Controls Engineer

We have an Excellent career opportunity for aControls Engineer to join a leading Company located inSouthfield, MI.

As a Controls Engineer, you will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and continuously improving advanced manufacturing and automation systems. You'll work at the intersection of controls engineering, automation, and operational excellence-driving performance, reliability, and innovation across production environments. This role offers hands-on technical ownership, cross-functional collaboration, and the opportunity to influence both current operations and future expansion.

Job Responsibilities:

• Analyze machine performance and operational requirements using PLC-based control systems to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency.

• Plan, coordinate, and execute assigned automation and controls projects from concept through commissioning, tracking progress and results.

• Develop, manage, and forecast capital investment budgets related to controls and automation initiatives.

• Serve as the primary technical interface with automation, robotics, and capital equipment suppliers to select and implement control solutions.

• Provide controls engineering guidance for new equipment selection, system upgrades, and long-term scalability.

• Integrate and network PCs and PLCs using industrial communication protocols (TCP/IP, Ethernet/IP).

• Provide timely controls support to troubleshoot issues and minimize production downtime.

• Lead and promote lean manufacturing principles, including 5S, OEE, Kanban, Visual Factory, and TPM, to drive operational excellence.

• Identify and implement automation and process improvements to increase safety, quality, throughput, and efficiency.

• Collaborate internally and externally on controls-related communications, including technical presentations, design reviews, capacity analysis, and feasibility studies.

• Partner with Purchasing to evaluate new suppliers, technologies, and automation solutions to maintain a competitive advantage.

• Benchmark industry best practices in automation and controls and help incorporate them into internal standards.

• Mentor and support Maintenance Technicians, helping to build technical skillsets and strengthen overall team capability.

• Support an inclusive workplace by participating in reasonable accommodations as needed to enable essential job functions.

Basic Hiring Criteria:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Programming, or a related technical field.

• At least 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician in a manufacturing or industrial environment.

• 2-4 years of hands-on PLC programming experience, including:

• Allen-Bradley MicroLogix, SLC 500, and ControlLogix (5000 series)

• Manual assembly cells, automated assembly systems, and Power & Free conveyor systems

• 2-4 years of experience programming vision systems (e.g., Cognex, DVT, Keyence).

• 2-4 years of experience developing and maintaining HMI applications (Allen-Bradley PanelView / PanelView Plus).

• At least 2 years of experience working in JIT, SPD, ILVS, or batch manufacturing environments, including broadcast and demand-driven production logic.

• Experience with both manual and automated assembly systems, including mechanical and control system integration.

• Strong technical skillset including Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500, and FactoryTalk View.

• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and cross-functionally.

Military connected talent encouraged to apply.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor / Request Priority Protected Veteran Referrals / Equal Opportunity Employer / Veterans / Disabled

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The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:

• The California Fair Chance Act

• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance

• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers

• San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance