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Brewery Controls Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... brewery, and hospitality experience. The Assistant Manager serves as a key member of the property ... controls. * Support inventory counts, ordering, receiving, product rotation, and inventory ...

Brewery Controls Engineer information

What does a brewery controls engineer do?

A Brewery Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the automated systems that control brewing processes in a brewery. They work with electrical, mechanical, and software systems to ensure that equipment like pumps, valves, and sensors operate efficiently and safely. Their role includes troubleshooting issues, optimizing production processes, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. This helps breweries maintain consistent product quality and improve operational efficiency.

How does a brewery controls engineer typically collaborate with brewing and packaging teams to optimize production processes?

Brewery Controls Engineers work closely with brewing and packaging teams by designing, implementing, and troubleshooting automation systems that regulate critical processes like fermentation, filtration, and bottling. They frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to gather feedback on system performance, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that controls changes align with production goals. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Controls Engineers often lead training sessions for operators and coordinate with maintenance staff to minimize downtime. This close collaboration helps maintain consistent product quality while maximizing operational efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a brewery controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Brewery Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, process automation, and control systems, typically supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are common requirements. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for optimizing brewing processes and troubleshooting issues. These skills ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production in a brewery environment.

What is the difference between Brewery Controls Engineer vs Brewery Maintenance Technician?

AspectBrewery Controls EngineerBrewery Maintenance Technician
Primary FocusDesign, develop, and troubleshoot automation and control systems for brewing equipmentPerform routine maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of brewing machinery
Required SkillsAutomation, PLC programming, electrical systems, control systemsMechanical skills, equipment repair, troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentEngineering labs, control rooms, manufacturing floorsBrewing facilities, production lines
CertificationsElectrical certifications, automation certifications often preferredMechanical or electrical certifications, technical training

The Brewery Controls Engineer focuses on automation and control systems to optimize brewing processes, requiring technical and engineering skills. In contrast, the Brewery Maintenance Technician handles hands-on repairs and maintenance of brewing equipment. Both roles are essential in a brewery but differ in their technical focus and responsibilities.

Are brewery controls engineers in high demand?

Brewery controls engineers are in growing demand due to the increasing automation and technological complexity of brewing facilities. They are needed to design, maintain, and optimize control systems, often requiring knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and process automation. Job opportunities are typically available in regions with a strong brewing industry or manufacturing sector, and experience with industry-specific control software can enhance employability.

What job categories do people searching Brewery Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Brewery Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Brewery Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Brewery Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Brewery Controls Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Controls Engineer Technician- 3rd Shift

Founders Brewing Co

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$28.75 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

SUMMARY
Provide operational expertise and hands-on troubleshooting in the areas of programming, electrical systems and equipment, operational technology, and controls to assist the Brewery Team in the safe and efficient production of World Class Beer in a 24/7 environment. Optimize safe electrical function of all current equipment, to maintain food safe quality production by performing the following duties:
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Works with Maintenance Management to schedule and perform electrical related preventative maintenance, repairs and optimization.
  • Works with Brewery Teams to maintain, optimize and troubleshoot equipment to fulfill business demands.
  • Supports the growth of the maintenance department to build capability in electrical systems and technology understanding of the maintenance technicians
  • Support the documentation of historical data and work documentation within electronic maintenance work order system
  • Ability to assemble, install, trouble-shoot and maintain electrical or electronic wiring and equipment.
  • Maintains electrical equipment to meet regulatory codes at the county, state and federal levels.
  • Performs installation and maintenance work as part of a team of skilled trade workers.
  • Responsible for observing and following all company and OSHA related safety guidelines and programs
  • Professionally represent Founders at trade related events.
  • Some travel is required.

QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Knowledge and ability to troubleshoot, program, integrate and optimize existing systems and PLC's.
  • Industrial troubleshooting experience to assemble, install, test and maintain electrical or electronic wiring, equipment, PLC's and building wiring, using hand, power, and precision measuring tools.
  • Proficient in various PLC, HMI and Robotic programming
  • Experience in commissioning and troubleshooting VFD's and tuning PID's
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Self-starter with ability to support the goals and direction of the brewery maintenance team
  • Ability to read, interpret, and maintain electrical drawings.
  • Must be physically capable of performing work from ladders, scaffolds, lifts and roofs to install, maintain or repair electrical wiring and equipment.
  • Must be available to work all shifts, weekends, on call and overtime.

Education and/or Experience
  • Industrial Maintenance Technician with Electrical concentration with significant experience
  • Associates Degree in a related technical field with experience in control systems
  • Experience in beer, beverage, bottling and/or food manufacturing is a bonus

Compensation & Benefits:
  • Competitive Hourly Range
  • Health, dental, vision, and other coverage for all employees starts date of hire.
  • 401(k) matching
  • Paid time off, volunteer time, and floating holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid sabbaticals with tenure
  • Paid parental leave for all employees