Software Controls Engineer

Controls Software Engineer - North Reading, MA

Job Description

This role focuses on developing real-time control software for advanced robotic and automation platforms. The primary responsibility is designing and implementing machine control logic using Structured Text (ST) and Function Block Diagram (FBD) programming within Beckhoff TwinCAT, Codesys, or similar IEC 61131-3 environments. You will work closely with robotics, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering teams to develop reliable control systems, integrate automation hardware, and support the deployment of high-performance robotic equipment. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex machine-control challenges and working directly with real-world industrial systems.

Responsibilities:

Design, develop, and maintain PLC-based control software using Structured Text (ST) and Function Block Diagram (FBD).

• Develop machine control logic, state machines, motion control sequences, diagnostics, alarms, and safety-related functionality.
• Implement and support automation architectures using Beckhoff TwinCAT, Codesys, and Industrial PC (IPC) platforms.
• Integrate sensors, actuators, servo systems, and industrial communication networks into robotic and automated systems.
• Support system integration, commissioning, troubleshooting, and validation activities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define system requirements and software architectures.
• Perform hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), system-level, and acceptance testing.
• Diagnose and resolve software and hardware integration issues using engineering test equipment and diagnostic tools.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, software specifications, and test procedures.
• Promote software quality through code reviews, testing practices, and configuration management.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience developing industrial automation, controls, robotics, or machine software.
• Strong experience programming in:
• Structured Text (ST)
• Function Block Diagram (FBD)
• IEC 61131-3 environments
• Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT, Codesys, or comparable PLC development platforms.
• Knowledge of real-time control systems and machine automation.
• Experience integrating industrial hardware including motion control systems, sensors, actuators, and servo drives.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP, Profinet, or Modbus TCP.
• Experience using source control tools such as Git.
• Strong troubleshooting, debugging, and documentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience developing software for robotics, autonomous systems, or advanced automation equipment.
• Experience with Industrial PCs (IPCs) and distributed control architectures.
• Familiarity with embedded or edge-device software development using C++, Python, or Linux-based systems.
• Experience with motion control, multi-axis systems, robotics kinematics, or coordinated machine movement.
• Experience with automated testing, simulation environments, or hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Knowledge of machine safety systems and safety PLC concepts.

Work Environment

You will work in a collaborative engineering environment focused on robotics and industrial automation. The role involves developing and supporting real-time control software that directly operates robotic equipment, motion systems, and automated machinery. Engineers regularly participate in system integration, testing, commissioning, and performance optimization activities while working closely with mechanical, electrical, and software teams.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of North Reading, MA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $65.00 - $80.00/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 North Reading,MA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 4, 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.