Controls Engineer

Talon Hiring Solutions has a client in the Greater Birmingham, AL area seeking a Controls Engineer to join its team. This role is responsible for designing, programming, integrating, and troubleshooting custom automated and robotic systems from initial concept through installation and commissioning.The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with industrial controls, PLC programming, and electromechanical systems, along with the ability to work collaboratively with engineering teams and customers to deliver innovative, high-quality automation solutions.

What You'll Do

• Design, develop, program, and troubleshoot automated electromechanical control systems for custom automation and robotic equipment.
• Program, modify, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, variable frequency drives (VFDs), servos, robots, vision systems, and other industrial control technologies.
• Collaborate with sales, project management, controls, and mechanical engineering teams to develop and implement automation solutions that meet customer requirements.
• Work directly with customers to understand technical needs, resolve issues, and provide responsive, high-quality support.
• Support control panel fabrication, system wiring, and equipment integration, providing technical guidance as needed.
• Participate in equipment builds, system testing and runoffs, commissioning, and customer-site installations to ensure systems meet project specifications and contractual requirements.
• Diagnose, modify, repair, and integrate robotic, mechanical, and electrical control systems in the shop and at customer facilities.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawings to support system development, installation, and troubleshooting.
• Perform quality inspections and ensure equipment meets applicable safety requirements, company standards, and relevant codes.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, service records, and updates in accordance with established procedures.
• Use electrical and other hand tools to support equipment assembly, installation, maintenance, and repair.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment, including the fabrication area and shop floor.
• Manage multiple assignments while working independently and under the direction of the Controls Manager and other engineering leaders.
• Travel to customer facilities as needed to support installations, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

What You'll Bring

• 2–4 years of controls programming experience or related industrial controls experience, including developing, editing, and troubleshooting existing programs and ladder logic.
• Hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servos, robots, or other industrial automation and control systems.
• Experience reading and interpreting electrical schematics and print sets.
• Familiarity with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Omron, Siemens, GE, or similar systems.
• Experience with HMI, VFD, servo, robotic, or machine vision programming is preferred.
• Experience designing electrical schematics or developing electrical prints is a plus.
• Practical experience integrating, modifying, troubleshooting, and repairing electromechanical control systems.
• Strong computer skills and the ability to maintain accurate technical documentation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to work effectively with customers and cross-functional teams.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple assignments and work with minimal supervision.
• A self-motivated, team-oriented approach and a commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds or more and perform hands-on work in a shop, fabrication, and industrial environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer locations as required.
• Ability to successfully complete required background checks and pre-employment and random drug screenings.