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Automation Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Automation Technician must demonstrate competency in all (3) of the below specialties; * Controls: * PLC Programming * Intermediate PLC programming (add sensor & change sequence) * Strong ...

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 ...

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 ...

Development, implementation, and programming of new advanced manufacturing equipment and automation. * Provide support and development of automation technicians across multiple Howmet facilities.

Sr. Automation Engineer

Warren, MI · Hybrid

$97K - $128K/yr

The Role The Sr. Automation Engineer is a recognized professional in supplier automation assessment and manufacturing optimization. This role leads strategic initiatives to evaluate and elevate ...

We are placing an experienced PLC Automation Engineer with our client Ada, MI. Learn more about working with a variety of clients, solutions, and environments to develop best in class solutions.

Sr. Automation Engineer

Warren, MI · Hybrid

$97K - $127K/yr

The Role The Sr. Automation Engineer is a recognized professional in supplier automation assessment and manufacturing optimization. This role leads strategic initiatives to evaluate and elevate ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

The Role The Sr. Automation Engineer is a recognized professional in supplier automation assessment and manufacturing optimization. This role leads strategic initiatives to evaluate and elevate ...

The Automation Engineer (DCS) role will support Cytiva's new plant for manufacturing of chromatography resins located in Muskegon, MI. This exciting role will lead start-up and establishment of ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$32.2K

$93.4K

$142.1K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Michigan is $93,371.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,400.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

What are Automation Engineers?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What are some common challenges Automation Engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

What Does an Automation Engineer Do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Automation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,371 per year, or $44.9 per hour.
Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Rule 5 Hire

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Provide production support by performing setup, troubleshooting and operations of automated welding cells within a production facility, as well as implementing best practices and proactively assess welding/robotic applications, as well as mentor Auto Technician I-IV team members.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND RESULTS:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
    • Demonstrate proficiency while troubleshooting automated welding cells to effect permanent change in order to eliminate cell downtime.
    • Document and record all improvements and changes within the process in an ERP system.
    • Follow all safety procedures and protocols while servicing or maintaining equipment.
    • Mentor Auto and Weld Technicians.
    • Ability to execute with proficiency all duties and responsibilities requirements of weld technician.
    • Prioritize tasks within the facility relating to weld troubleshooting, set-up coordinated with production.
    • Demonstrate proficiency in troubleshooting using prints, multimeters, amp meters, etc.
    • Perform, train and critique equipment preventative maintenance.
    • Plex utilization (downtime codes, note entry, documentation, locating part listings/prints, etc.).
    • Troubleshoot electrical components and circuits (Connecting circuit breakers, transformers, or other components in a junction box or panel).
    • Wiring harnesses.
    • Drive systems.
    • Relays.
    • Boards.
    • Motors.
    • Make proper connections of the following communication protocols: fiber optics, Ethernet, DeviceNet.
    • Modify and perform basic programming of robots in all robotic applications such as ABB and Fanuc.
    • Advanced weld troubleshooting for all welding applications (drawn arc, GMAW, resistance welding, Air over Oil systems, etc.).
    • Properly troubleshoot and adjust pneumatic systems.
    • Troubleshoot and adjust weld fixtures.
    • Basic understanding of hydraulic systems (process, functions, etc.).
    • Setup and troubleshoot Poke Yoke systems and applications.
    • Weld troubleshooting.

Automation Technician must demonstrate competency in all (3) of the below specialties;
  • Controls:
    1. PLC Programming
      1. Intermediate PLC programming (add sensor & change sequence)
      2. Strong understanding of ladder logic and intermediate level ability to troubleshoot issues through a PLC
      3. Program Panel View (HMI)
      4. Troubleshoot/ Setup I/O blocks
      5. Search, cross reference, and edit a program
    2. Troubleshoot HMI system
      1. Load program
      2. Replace components (i.e., logical module, screen, etc.)
      3. Replace system, set IP address, set system name
  • Welding
    1. Intermediate Weld Troubleshooting
      1. If needed, rebuild or reload schedules. Make changes as directed by Weld Engineers using RAFT
      2. Emhart DA schedule changes as directed by Weld Engineers
      3. Conduct preventive maintenance activities on specialty equipment
      4. MIG weld schedule changes as directed by Weld Engineers
      5. Cap / Electrode studies and weld validation
        1. Calibrate squeeze force on spot weld guns
        2. Troubleshoot Drawn Arc Stud Welding issues as well as basic programming
        3. Troubleshoot/ setup projection welds
        4. Working knowledge of Miyachi Weld Tester

Experience
  • Minimum 3 years of Weld Technician, Automation Technician, or equivalent experience

Provide production support by performing setup, troubleshooting and operations of automated welding cells within a production facility, as well as implementing best practices and proactively assess welding/robotic applications.