Controls Engineer (Automotive Manufacturing)

# of Openings: 4

Role: Controls Engineer

Job Type: 12 months contract (potential to extend or convert fulltime; based on performance and budget)

Location: Warren, MI 48092 / Defiance, OH 43512 / Saginaw, MI 48601

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday day shift, typically 40-hour work week. (1st shift; core hours are 8am to 3pm)

Overtime: Some OT expected as dictated by the project schedule

Shutdown Days: Yes, potentially

Travel: Traveling to plant sites as needed and suppliers potentially for equipment buy offs

Job Summary:

• Controls Engineers to design, develop, and optimize automation and control systems that drive the future of automotive manufacturing. In this role, you ll work on diverse automation projects, collaborating with cross-functional teams to launch new programs, integrate cutting edge technologies, and support world-class manufacturing operations. This is an opportunity to apply your expertise in PLC/HMI programming, robotics, and industrial automation to improve system reliability, efficiency, and safety across high-tech production environments.
• The main function of a controls engineer is to initiate control system design from written sequences of operation. A typical controls engineer is responsible for designing complex piping and wiring diagrams along with providing technical support across various control systems projects.

Job Description:

• Building automation that powers the future of automotive manufacturing
• Solving impactful technical challenges
• Working with cutting-edge robotics and PLC systems
• Taking ownership of major system launches
• Learning continuously in a rapidly advancing field
• Improving safety, reliability, and production efficiency
• Seeing ideas come to life on the factory floor
• Engineer and design pneumatic piping diagrams.
• Engineer and design electrical wiring diagrams.
• Engineer and design hydraulic piping diagrams.
• Design electrical control panels.
• Design programmable logic controller software.
• Design programmable human machine interface (HMI) software.
• Tryout, debug and provide start-up support for control systems.
• Provide technical support for installation of tools and equipment.
• Provide technical support for training of plant personnel.
• Travel to plant sites as required.

Responsibilities:

1. End-to-End Automation Expertise

• You bring the ability to take automation systems from concept to commissioning including PLC/HMI programming, robotics integration, testing, debug, and optimization ensuring smooth launches and high system reliability.

2. Strong Cross-Functional Problem Solver

• You excel at collaborating with mechanical, process, IT, and operations teams to diagnose issues, align on solutions, and drive improvements. You thrive in fast-paced environments and deliver clear, actionable solutions under pressure.

3. Continuous Improvement & Innovation Mindset

• You consistently look for ways to make manufacturing systems safer, faster, and more reliable. Your drive to enhance cycle time, ergonomics, operator experience, and overall equipment performance sets you apart.

Requirements:

• Bachelor s degree is preferred in electrical engineering preferred but NOT mandatory. Equivalent experience accepted (e.g., 10+ years as a Controls Engineer)
• Candidates must be able to work independently, take direction well, and deploy easily in plants
• Automotive background is a plus as well as in-plant experience

Technical Skill Expectations:

PLC / HMI Platforms:

• Rockwell PLCs
• Siemens PLCs & HMIs used at certain sites (including Defiance & Saginaw)
• Candidates may be strong in Rockwell or Siemens, depending on site needs
• Defiance & Saginaw roles expected to be more programmingheavy rather than PMfocused
• Proficient with application of programmable machine controls hardware and software.
• Proficient with application of Servo drive hardware and software.
• Proficient with AutoCad.
• Familiarity with basic electrical standards.
• Familiarity with basic safety standards.
• Capable of supervision.