Join a highly regarded automation integrator working on complex, high-impact manufacturing projects across Michigan. This is a chance to take ownership of advanced control systems and robotics solutions, collaborating with experienced engineers and leading-edge customers to deliver robust, production-ready automation. Youll be at the centre of projects that directly improve throughput, quality, and safety on the plant floor.
About the Role:
You will be responsible for designing, programming, and integrating industrial control systems and robotics cells from concept through commissioning. Working closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, and customer teams, you will ensure that all control solutions meet performance, safety, and compliance requirements. Your work will directly influence project timelines, reliability, and long-term maintainability of automated equipment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and develop control system architectures, including PLC, HMI, motion control, and safety systems for new and existing automation equipment.
- Program and integrate PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and associated I/O, networks, and field devices to meet functional specifications.
- Configure, program, and integrate industrial robots (e.g., Fanuc, ABB) including path programming, I/O mapping, error handling, and cell interlocks.
- Set up, tune, and commission motion control systems, including servo drives, VFDs, and related hardware for precise positioning and speed control.
- Develop and implement control logic, sequencing, and interlocks to ensure safe, reliable operation of automated machinery and robotics cells.
- Perform on-site startup, testing, troubleshooting, and optimization of control systems and robotics at customer facilities.
- Create and maintain detailed documentation, including electrical schematics, software revision records, and functional descriptions of control systems.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to review designs, resolve technical issues, and support changes requested by customers or internal stakeholders.
Key Requirements:
- Proven experience as a Controls Engineer working on industrial automation projects, preferably in manufacturing or automotive environments.
- Strong hands-on PLC programming experience with platforms such as Allen-Bradley (RSLogix/Studio 5000) and/or Siemens (TIA Portal, Step 7).
- Demonstrated experience programming and integrating industrial robots, including Fanuc and/or ABB, in production applications.
- Proficiency with motion control and servo/drive configuration, including setup, tuning, and troubleshooting of servo systems and VFDs.
- Solid understanding of industrial control hardware, including control panels, sensors, actuators, safety devices, and communication networks.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and mechanical drawings to implement control solutions.
- Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve control, communication, and hardware issues under time constraints.
- Willingness to travel to customer sites within Michigan for installation, commissioning, and support activities as required.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with safety PLCs and functional safety design (e.g., guard interlocks, safety relays, safety-rated controllers).
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, DeviceNet, or Modbus TCP.
- Exposure to HMI/SCADA development and integration for operator interfaces and data collection.
- Experience in automotive, Tier 1 supplier, or high-volume manufacturing environments.
- Knowledge of structured software development practices, version control, and standardized programming methodologies.
- Ability to lead smaller projects or workstreams, coordinating activities with internal teams and customers.
Qualifications:
- Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls Engineering, or a closely related discipline preferred.
- Associate degree in an electrical or automation-related field combined with significant relevant experience will be considered.
- Relevant vendor training or certifications in PLC programming (e.g., Rockwell Automation, Siemens) are an advantage.
- Robotics programming certifications or formal training (e.g., Fanuc, ABB) preferred.
- Valid drivers license and eligibility to work in the United States.
If you are a skilled Controls Engineer who enjoys hands-on design, programming, and commissioning of advanced automation systems, this contract role offers challenging work and the opportunity to make a direct impactapply now to be considered.
