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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Serve Electric

Controls Engineer

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Responsibilities Controls & Automation Engineering: * Design and develop industrial control systems * Program and troubleshoot: * Allen-Bradley PLCs (MicroLogix, CompactLogix, ControlLogix)

New

Opportunity Group, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Rockford, MI

$80K - $125K/yr

Seeking a Controls Engineer with PLC programming, design and troubleshooting experience. This is a ... All these permanent positions offer a variety of exciting projects in the controls automation ...

Opportunity Group, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Rockford, MI · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

Seeking a Controls Engineer with PLC programming, design and troubleshooting experience. This is a ... All these permanent positions offer a variety of exciting projects in the controls automation ...

Axis Automation

Controls Engineer Levels 2/3

Walker, MI · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Controls Engineer, Level 2/3 Axis Automation is looking for career-oriented Controls Engineers to join a dynamic, tight-knit team creating custom factory automation equipment. We're a company with ...

Axis Automation

Controls Engineer Levels 2/3

Walker, MI · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Controls Engineer, Level 2/3 Axis Automation is looking for career-oriented Controls Engineers to join a dynamic, tight-knit team creating custom factory automation equipment. We're a company with ...

Rule 5 Hire

Automation Engineer

Troy, MI

... programming methods (required). * Successful completion of Automation technician II written and ... Associates degree in mechatronics, controls, maintenance technician (preferred). * Strong ...

Rule 5 Hire

Automation Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

... programming methods (required). * Successful completion of Automation technician II written and ... Associates degree in mechatronics, controls, maintenance technician (preferred). * Strong ...

Axis Automation

Senior Controls Engineer

Walker, MI · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer is a high-impact individual contributor who designs, programs, commissions, debugs, and deploys complex automation systems while informally mentoring junior engineers. A ...

Axis Automation

Senior Controls Engineer

Walker, MI

$100K - $125K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer is a high-impact individual contributor who designs, programs, commissions, debugs, and deploys complex automation systems while informally mentoring junior engineers. A ...

Groupe Bel

Controls Engineer

Traverse City, MI

$77K - $100K/yr

Some 'after hours - on call' plant support for controls, automation, or advanced electrical ... Electrical Engineering preferred or equivalent technical certification (5 years additional ...

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Controls And Automation Engineer information

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

AspectControls And Automation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, control systems, or automation engineering; certifications like PLC programming or control system design are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure may be required for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and testing control systems in manufacturing, industrial, or automation settingsDesigning electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry in various industries
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process control industriesWidespread across power, construction, manufacturing, and consulting sectors

Controls And Automation Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems and automation solutions, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems and electrical infrastructure. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in specialization and application areas.

What engineers make $500,000?

Controls and Automation Engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing. High salaries often involve specialized skills in PLC programming, robotics, and system integration, along with working in high-demand environments or managerial positions.

What are Controls and Automation Engineers?

Controls and Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Their main goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability by implementing control systems like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and robotics. They work closely with other engineering disciplines to integrate hardware and software solutions, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure optimal operation of automated processes. These engineers play a vital role in modern industrial settings by enabling advanced automation and data-driven decision-making.

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

To thrive as a Controls and Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial network protocols is essential, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

Will AI replace Automation Engineer?

AI is expected to augment the role of Controls and Automation Engineers by automating routine tasks and data analysis, but it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and maintaining complex automation systems. Engineers will continue to be essential for integrating AI tools, developing control strategies, and ensuring system safety and reliability. Skills in programming, system integration, and understanding industrial processes remain critical in this evolving field.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls and Automation Engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. High salaries often involve specialized skills in PLC programming, robotics, and system integration, along with working in high-demand environments or managerial positions.

What are some common challenges Controls and Automation Engineers face when integrating new systems into existing processes?

One common challenge Controls and Automation Engineers encounter is ensuring that new automation systems are compatible with existing legacy equipment and processes. This often requires careful planning, extensive testing, and sometimes custom interface development to avoid disruptions in production. Additionally, balancing the need for increased automation with maintaining system reliability and safety standards can be complex. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as IT, production, and maintenance, is crucial to address these integration hurdles effectively.

