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Controls Engineering Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

The Controls Engineering Manager will be involved with managing day-to-day tactical project execution, assessing and growing team capabilities, working across other engineering disciplines and ...

The Controls Engineering Manager will be involved with managing day-to-day tactical project execution, assessing and growing team capabilities, working across other engineering disciplines and ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site +1

$121K - $182K/yr

Dematic Corp. has an immediate opening for a Controls Engineering Manager to lead a team of project execution engineers within our Lifecycle Services and Solutions Modernizations & Upgrades ...

Controls Engineering Manager

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site +1

$121K - $182K/yr

Dematic Corp. has an immediate opening for a Controls Engineering Manager to lead a team of project execution engineers within our Lifecycle Services and Solutions Modernizations & Upgrades ...

Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, service, and project management teams * Ensure controls systems meet customer specifications, safety standards, and internal quality ...

Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, service, and project management teams * Ensure controls systems meet customer specifications, safety standards, and internal quality ...

Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineering Manager Supervisory responsibilities : No Summary/objective : Specialty Tooling Systems is seeking a Controls Engineer to help with the design, development, and implementation of ...

Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineering Manager Supervisory responsibilities : No Summary/objective : Specialty Tooling Systems is seeking a Controls Engineer to help with the design, development, and implementation of ...

Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, service, and project management teams * Ensure controls systems meet customer specifications, safety standards, and internal quality ...

The Controls Engineering Supervisor is responsible for driving technical and process excellence ... Manage the design, build, and verification of production test equipment through external and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineering Manager information

See Michigan salary details

$47.9K

$84.2K

$114.2K

How much do controls engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineering manager in Michigan is $84,173.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,800.00 and $94,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Controls Engineering Manager vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Engineering ManagerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; often with leadership experienceBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are common
Work EnvironmentOversees teams in manufacturing, automation, or industrial settings; strategic planningDesigns, develops, and tests control systems; hands-on technical work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, automation, and process industries for leadership rolesCommon in industrial automation, robotics, and manufacturing sectors

The Controls Engineering Manager focuses on leading teams, strategic planning, and overseeing control system projects, while Controls Engineers handle the technical design, development, and implementation of control systems. Both roles require relevant engineering credentials and industry experience, but the manager role emphasizes leadership and project management.

How does a Controls Engineering Manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Controls Engineering Manager, you will frequently collaborate with cross-functional teams such as mechanical engineers, project managers, software developers, and operations staff. Your role involves aligning control system requirements with overall project goals, coordinating design reviews, and ensuring seamless integration of controls with mechanical and electrical systems. Regular meetings and open communication are essential to address challenges, delegate tasks, and track progress, making collaboration a vital aspect of delivering successful automation projects.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineering Manager, you need a solid background in electrical or controls engineering, experience in automation systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial networks, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) or PMP are often required. Strong leadership, project management, and effective communication skills are crucial for managing teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These capabilities ensure successful delivery of complex automation projects, team productivity, and adherence to safety and quality standards.

What is a Controls Engineering Manager?

A Controls Engineering Manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the design, development, and implementation of control systems used to operate machinery and processes in industries like manufacturing, energy, and automation. They lead a team of engineers, manage projects, ensure compliance with industry standards, and collaborate with other departments to optimize operational efficiency. The role often involves troubleshooting, budgeting, and staying updated on the latest automation technologies to improve system performance and reliability.
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Controls Engineering Manager jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Controls Engineering Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineering Manager job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,173 per year, or $40.5 per hour.
Controls Engineering Manager

Controls Engineering Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI

$80K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Electrical Controls Engineering Manager

West Michigan (Relocation Available)
Full-Time | Direct Hire
Minimal to No Travel

A well-established custom automation and industrial systems integrator is seeking an Electrical Controls Engineering Manager to lead and support a growing controls engineering team. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys staying technical while guiding engineers through complex, customer-driven automation projects.
The company specializes in custom automated systems for automotive and truck manufacturing, including adhesive lines, bonding systems, and robotic automation.

Why This Role Stands Out
  • Lead a team of Controls Engineers and Test Engineers
  • Hands-on programming — not a desk-only management role
  • Minimal to no travel
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Stable organization with ~100 employees
  • Strong, repeat customer base in automotive and truck manufacturing
What You’ll Be Doing
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Controls and Robot Engineers
  • Oversee PLC, HMI, and robotic control system design for custom automation projects
  • Review and approve programs, safety layouts, schematics, and documentation
  • Act as the technical escalation point for complex automation challenges
  • Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Project Management, and Sales
  • Interface directly with customers on technical reviews and project execution
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and regulatory expectations
Technology Environment
  • PLCs: Allen-Bradley (primary)
  • Robotics: Fanuc (primary), some ABB
  • Automation Focus:
    • Adhesive and bonding systems
    • Automotive and truck body components
    • Robotic material handling and assembly
What We’re Looking For
  • 10+ years of automation controls experience
  • Prior leadership or team-lead experience in a custom automation environment
  • Strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming background
  • Fanuc robot programming experience (ABB a plus)
  • Comfortable being hands-on when projects demand it
  • Customer-facing experience and strong communication skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or equivalent experience
Reporting Structure
  • Reports to the Managing Director, with direct visibility to executive leadership
Location & Relocation
  • Preference for Midwest-based candidates
  • Relocation assistance is available


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.