Controls Engineering Manager
Sterling Engineering Inc.
Job Description
Job Description
Electrical Controls Engineering Manager
West Michigan (Relocation Available)
Full-Time | Direct Hire
Minimal to No Travel
A well-established custom automation and industrial systems integrator is seeking an Electrical Controls Engineering Manager to lead and support a growing controls engineering team. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys staying technical while guiding engineers through complex, customer-driven automation projects.
The company specializes in custom automated systems for automotive and truck manufacturing, including adhesive lines, bonding systems, and robotic automation.
Why This Role Stands Out
Lead a team of Controls Engineers and Test Engineers
Hands-on programming — not a desk-only management role
Minimal to no travel
Flexible work schedule
Stable organization with ~100 employees
Strong, repeat customer base in automotive and truck manufacturing
What You’ll Be Doing
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Controls and Robot Engineers
Oversee PLC, HMI, and robotic control system design for custom automation projects
Review and approve programs, safety layouts, schematics, and documentation
Act as the technical escalation point for complex automation challenges
Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Project Management, and Sales
Interface directly with customers on technical reviews and project execution
Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and regulatory expectations
Technology Environment
PLCs: Allen-Bradley (primary)
Robotics: Fanuc (primary), some ABB
Automation Focus:
Adhesive and bonding systems
Automotive and truck body components
Robotic material handling and assembly
What We’re Looking For
10+ years of automation controls experience
Prior leadership or team-lead experience in a custom automation environment
Strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming background
Fanuc robot programming experience (ABB a plus)
Comfortable being hands-on when projects demand it
Customer-facing experience and strong communication skills
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or equivalent experience
Reporting Structure
Reports to the Managing Director, with direct visibility to executive leadership
Location & Relocation
Preference for Midwest-based candidates
Relocation assistance is available
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. #inauto
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