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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

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Plc Controls Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$40 - $42.50/hr

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to support manufacturing controls, assembly, and machining operations for vehicle and powertrain programs. This role will be ...

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Electronics, Mechatronics, Mechanical, or similar * 8+ years' experience as Controls or Automation Engineer * 5+ years' experience in control systems engineering and design in automotive setting * 5+ ...

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Group Automation Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Group Automation Engineer Novi, Michigan, US Group Summary: Magna is an innovative leader in the ... Ensure seamless integration of robotics systems with PLC controls, vision systems, and ...

New

Group Automation Engineer Novi, Michigan, US Group Summary: Magna is an innovative leader in the ... Ensure seamless integration of robotics systems with PLC controls, vision systems, and ...

New

Lead Automation Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$97K - $143K/yr

... controls and robotic programming expertise Attend Trade shows and seminars to stay current with automation technology Qualifications: Required Basic Qualifications: Minimum Bachelors Degree in ...

Lead Automation Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$97K - $143K/yr

Troubleshooting support for existing automation with controls and robotic programming expertise * Attend Trade shows and seminars to stay current with automation technology Qualifications: Required ...

Automation Controls Engineer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer Overview / Summary We are seeking an Automation Controls Engineer to support manufacturing electrical and controls engineering activities for assembly, machining, tooling ...

... programming structures to ensure scalability and consistency. * Support automation project ... Ensure seamless integration of robotics systems with PLC controls, vision systems, and ...

... programming structures to ensure scalability and consistency. * Support automation project ... Ensure seamless integration of robotics systems with PLC controls, vision systems, and ...

Summary: The Automation Applications Engineer leads the installation and launch of automation ... Serve as the technical interface with Adient central and Business Unit IT teams to support controls ...

Showing results 41-60

Controls And Automation Engineer information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$45.5K

$97.2K

$139.1K

How much do controls and automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in Detroit, MI is $97,201.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,700.00 and $109,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controls and automation engineer?

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?

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.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI?

For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,201 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Automation Engineer - Warehouse Automation

Adient

Plymouth, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Identify automation opportunities and evaluate their feasibility across manufacturing and intralogistics operations.

  • Develop and implement standards for automation equipment and processes, including testing, validation, and installation.

  • Lead the deployment of autonomous warehouse and fulfillment technologies, ensuring safe integration with existing systems and processes.


Adient rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
Summary:
The Automation Engineer serves as the central technical expert responsible for identifying automation opportunities across manufacturing and intralogistics operations. The role evaluates feasibility, leads industrialization, and develops scalable automation standards. This individual provides technical leadership to ensure automation systems deployed in JIT, seat structure assembly, warehouse distribution, and fulfillment operations support Adient's safety, quality, delivery, and financial objectives, including solutions such as autonomous forklifts, autonomous mobile robots, and emerging humanoid robotic applications.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Identify automation opportunities that can be standardized and scaled across multiple processes and plants.
  • Assess the technical feasibility of proposed automation projects.
  • Develop industrialization strategies for automation solutions using the appropriate mix of internal and external resources.
  • Develop, maintain, and enforce equipment and process standards, including specifications, sourcing, design reviews, validation, and installation.
  • Serve as the primary interface with Adient central and business unit IT teams.
  • Provide technical support for automation-related issues across JIT and seat structures plants.
  • Identify, qualify, and develop equipment suppliers while building strong partnerships to ensure consistent execution of standards.
  • Drive supplier performance reviews, provide feedback, and improve execution.
  • Coach AME teams on equipment standards, processes, and execution expectations.
  • Define requirements for refurbishment and redeployment of used equipment.
  • Provide equipment cost estimating for new program quoting and strategic projects.
  • Identify, evaluate, and test emerging technologies for assembly and material handling applications, including robotics, vision systems, augmented reality, and artificial intelligence.
  • Lead the evaluation, specification, testing, and deployment of autonomous warehouse distribution and fulfillment technologies including autonomous forklifts, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), goods-to-person systems, robotic picking, and humanoid robots, ensuring safe integration with plant material flow, warehouse management systems, and operating processes.

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • Minimum of five years of industry experience; automotive interiors experience preferred.
  • Proven ability to identify automation opportunities and lead projects from concept through implementation.
  • Experience installing and commissioning automated equipment, including robotic assembly cells and test systems.
  • Experience with warehouse distribution and fulfillment automation is strongly preferred, including autonomous forklifts, autonomous mobile robots, robotic material handling, and integration with warehouse execution or warehouse management systems.
  • Software or application development desired
  • Experience with seating products desired

Technical Skills:
  • Knowledge of PLC programming and troubleshooting (Allen Bradley preferred)
  • Familiarity with controls systems and other programming languages such as C++
  • HMI programming
  • Robot cell design and programming
  • Industrial networking
  • System specification, ordering, run-off, installation, and qualification
  • Capital equipment budget planning and tracking.
  • Strong computer skills with ability to quickly learn new software/applications.
  • Ability to draw two dimensional layouts in CAD software.
  • Analytical problem solving
  • Project management, including plan development and execution.
  • Ability to interact with the equipment controls team and IT groups to understand network topology.
  • Knowledge of autonomous material handling systems including autonomous forklifts, AMRs/AGVs, and robotic pallet movement in warehouse and distribution environments.
  • Experience integrating mobile robotics and fulfillment automation with WMS/WES/MES platforms, fleet management software, barcode/RFID systems, and plant IT infrastructure.
  • Understanding of navigation, traffic management, safety zoning, and risk assessment for robots operating in dynamic environments shared with people and industrial vehicles.
  • Ability to evaluate emerging robotics platforms, including humanoid robots, for material handling, kitting, picking, line-side delivery, and other fulfillment use cases.

PRIMARY LOCATION
Central Tech Unit Plymouth MI

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