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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Alma, MI · On-site

$72.10K - $93.20K/yr

Key Responsibilities Automation & Controls Engineering * Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI systems, primarily using Allen-Bradley platforms (SLC 500, MicroLogix, CompactLogix, PanelView)

Controls Engineer

Alma, MI · On-site

$72.10K - $93.20K/yr

Key Responsibilities Automation & Controls Engineering * Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI systems, primarily using Allen-Bradley platforms (SLC 500, MicroLogix, CompactLogix, PanelView)

Controls Engineer - Software

New Baltimore, MI · On-site

$75.90K - $100.40K/yr

THE COMPANY Invio Automation is an Industry 4.0 automation leader that serves a variety of high ... DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineer-Software can apply PLC and HMI programming theory and knowledge to ...

Controls Engineer

Lake Orion, MI

$77K - $99.60K/yr

You will be required to maintain, develop and improve automation controls systems to help increase ... Programming * Work across with other facilities * Work cross functionally with other departments

Controls & Automation Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$79.10K - $104.70K/yr

The Controls & Automation Engineer will support the deployment and integration of Factory of the Future automation initiatives across manufacturing operations. This role will focus on executing and ...

Controls Engineer

Bridgman, MI · On-site +1

$78.40K - $101.40K/yr

Convergix is a global automation systems integrator that serves diverse end markets. We design ... Controls Engineer will work on various stages of automation and control projects including ...

Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI

$80.30K - $103.80K/yr

Automation & Controls Development Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems (e.g ... Project Engineering Align with Assembly Engineering activities for equipment installations ...

Controls & Automation Engineer

Troy, MI

$79.10K - $104.70K/yr

The Controls & Automation Engineer will support the deployment and integration of Factory of the Future automation initiatives across manufacturing operations. This role will focus on executing and ...

Controls Engineer I

Lake Orion, MI · On-site

$77K - $99.60K/yr

You will be required to maintain, develop and improve automation controls systems to help increase ... Programming * Work across with other facilities * Work cross functionally with other departments

Controls Engineer I

Harper Woods, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

You will be required to maintain, develop and improve automation controls systems to help increase ... Programming * Work across with other facilities * Work cross functionally with other departments

Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$80.30K - $103.80K/yr

Automation & Controls Development • Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems ... Project Engineering • Align with Assembly Engineering activities for equipment installations ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$40.1K

$85.6K

$122.5K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Michigan is $85,579.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,800.00 and $96,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Automation Controls Engineer Do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Automation Controls Engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

What are Automation Controls Engineers?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in MI? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Michigan as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,579 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Automation & Controls Engineer (SCADA) (2-8 yrs)

Automation & Controls Engineer (SCADA) (2-8 yrs)

Tetra Tech

Ann Arbor, MI

$81.70K - $108.10K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Tetra Tech rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

329th of 351 rated engineering


Job description

Summary:

Are you ready to take the next step in your career? Do you want to do meaningful work that improves quality of life? At Tetra Tech, you will work with high-performing teams who are passionate about using their expertise to find solutions to complex problems in water, environment, infrastructure, resource management, energy, and international development.
We currently have an opening for an Automation & Controls Engineer to join our Systems Integration team. The position is based in our Ann Arbor, MI location, and supports Tetra Tech's municipal, industrial water and wastewater market. The selected candidate shall experience a unique opportunity to be involved with SCADA projects located in various areas of the country working with a team of in-house experts in all disciplines.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead SCADA system design, write specifications, PLC and HMI programming, simulation and testing, and startup assistance.
     
  • Maintaining and growing solid client relationships (internal and external).
     
  • Assists in development of company programming standards and templates.
  Skills:
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley (RSLogix 5000 PLC software) is required. 
     
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity; computer networking, virtualization, Server OS is a plus.
     
  • Aveva System Platform is a plus.
     
  • VTScada is a plus.
     
  • Rockwell FactoryTalk View (SE and ME) is a plus.
     
  • GE iFIX is a plus.
     
  • Ignition by Inductive Automation is a plus.
     
  • Siemens Step 7 (TIA Portal) is a plus.
     
  • Experience with MSSQL Server, SQL Reporting Services is a plus.
  Education: 
  • Bachelor's Degree in an engineering discipline or related technical degree is preferred, PE a plus.
  Experience: 
  • 2-8 years of related automation experience with HMI's, PLC's and general SCADA integration.
  Travel: 
  • Ability and willingness to travel is required.  Approximately 25% over night travel may be required to support startup and troubleshooting activities.
Benefits:
  • 401(k) and Roth 401(k)
  • Dental Insurance
  • Health Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Paid time off
  • Performance Bonus
  • Career Growth Opportunities and Training
Additional Information
  • Organization: 227 DSX

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