Electrical Controls Engineer (Grand Rapids)

Controls Engineer | Custom Automation & Robotics | Grand Rapids, MI

Our client is a leading system integrator delivering custom-engineered automation solutions across the aerospace, energy, medical, military, and general manufacturing industries. They design, build, and commission machines from scratch, seeing each project through to final run-off with the customer.

They are looking for an experienced Controls Engineer to join a close-knit engineering team, taking custom assembly and automation projects from concept through commissioning and final customer run-off.

What You'll Do

Controls System Design

• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to design and develop control systems for custom-built, robotic machinery
• Design control architectures, including selection and integration of sensors, actuators, PLCs, and other hardware components
• Develop and implement control algorithms to achieve desired system performance, accuracy, and reliability

Programming and Implementation

• Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and other control devices to execute desired control strategies
• Troubleshoot and debug control software to ensure smooth system operation

Integration and Testing

• Integrate control systems with mechanical components, electrical systems, and software applications on machines built from the ground up
• Support and participate in on-site run-off with customers, ensuring machines are fully validated before and after shipment
• Conduct thorough testing and validation of control systems, including simulation and real-world testing, to ensure proper functionality and safety

Documentation and Reporting

• Create detailed documentation, including control system specifications, wiring diagrams, and user manuals
• Generate technical reports summarizing control system designs, testing outcomes, and recommendations

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field
• Solid, hands-on experience in controls engineering within a machine-building or industrial automation environment; someone who can hit the ground running
• Proficiency in PLC programming and HMI systems
• Experience with robotics
• Ability to troubleshoot complex control system issues independently and implement effective solutions
• Excellent communication skills, comfortable working with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Knowledge of safety standards and regulations related to control systems and industrial automation

Why Join This Team

• Work on custom machines built from scratch, including robotics, PLCs, and HMIs, seeing every project through from design to on-site customer run-off
• Be part of an experienced engineering team solving real, hands-on technical challenges rather than working from a template
• Genuine opportunity to grow with a business continually looking for ways to improve its products and offering

Benefits

• Overtime paid at straight time after 45 hours/week
• PTO starting at 80 hours, plus 10 days of sick leave
• Healthcare covered 100% (Priority Health)
• 401(k) with 4.25% company match
• Additional benefits: dental, vision, and life insurance

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person