Controls Engineer

Step into a high-impact controls engineering role where you’ll shape the performance, safety, and reliability of complex automated systems. Joining a team that partners with leading manufacturers across Michigan, you’ll take ownership of control solutions that keep production running efficiently and safely.

About the Role:

As a Contract Controls Engineer, you will design, program, and commission industrial control systems for new and existing machinery and process lines. You’ll work closely with project engineers, electricians, and plant personnel to deliver robust PLC, motion, and HMI/SCADA solutions that meet production, quality, and safety objectives. Your work will directly influence uptime, throughput, and compliance with applicable safety standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.) for automated equipment and process systems.
• Configure and commission motion control systems, including servo drives, variable frequency drives, and related hardware.
• Tune PID loops to optimise process control performance, stability, and responsiveness.
• Design and implement safety circuits and machine guarding solutions in line with OSHA, NFPA 70E, and ISO 13849 requirements.
• Develop and configure HMI/SCADA screens, alarms, trends, and user interfaces for operators and maintenance personnel.
• Perform onsite startup, testing, and commissioning of control systems, including I/O checkout and functional verification.
• Diagnose and resolve control system issues, providing technical support during installation, ramp-up, and production.
• Prepare and maintain control system documentation, including schematics, programs, configuration files, and change logs.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience in industrial controls engineering, with hands-on PLC programming on platforms such as Allen-Bradley (Rockwell) and Siemens.
• Strong background in motion control, including servo and drive configuration, parameter setup, and troubleshooting.
• Demonstrated expertise in PID loop tuning and process control for manufacturing or process environments.
• Solid understanding of machine safety standards and practices, including OSHA, NFPA 70E, and ISO 13849.
• Experience developing and configuring HMI/SCADA applications for industrial automation systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control system drawings.
• Comfortable working onsite at customer facilities, including during installation, commissioning, and production support.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects or tasks.

Desirable Skills:

• Experience with Rockwell Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View, Siemens TIA Portal, or comparable development environments.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, etc.).
• Background in integrating robotics or vision systems into automated equipment.
• Exposure to data collection, reporting, and basic MES or historian integration.
• Experience working in automotive, food & beverage, or general manufacturing environments.

Qualifications:

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field preferred.
• Relevant technical training or certifications in PLC programming, industrial automation, or machine safety highly advantageous.
• OSHA and NFPA 70E safety training or certification beneficial.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to customer sites within Michigan as required.

If you’re a controls engineer who thrives on solving complex automation challenges and delivering reliable, safe systems, this contract role offers the variety and impact you’re looking for—apply now to take on your next project.