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Controls Engineer Automotive Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Overview The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Powertrain Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Powertrain Controls Engineer We are currently seeking a Controls Engineer motivated by the ... Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive systems, or other ...

Be Seen First

This role combines hands-on controls engineering expertise with project leadership responsibilities to deliver successful technical solutions for automotive and industrial applications. The ideal ...

New

Controls Engineer

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

... Automotive Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services ... including Mechanical, Quality, Simulation, and Service Part Stamping, Assembly, and Coating.

Process Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · Hybrid

$78K - $101K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or ... Lead, Process Controls Engineer, or related role One (1) year of experience with: Process ...

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Degree in Engineering/Electrical field preferred, or equivalent additional experience * 5-7 years related Controls Engineering manufacturing experience; automotive experience preferred * Allen ...

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI

$78K - $101K/yr

Degree in Engineering/Electrical field preferred, or equivalent additional experience * 5-7 years related Controls Engineering manufacturing experience; automotive experience preferred * Allen ...

Process Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or ... Lead, Process Controls Engineer, or related role One (1) year of experience with: Process ...

Diagnostic Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

We are looking for a Diagnostic Controls Engineer to join our team of innovators pushing the ... Bachelor's Degree in the areas of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive ...

Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer This Controls Engineer role focuses on developing and deploying device-level ... Experience working in automotive powertrain manufacturing environments such as propulsion systems ...

Active Chassis Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Active Chassis Controls Engineer We are currently seeking a Controls Engineer motivated by the ... Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, automotive systems, or other ...

Controls Engineer

Troy, MI

$79K - $102K/yr

SGA is currently seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with a passion for automation and a ... Experience with Automotive, Supply Chain, or Manufacturing industries * Extensive commissioning ...

Controls Engineer

Troy, MI

$79K - $102K/yr

SGA is currently seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with a passion for automation and a ... Experience with Automotive, Supply Chain, or Manufacturing industries * Extensive commissioning ...

Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI

$82K - $106K/yr

The Controls Engineer focuses on leading the research, development, design, testing, and deployment ... As a leading global Tier 1 Automotive and Mobility Supplier, AAM designs, engineers and ...

Controls Engineer

Troy, MI

$79K - $102K/yr

SGA is currently seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with a passion for automation and a ... Experience with Automotive, Supply Chain, or Manufacturing industries * Extensive commissioning ...

Controls Engineer

Caseville, MI

$74K - $95K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, troubleshooting, and ... Automotive, stamping, manufacturing, or industrial automation environments Experience supporting ...

Controls Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

SGA is currently seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with a passion for automation and a ... Experience with Automotive, Supply Chain, or Manufacturing industries * Extensive commissioning ...

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Controls Engineer Automotive information

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer in automotive, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming, HMI systems, automotive industry standards, and tools like Siemens or Allen-Bradley platforms is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure the design and maintenance of reliable, efficient automation systems that meet safety and quality standards in automotive manufacturing.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer Automotive vs Controls Engineer Manufacturing?

AspectControls Engineer AutomotiveControls Engineer Manufacturing
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering; certifications like PLC or automation certifications are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in engineering and certifications in PLC, SCADA, or automation systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing control systems for vehicles, working with automotive suppliers, and manufacturing plantsDeveloping control systems for machinery, production lines, and industrial equipment in factories
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive manufacturing, vehicle electronics, and automotive suppliersUsed across various manufacturing sectors including consumer goods, machinery, and industrial equipment

Both roles involve designing and implementing control systems, but Controls Engineer Automotive focuses on vehicle-related systems within the automotive industry, while Controls Engineer Manufacturing covers a broader range of industrial applications. The credentials, work environment, and industry usage are quite similar, with the main difference being the specific industry focus.

What does a Controls Engineer do in the automotive industry?

A Controls Engineer in the automotive industry designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate manufacturing processes and vehicle functions. Their work involves programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), ensuring machinery operates efficiently, and integrating new technologies into production lines. They also troubleshoot and optimize systems to improve safety, quality, and productivity within automotive plants. Collaborating with other engineers and technicians, Controls Engineers play a vital role in advancing automotive manufacturing and automation.

