Automation Specialist

Job Title

Automation Specialist

Support the automation and maintenance team in enhancing production, lab, and processing equipment. Update drawings and schematics for engineering as needed. Allocate 40% of your time to capital electrical and robotic projects, with the remainder spent on maintenance and PLC programming. Collaborate with integrators and control vendors, implement and document electrical and control processes, and oversee the work of maintenance mechanics.

• Support the automation and maintenance team in enhancing production, lab, and processing equipment.
• Update drawings and schematics for engineering as needed.
• Allocate 40% of your time to capital electrical and robotic projects, with the remainder spent on maintenance and PLC programming.
• Collaborate with integrators and control vendors.
• Implement and document electrical and control processes.
• Oversee the work of maintenance mechanics.

• Automation
• PLC programming
• Allen Bradley PLC
• Troubleshooting
• Robotics
• Schematics

• Associate's Degree in Robotics (e.g., Robotics and Control Systems Engineering Technology, Advanced Manufacturing and Robotic Technologies, Industrial Robotics and Automation, Robotics/Automation Technology)
• 6+ months of PLC programming experience

The position operates on a Monday‑Friday 3rd shift schedule, from 3‑4 PM until 12‑1 AM. Overtime will be paid. While you will have a desk, the majority of your time will be spent on the production floor. This role is situated in a stable industry with significant recent capital funding approved for automation and robotics upgrades, providing job stability and opportunities for career growth into true engineering roles.

Permanent position based out of Ankeny, IA.

Pay range: $65,000.00 – $75,000.00 per year. Benefits include Medical, Pharmacy, Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Accounts, Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (after‑tax), Company Voluntary Life Insurance (after‑tax), Short‑Term Disability (after‑tax), Long‑Term Disability (pre‑tax) and company contributions. Tax treatment:
Medical and Pharmacy pretax, Dental pretax, Vision pretax, Flexible Spending Accounts pretax.

Fully onsite in Ankeny, IA.

Position is anticipated to close on Jan 21, 2026.

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 actalentaccom

Entry level

Full‑time

Engineering and Information Technology

Business Consulting and Services