$95,000–$100,000 Per Year
AutoCAD, Automated Assembly Equipment, Automation, Automation Engineering, Automotive Automation, Automotive Industry, Commissioning, Communication Skills, Continuous Improvement, Control Engineering, Control Systems, Electrical Engineering, Electricity, Engineering, Equipment Validation, Ethernet, Human Machine Interface (HMI), Hydraulic Engineering, IP (Internet Protocol), Identify Issues, Injection Molding, Maintenance - Electrical, Manufacturing, Microsoft Office, Multitasking, Network Support, Production Systems, Production Volume, Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Robotics, Schematics, Servomechanism, Vendor/Supplier Selection
About the role
Direct hire Controls opportunity in Alma, Michigan. Base salary: $95,000–$100,000 per year (commensurate with proven experience). Relocation is available.
As a Senior PLC/HMI Automation Engineer, you will shape, program, and continuously optimize the control systems that keep a high‑volume automotive interior operation running safely and efficiently. You’ll blend hands‑on troubleshooting with thoughtful design, enabling reliable output and smooth new launches.
A day in the life
- Start your day reviewing production performance, then dive into PLC/HMI logic (Allen‑Bradley SLC 500, MicroLogix, CompactLogix, PanelView) to fine‑tune sequences and improve uptime.
- Keep the line connected: develop and support networks including Ethernet/IP, DH+, DH‑485, and RS‑232.
- Integrate advanced technologies—robotics, vision systems, servo motion, and MES connectivity—to elevate quality and throughput.
- Partner with maintenance and operations on the floor to diagnose AC/DC circuits and sensor issues (PNP/NPN) and resolve controls‑related faults quickly.
- Update and maintain electrical schematics in AutoCAD; sustain plant‑wide controls standards and documentation.
- Support new equipment installation, commissioning, and machine buyoffs to plant standards.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives, introducing technologies that reduce downtime and enhance product quality.
- Contribute to quoting, design reviews, and vendor selection to drive cost‑effective, standardized solutions.
- Train operators and technicians on new equipment and troubleshooting methods; manage crib stock for electrical spares.
What you bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field preferred.
- 5+ years of controls engineering experience in manufacturing.
- Background in automotive interiors or Tier 1 supplier preferred.
- Proven PLC programming and HMI development expertise; working knowledge of pneumatics and hydraulics.
- Experience with fully automated assembly systems incorporating Poka‑Yoke and MES.
- Track record implementing new automation into existing lines; injection molding experience is a strong plus.
- Comfort with power and control circuits: from 480 VAC three‑phase and 110 VAC to 24 VDC control.
- Skilled in machine buyoff procedures, equipment validation, and managing multiple priorities.
- Clear communicator and effective collaborator; proficient with Microsoft Office.
Why join
- Impact a high‑volume production environment with modern automation and continuous improvement.
- Direct hire with competitive pay; relocation support available.
Compliance
A successful candidate will be subject to a background check and must receive satisfactory results of the same, as a condition of joining the team.
By applying, you affirm that your application information is true and complete; falsification or misrepresentation may lead to withdrawal of an offer or termination.
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