Controls Engineer
Direct Hire
$80-100k
Location: Oxford, MI
Travel: 25-40% (U.S., Canada, Mexico, and South Korea)
Our client is a growing custom machine builder and automation company specializing in balancing machines, gauging and measuring systems, press technology, and other engineered automation solutions serving the automotive, aerospace, aviation, military, marine, agricultural, racing, and industrial markets.
They are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to design, program, commission, and support custom automation equipment from concept through installation. This role offers significant ownership of projects, direct customer interaction, and the opportunity to work on highly specialized capital equipment for industry-leading manufacturers.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop controls systems for custom automation and special-purpose machinery.
- Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, VFDs, servo systems, robots, and industrial communication networks.
- Design electrical controls hardware, electrical panels, pneumatic systems, and associated control architectures.
- Perform equipment startup, debugging, commissioning, and customer acceptance activities both domestically and internationally.
- Analyze customer specifications and develop controls solutions that meet performance and operational requirements.
- Troubleshoot machine performance issues and implement corrective actions.
- Support manufacturing, assembly, installation, testing, maintenance, and service activities.
- Develop and maintain technical documentation, operation manuals, and controls-related project records.
- Perform automation system testing and verify equipment functionality against customer specifications.
- Support machine vision applications utilizing technologies such as Cognex and Keyence.
- Collaborate with customers to identify solutions, resolve technical issues, and maintain strong business relationships.
- Ensure compliance with applicable quality standards, safety requirements, and customer specifications.
- Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and recommend process and technology enhancements.
Technical Requirements
- PLC Programming experience required.
- Experience with Allen-Bradley and Mitsubishi controls platforms required.
- Siemens experience is a plus.
- Experience with:
- HMI development
- Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
- Servo systems
- Robot programming
- Industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, Profibus)
- Electrical controls design
- Electrical panel design
- Pneumatic systems
- Machine vision systems (Cognex, Keyence)
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and E-Plan drawings.
- AutoCAD 2D experience preferred.
- Knowledge of mechanical systems, pneumatics, and industrial machinery.
- Familiarity with IT infrastructure and networking is beneficial.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field preferred.
- Degree not required for candidates with relevant controls engineering and machine builder experience.
- Minimum 3 years of experience with a machine builder, system integrator, or industrial automation provider.
- Experience supporting custom machinery, capital equipment, or special-purpose machines.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and perform effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.
INDQT