workplace Type: Onsite in Council Bluffs, IAJoin Our Team as a Controls Engineer:Are you ready to design and implement cutting-edge automation solutions? As a Controls Engineer, you’ll play a key role in developing hardware and software for custom automation systems, bringing ideas to life from concept through installation. You’ll collaborate with customers, troubleshoot complex challenges, and occasionally provide on-site technical support. This is a hands-on role where your expertise drives innovation and ensures project success. What You Get to Do:Develop PLC and HMI programs tailored to Acieta and customer specifications.Design and implement custom automation solutions across diverse industries. Program and integrate peripheral devices such as robots, vision systems, and motion controls.Debug and validate machines to ensure optimal system performance and reliability.Collaborate with customers to maintain alignment and deliver exceptional results to support project buy-off. Contribute to hardware design by assisting with concepts and defining requirements.Support additional tasks within your training and qualifications.Promote a safe work environment by following all company safety policies. Performs other duties as assigned, which are reasonably related to the scope of the position and necessary for business operations.What You Bring to the Team:Onsite collaboration: Ready to work in person, 4-5 days a week at our Council Bluffs, IA location.Travel flexibility: Comfortable with approximately 30%-50% travel for installations and startups—primarily across North America, with occasional international projects. Must have Valid Driver’s License and PassportAssociate or bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Robotics, Electrical preferred)PLC programming expertise: 3+ years developing PLC code from scratch (Allen-Bradley or Siemens).Robotics integration experience: Skilled in integrating Fanuc, ABB, or KUKA robots.Automation project support: 3–5 years contributing to industrial automation projects from design through implementation. Customer-focused mindset: Proven ability to interpret and deliver on customer specifications.Technical proficiency: Strong ability to read and understand engineering drawings.Physical Requirements:The physical demands listed below represent essential functions of this role. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.Ability to remain in a stationary position and move about the worksite as needed.Frequent use of hands to operate tools, controls, and equipment; occasional positioning of self to access low or elevated areas. Regular lifting and moving of up to 25 lbs., frequent lifting of up to 50 lbs., and occasional lifting of up to 100 lbs.Visual requirements include close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.Working Conditions: The following describes the typical working environment for this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable federal and state laws.This position is primarily based in a fabrication/manufacturing shop environment and may require periodic travel to manufacturing or customer sites to support machine build, installation, testing, or related activities. The role involves regular exposure to moving machinery, mechanical components, pneumatic systems, and potential electrical hazards commonly found in industrial manufacturing settings.Manufacturing areas are characterized by elevated noise levels consistent with industrial operations; appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including hearing protection, may be required and is provided in accordance with safety policies.Work may include standing, walking, bending, lifting, and hands-on interaction with tools and equipment for extended periods, consistent with shop-floor operations. Employees are expected to follow established safety procedures, use required PPE and comply with applicable Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations to maintain a safe work environment.The company provides safety training, protective equipment, and oversight to support employee health, safety, and regulatory compliance.Acknowledgment and AgreementBy signing below, I acknowledge that I have reviewed and understand the job description provided for the position I am applying for. I agree to perform all duties and responsibilities outlined therein, as well as any additional tasks reasonably related to the role, in accordance with company policies and applicable laws.

Name DateControls EngineerCouncil Bluffs, IA | Up to $120,000 + BenefitsIMPORTANT WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTCandidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship. Sponsorship and visa transfers are not available for this position, including H-1B, TN, OPT, CPT, or other employment-based visa programs.Build the Future of AutomationAre you a Controls Engineer who enjoys bringing custom automation systems to life? Our client is a leading automation and robotics integrator that designs and builds custom solutions for manufacturers across a wide range of industries. From robotic welding and assembly systems to vision-guided automation and fully integrated production cells, their projects help customers improve productivity, quality, and efficiency through advanced automation technologies.We're looking for a Controls Engineer who enjoys the full project lifecycle—from programming and system development through machine startup, commissioning, and customer support. If you thrive on solving complex technical challenges and working with cutting-edge automation technologies, this could be an excellent opportunity.What You'll DoAs a Controls Engineer, you'll be responsible for developing, programming, testing, and commissioning custom automation systems for customers throughout North America.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop PLC and HMI programs from scratch for custom automation systemsDesign and implement control solutions based on customer specifications and project requirementsProgram and integrate robotics, vision systems, motion control systems, and other automation technologiesPerform machine debugging, testing, and validation to ensure reliable system performanceParticipate in machine startup, commissioning, and customer acceptance activitiesWork directly with customers to ensure project requirements and performance expectations are achievedWhat We're Looking For3+ years of PLC programming experience, including developing code from scratchExperience with Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLC platformsExperience integrating industrial robots such as FANUC, ABB, or KUKA3-5+ years supporting industrial automation, robotics, or custom machine build projectsAbility to read and interpret electrical schematics, engineering drawings, and technical documentationStrong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilitiesBonus ExperienceHMI developmentMachine vision integrationMotion control systemsStartup and commissioning experiencePrevious experience working for an automation integrator, robotics company, or custom machine builderTravelThis position requires approximately 30-50% travel, primarily throughout North America, with occasional international travel for customer installations, system startups, and project support. Why Consider This Opportunity?Work on highly customized automation and robotics projectsBe involved throughout the entire project lifecycle—from design through startup and customer handoffExposure to advanced robotics, machine vision, motion control, and industrial automation technologiesJoin a growing organization with a strong reputation in the automation industryQualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.