What are some common challenges a Controls Engineer faces in the automotive industry, and how can they be addressed?

Controls Engineers in the automotive sector often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy systems, ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards, and troubleshooting complex manufacturing equipment. These issues require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. Staying current with industry trends, participating in regular training, and leveraging collaborative tools can help Controls Engineers overcome these challenges and ensure smooth production processes.
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Automotive jobs in Michigan? For Controls Engineer Automotive jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Automotive jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Automotive jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Controls Engineer Automotive jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Controls Engineer Automotive job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Automotive job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Controls Engineer

$76K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Piston Automotive rating

2.6

Company rating: 2.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and improving upon the control systems that are essential to the production processes. Involvement will range from initial project sourcing all the way through SOP +90 days, or as required for corporate employees or launch through EOP plant employees. Both may be required to support implementation of engineering changes for current production products. You will provide your controls expertise to help in tooling design and automation for new projects and process changes driven by product engineering changes. Additionally, responsible for the transfer of all equipment and process documentation to the Production Plant prior to SOP; this includes all OEM equipment documentation (electronic and hard copies of manuals, BOM, drawings, recommended spare parts and recommended PM's). Participating in the development of RFQ's and Equipment Specifications for Capital and Tooling Requirements. Responsible for programming torque control systems and joint development. Selection of error and mistake proofing devices. Supports Engineering Cost Estimator to supply quoted assumptions for the assembly process requirements, capital / tooling investments and direct / indirect labor. Help establish design goals, process and equipment specifications for Controls and Electrical power distribution systems.

Piston Automotive wasn’t just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of execution through a combination of experience, expertise, and a deep seeded passion for what we do. Our assemblies consistently set the standard because our people consistently raise the bar.

Why Piston Automotive?

Competitive Wages, Paid Holidays & Vacation, Medical & Rx Plans, Dental & Vision Plans, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Life & Disability Coverage, 401K with Company Match, Tuition Reimbursement , Vehicle and Product Discounts


  • Analyze and calculate machine performance and requirements utilizing the PLC.
  • Responsible for the planning, coordination, and implementation and tracking of assigned projects.
  • Develop and track capital investment budgets for assigned projects.
  • Main interface with automation and capital equipment vendors for control solutions.
  • Provide controls guidance in equipment selection, overall operations and future expansion.
  • Integrating and networking PC's and PLC's (TCP/IP, EthernetIP)
  • Provide support for Controls related issues, as required, to prevent or minimize production downtime.
  • Drive lean concepts (5S, OEE, Kanban, Visual Factory, TPM etc.) throughout the organization.
  • Implement process improvements to improve overall efficiencies, including automation.
  • Collaborate on all controls related communication internally and externally, including technical presentation, design reviews, capacity analysis, and feasibility studies.
  • Supports Purchasing in evaluation of new suppliers, products and technologies to help maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
  • Benchmarking processes and equipment throughout the industry and incorporating into Piston Standards.
  • Provide guidance to Maintenance Technicians helping develop skillsets and strengthen the team.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • A minimum of 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician.
  • Bachelor's degree (B. A.) in Engineering, Programming
  • 2-4 years of experience in PLC programming (Allen Bradley Micro Logic, SLC 500's, ControlLogix 5000 processors) for Manual Assembly Cells, Automated Assembly Cells and Power & Free conveyor systems.
  • A minimum of 2-4 years programming of Vision Systems (Cognex, DVT, Keyence)
  • 2-4 years of experience HMI programming (AB PanelView and PanelView Plus)
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in JIT, SPD, ILVS and Batch manufacturing systems. Including broadcast analysis from customer trigger through customer installation.
  • 2 years of experience with Manual and Automated Assembly Systems and Technologies, including both mechanical and control systems.
  • A minimum of 2 years of technical experience required (Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, Power Point, AutoCAD, RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500, RS View, ex.).

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