Actalent

Job Title: Automation & Controls Project Manager

Job Description

The Lead Automation & Controls Project Manager is responsible for the end-to-end leadership of complex industrial automation and control systems projects. This role involves leading projects from Front-End Engineering & Design (FEED) through detailed design, commissioning, and start-up. The position requires a blend of technical expertise in automation systems and commercial execution leadership, ensuring projects are delivered safely, profitably, and in alignment with client expectations. The manager will serve as the primary technical and commercial authority on assigned projects, leading multidisciplinary teams and maintaining strong client relationships.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all phases of automation and controls projects, including FEED, detailed engineering, panel integration, factory acceptance testing, site commissioning, and start-up.
• Serve as the technical authority for control, safety, and information system solutions across industrial process applications.
• Ensure automation architectures, control philosophies, and system designs align with project scope, client standards, and industry best practices.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve complex technical challenges during execution and commissioning.
• Manage projects with a focus on contract value growth, margin protection, and revenue realization.
• Identify and manage client scope changes, developing change orders to prevent margin erosion.
• Maintain responsibility for project budgets, cost forecasting, earned value tracking, and financial reporting.
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules covering engineering, panel fabrication, procurement, and field execution activities.
• Communicate scope, schedule, and budget expectations to project team members and ensure accountability for milestones.
• Prepare and present project status reports, forecasts, and progress updates to clients and internal leadership.
• Lead and manage Sr. automation engineers, designers, panel shop resources, commissioning/start-up personnel, and MCC fabrication partners.
• Plan and optimize resource allocation to ensure high utilization and billability of project teams.
• Provide direction, mentorship, and technical guidance to junior engineers and project management staff.
• Serve as the primary client interface for assigned projects, building trust through strong technical leadership and proactive communication.
• Support proposal and business development efforts by reviewing RFQs, technical specifications, and commercial terms.
• Ensure project execution complies with company standards, client safety requirements, and regulatory expectations.
• Collaborate with project teams to share expertise, standardize execution practices, and support multi-office projects.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering
• Strong experience with MS Business Central ERP
• PMP Professional Project Management Certification
• 10+ years of proven project management experience in managing control system and automation projects in industries such as Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, Refining, LNG, Data Centers, and Power Generation
• Familiarity with OEM control system platforms like Rockwell Automation products, Wonderware HMI software, Ignition HMI software, Emerson Delta-V platforms, and Invensys platforms
• Effective communication skills

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Strong track record of generating new business or increasing project revenues through effective project management skills and customer relationships

Work Environment

The position is onsite and involves managing automation teams to take projects from start to finish. You will join a strong team that delivers the best automation solutions and services in industrial markets such as Oil & Gas, Petrochemical, Refining, LNG, Data Centers, and Power Generation. This role is an outstanding opportunity to lead innovative solutions supporting the emerging Energy Sector Markets in the U.S. and globally.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Plano, TX.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $70.00 - $90.00/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 Plano,TX.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Mar 12, 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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.