Senior Controls Engineer
Lansing, MI
$80-100K
Role Overview
The Senior Controls Engineer is responsible for maintaining and improving PLC-based control systems supporting manufacturing automation and plant-floor instrumentation. This role supports both new and existing equipment, with a heavy focus on troubleshooting, continuous improvement, and production efficiency. The position reports directly to the Maintenance Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and support PLC-based automation and control systems for manufacturing operations
- Troubleshoot electrical and controls issues to support uptime and continuous improvement
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on lean manufacturing and production initiatives
- Develop and support motor drive configurations (servo, VFD, and DC systems)
- Design electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic control systems for new and retrofit equipment
- Provide hands-on plant floor support to diagnose and resolve automation issues
- Support manufacturing efficiency through system optimization and upgrades
Technical Skills & Systems
- PLC programming and support
- ABB systems
- Advanced HMI programming
- Fanuc and Motoman robotics
- Motor drives (servo, variable frequency, and DC)
- Electrical and controls schematics
- AutoCAD (preferred)
- MS Office and ERP systems
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Controls, Automation, or Mechatronics Engineering
- Equivalent Controls Engineering experience will be considered
- 5+ years of Controls Engineering experience in automotive manufacturing
- Welding assembly facility experience strongly preferred
- Advanced electrical and mechanical aptitude in a manufacturing environment
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills
- Experience with Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing methodologies is a plus
EOE (including Disability/Veterans)