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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

DISHER

Automation Controls Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer - Novi, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a world leading automation company that specializes in groundbreaking technologies for flawlessly manufacturing millions of ...

DISHER

Automation Controls Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer - Novi, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a world leading automation company that specializes in groundbreaking technologies for flawlessly manufacturing millions of ...

DISHER

Automation Controls Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer - Novi, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a world leading automation company that specializes in groundbreaking technologies for flawlessly manufacturing millions of ...

General Motors

Controls Engineer (Automation)

Warren, MI

$78K - $103K/yr

The Role We are seeking a Controls Engineer with a focus on industrial automation to support design, implementation, and support of automated manufacturing systems. In this role, you will work ...

New

W3Global Inc.

System Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Diagnose and resolve automation, controls, and instrumentation issues to minimize downtime and ... Collaborate with internal engineering teams, plant operations, contractors, and vendors on ...

Herco LLC

Controls Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER - (PLC) CONTROLS ENGINEER - AUTOMATION CONTROLS ENGINEER If you are passionate about automation with little travel - HERCO has the job for you! HERCO is looking for a results ...

Epitec

Software Engineer Controls

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Job #105472 Epitec is seeking a Controls Engineer for the largest U.S. automaker in Sterling ... This role is responsible for developing, implementing, troubleshooting, and improving automation ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI

$82K - $106K/yr

Essential Skills * 2+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or ... manufacturing automation. * Experience working in automotive powertrain manufacturing environments ...

Magna

Controls & Automation Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$79K - $104K/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 ...

Magna

Controls & Automation Engineer

Troy, MI

$79K - $104K/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 ...

androidind

Controls Engineer

Lake Orion, MI

$77K - $99K/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

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$42.1K

$89.8K

$128.6K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Detroit, MI is $89,839.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $101,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation controls engineer?

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 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 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.

More about Automation Controls Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,839 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Automation Controls Engineer

DISHER

Novi, MI • On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Automation Controls Engineer - Novi, MI
DISHER is currently partnering with a world leading automation company that specializes in groundbreaking technologies for flawlessly manufacturing millions of products. They have been awarded year after year as a great place to work and one of the "World's Most Admired Companies".
What it's like to work here:
Their team is the secret to their success. They are empowered, inventive, and inclusive. This company champions their teams, foster collaborations, inclusion, respect, and excellence. Working with this company, you will drive innovation with new advancements in industry. You will have opportunity for future training to broaden skills and be a part of a team of experts to drive solutions that improve efficiencies, safety, and quality. You will work with multiple assembly plants and integrator. If you are passionate about your craft and are driven to succeed, this could be the place for you!
What you will get to do:
  • Responsible for projects from technical specification to startup support
  • Design and develop all aspects of electrical control systems, equipment, and programming using Lear standards and build upon with innovative ideas
  • Write, implement, and debug PLC software
  • Develop contingency and disaster recovery plans
  • Support install, launch and production of all cells.
  • Support implementation of proven and newly developed advanced automation.
  • Robust programming to increase equipment uptime without continuous intervention.
  • Document and use existing control standards to develop requirements for automated cells

What will make you successful:
  • Expert in RSLogix500, RSLogix5000, Studio5000, and FactoryTalk View Studio
  • Ability to navigate and interpret structured text programming languages like Visual Basic, C++, C#, and Python
  • Fanuc and Universal Robotics Programming or basic understanding with Robotics
  • Knowledgeable of I/O link, AB components, drive control, Keyence cameras, and industrial networking
  • Basic experience with Vision systems to guide robot - offsets
  • Understand and communicate applicable safety standards: general industry (OSHA 1910), machine guarding, robot safety (ANSI/RIA 15.06), automated vehicles, conveyor safety
  • Supporting member of Risk Assessments on all automated equipment
  • Ability to read and create electrical drawings in AutoCAD
  • Coordinate and manage controls systems
  • Communication with external manufacturing system/MES and OPC
  • Experience with SCADA systems
  • Must be a creative thinker, results oriented, focused, and attentive to detail and accuracy
  • Self-driven and willingness to work long hours during installations, if required
  • Willingness to travel up to 40% of the time
  • Bonus: Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV/AMR) experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical and/or Software Engineering
  • 5+ years' experience in a similar role

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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