What does a controls and automation engineer do?

A controls and automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes in manufacturing, energy, or other industries. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability of operations. Strong technical skills in electrical, mechanical, and software systems are essential for this role.
What are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:
Controls And Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Serve Electric

Sterling Heights, MI • On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 hours ago

Job description

Controls Engineer at Serve Electric in Sterling Heights, MI (must be local)


Position Summary

Serve Electric is seeking a Controls Engineer to support industrial automation projects from concept through commissioning and service support. This position is responsible for PLC/HMI programming, control system design, startup, troubleshooting, and customer support across a variety of industries including food & beverage, manufacturing, material handling, and process systems.


The ideal candidate is self-motivated, technically competent, customer-focused, and capable of managing multiple projects while maintaining high-quality engineering standards.


Responsibilities

Controls & Automation Engineering:

  • Design and develop industrial control systems
  • Program and troubleshoot:
    • Allen-Bradley PLCs (MicroLogix, CompactLogix, ControlLogix)
    • FactoryTalk View SE/ME
    • Studio 5000
  • Migration of
    • Ignition SCADA systems
    • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Servo systems and motion control
    • External devices calibration or troubleshooting such as sensors, flow meters, level sensors, temperature sensing etc.
  • Develop PLC and HMI software from functional specifications
  • Configure industrial Ethernet networks and communication protocols
  • Integrate third-party equipment and OEM machinery


Electrical Design:

  • Develop and review electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN
  • Specify electrical components and generate bill of materials
  • Support UL 508A control panel design and construction


Project Execution:

  • Participate in project kickoff meetings and customer design reviews
  • Perform system testing and validation
  • Execute startup and commissioning activities at customer facilities.
  • Create documentation including:
    • Functional specifications
    • Sequence of operations
    • IO lists
    • Network architecture drawings
    • Startup reports

Service & Troubleshooting:

  • Provide remote and onsite technical support
  • Diagnose electrical, controls, and communication issues
  • Assist customers with process improvements and system optimization
  • Respond to service calls as required


Customer Relations:

  • Maintain professional communication with customers
  • Identify opportunities for additional automation improvements
  • Support project managers in maintaining project schedules and budgets

Qualifications

Required:

  • Associate or bachelor’s Degree in: Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or related technical field
  • 5+ years of industrial controls experience
  • Experience programming Allen-Bradley PLC systems
  • Experience with industrial networking
  • Solid understanding of electrical AC/Dc theory
  • Safe lockout/tagout (LOTO) practices
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
  • Strong troubleshooting skills
  • Experienced in using multimeter on electrical circuits such as 24VDC, 120VAC, and 480VAC systems
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel


Preferred:

  • Experience with:
    • Ignition SCADA
    • SQL Databases
    • Ethernet/IP
    • Modbus TCP/IP
    • DeviceNet
    • Servo and motion control systems
    • AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN experience
    • UL 508A familiarity
    • Food & Beverage manufacturing experience


Nice to have:

  • Robotics integration experience
  • TIA Portal (Siemens) or C-More HMI experience
  • Familiarity with Profinet, ProfiB, or DeviceNet protocols
  • Prior experience in an industrial or manufacturing environment

Travel Requirements:

  • Willing and able to travel approximately 25% of the time to project sites across the US
  • Mix of local, regional, and occasional overnight travel
  • Commissioning and startup support at customer facilities


Desired:

  • Self-starter who works with minimal supervision
  • Strong organizational and communication skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Customer-focused mindset
  • Professional appearance and conduct
  • Willingness to learn new technologies and processes


Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive Pay: $45-$55 per hour based on experience
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid Time Off
  • Company laptop and cell phone
  • Professional training and development opportunities


About Serve Electric


At Serve Electric, we provide automation, controls engineering, UL 508A panel fabrication, field installation, startup, and service support for industrial customers throughout the Midwest. Our team delivers complete turnkey automation solutions ranging from small machine upgrades to large-scale manufacturing and process control systems.

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