1

Controls Engineer Automotive Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Automation Controls Engineer

Flint, MI · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

This position is often the only controls engineer on shift and requires strong independent ... Diagnose and resolve issues on automotive conveyance systems (e.g., skid, skillet, powerandfree ...

Controls Engineer

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Flex-N-Gate is a leading manufacturer and supplier of components for the automotive industry ... Summary The Controls Engineer provides technical support and programming for manufacturing system ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER - (PLC) CONTROLS ENGINEER - AUTOMATION CONTROLS ENGINEER If you are passionate ... HERCO creates new and existing capital equipment for the die-cast sector in the automotive ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Electronic Controls Engineer

Hudson, MI · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Requirements: * BS or MS in Automotive, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science ... Actuator controls (motors, valves). * Embedded C code development. Compensation & Benefits: Pratt ...

Posted today

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer Location: Metro Detroit, MI Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire Compensation ... They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial ...

Controls Engineer

Troy, MI · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Skills/Experience Required: * 3+ years of Controls Engineering/PLC/HMI programming experience ... Prior experience with automotive manufacturing integration and commissioning. * Prior experience ...

Controls Engineer

Lansing, MI · On-site

$84K - $109K/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+ ...

Controls Engineer

Troy, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

Skills/Experience Required: * 3+ years of Controls Engineering/PLC/HMI programming experience ... Prior experience with automotive manufacturing integration and commissioning. * Prior experience ...

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+ ...

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Automotive background is a plus as well as in-plant experience Controls Engineers to design, develop, and optimize automation and control systems that drive the future of automotive manufacturing

Showing results 41-60

Controls Engineer Automotive information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer in the automotive industry?

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Automation Controls Engineer

General Motors

Flint, MI • On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


General Motors rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

General Motors

Based on 306 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Automakers average

Based on 6,272 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description

The Role

The Automation Controls Engineer is a plantembedded, handson engineering role supporting the General Assembly manufacturing operations during offshift hours. This position is often the only controls engineer on shift and requires strong independent technical judgment to troubleshoot, stabilize, and improve production equipment with limited escalation support.

This role supports a mixed environment of conveyance and processdriven systems, including automotive material handling as well as general assembly equipment. In addition to offshift production support, the engineer will participate in planned shutdowns, downtimes, and model change activities, supporting project execution, upgrades, and longterm reliability improvements.

What You'll Do (Responsibilities)

  • Provide handson troubleshooting and support for PLC, drive, and networkbased manufacturing systems during 3rdshift production.
  • Serve as the primary controls engineering escalation point for Skilled Trades during offshift events.
  • Diagnose and resolve issues on automotive conveyance systems (e.g., skid, skillet, powerandfree, EMS/VAC).
  • Support and troubleshoot general assembly equipment.
  • Troubleshoot and support Rockwell PowerFlex VFDs, motor starters, and related drivecontrolled equipment impacting throughput or process stability.
  • Diagnose DeviceNet and EtherNet/IP communication issues affecting production systems.
  • Support, troubleshoot, and modify Siemens HMIs programmed via TIA Portal, including alarm handling, visualization, and operator interface issues.
  • Support and stabilize PIDcontrolled processes, including temperature, airflow, pressure, and flow loops, in coordination with operations.
  • Perform rootcause analysis on recurring equipment or process failures and implement permanent corrective actions.
  • Make sound riskbased decisions during live production regarding intervention, containment, or deferral to dayshift.
  • Support and execute controls projects during planned shutdowns, downtimes, and model launch activities, including installation support, integration, debug, and validation.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, and Skilled Trades to improve equipment reliability, process stability, and maintainability.
  • Maintain and update controls documentation, backups, and standards as required.
  • Champion safety as the highest priority during all troubleshooting and project activities.

Your Skills and Abilities (Required Qualifications)

  • 3+ years of experience as an automation controls engineer, robotics engineer, manufacturing engineer, or robot programmer.
  • Strong technical knowledge and troubleshooting experience with robotics and automation systems in a manufacturing environment.
  • Handson experience with Fanuc 2D and 3D vision sensors.
  • Ability to program, troubleshoot, and modify Rockwell / AllenBradley ControlLogix or GuardLogix PLCs in a production environment.
  • Demonstrated handson experience supporting automotive conveyance systems (e.g., skid, skillet, powerandfree, EMS/VAC).
  • Strong troubleshooting experience with Rockwell PowerFlex VFDs and motor starters.
  • Working knowledge of PID control fundamentals and experience stabilizing temperature, airflow, pressure, or flow processes.
  • Working knowledge of DeviceNet and EtherNet/IP industrial networks and associated diagnostics.
  • This is a 2ndshift Alternative Work Schedule position.
  • Must be able to work off shifts when required.

What Can Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

  • 3+ years of prior automotive or manufacturing experience, particularly in General Assembly manufacturing environments.
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred in an engineering discipline.
  • Experience serving as the primary or sole controls engineer on an offshift.
  • Experience supporting or commissioning largescale conveyance systems.
  • Working knowledge of GM controls standards (e.g., GCCH1, GCCS2).
  • Experience with Fanuc robots or robotintegrated systems.
  • EPLAN experience or certification.
  • Experience with vision systems (e.g., Cognex, VMT, Liberty Reach, Keyence).
GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as onsite. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location on a full-time basis. The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role. This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.

About GM

Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.

Why Join Us

We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.

Benefits Overview

From day one, we're looking out for your well-being-at work and at home-so you can focus on realizing your ambitions. Learn how GM supports a rewarding career that rewards you personally by visiting Total Rewards resources.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.


Working at General Motors


What General Motors employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


General Motors logo

About General Motors

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Motors is a company with global scale and capabilities, headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, with employees around the world. The company employs over 165,000 people, serves six continents, operates across 22 time zones, and has a diverse workforce speaking 75 languages1. GM’s vision is to drive the world forward by pioneering innovations that move and connect people to what matters. The company is working towards an all-electric future with its new Ultium Platform and is pushing transportation options beyond our wildest imaginations with autonomous vehicles. GM is also committed to becoming the most inclusive company in the world.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Detroit, MI, US

Year founded

1908