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Controls Engineering Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer Manager

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Manage controls engineering workload, project assignments, and staffing resources to ensure timely completion of projects and support activities. * Conduct regular performance reviews, establish ...

Controls Engineer

Rockford, MI · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

Opportunities range from entry-level to Lead Controls and Engineering Manager roles. Most jobs require minimal travel. Responsibilities: * Provide electrical solutions for automation equipment.

Controls Engineer

Bridgman, MI · On-site +1

$78K - $101K/yr

This position reports to Controls Engineering Manager. Key Responsibilities * Controls Engineer will work on various stages of automation and control projects including: electrical design, PLC ...

Engineering Manager POSITION SUMMARY The Engineering Manager is responsible for driving engineering ... Through a team of manufacturing & controls engineers, this role establishes engineering standards ...

Controls Engineer

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

... Controls Engineer due to a continued growth/new business ... This position will report to the Senior Engineering Manager who is looking to begin the interview ...

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Showing results 21-40

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.
Senior Controls Engineer

Senior Controls Engineer

Specialty Tooling Systems

Grand Rapids, MI • On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job title: Senior Controls Engineer
Reports to: Controls Engineering Manager
Supervisory responsibilities: No
Summary/objective: Specialty Tooling Systems is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems and custom machinery. This role is responsible for driving technical excellence across projects, from concept through commissioning, while mentoring team members and serving as a key technical resource for both internal teams and customers.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in controls systems and thrives in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment focused on delivering high-precision, state-of-the-art equipment.
Essential functions:
  • Lead controls engineering efforts across the full project lifecycle: concept development, design, build, validation, customer acceptance, and onsite commissioning
  • Serve as a technical lead on projects, guiding architecture decisions, standards, and best practices
  • Define controls architecture and make key technical decisions for assigned projects
  • Lead the design and development of complex control systems including PLCs, motion control, robotics, vision systems, and HMI/SCADA platforms
  • Program, integrate, and troubleshoot systems involving Rockwell Automation platforms, robotics, and advanced automation technologies
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical engineering, project management, and manufacturing teams to deliver integrated solutions
  • Serve as primary technical point of contact for customers on controls-related topics
  • Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for system performance, reliability, and quality issues
  • Identify project risks early and drive mitigation strategies in collaboration with project managers
  • Contribute to project estimating, concept development, and system architecture definition
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to controls standards, documentation, and development processes
  • Establish and enforce controls standards and best practices
  • Mentor and develop junior engineers through technical guidance, code reviews, and best practice sharing
  • Stay current with emerging technologies and industry best practices; apply knowledge to improve solutions and processes

Required competency, education, and experience:
  • 7+ years of controls engineering experience in automation or custom machinery
  • Demonstrated ability to lead technical aspects of projects independently
  • Strong experience with:
    • Rockwell Automation (Studio 5000 & FactoryTalk View)
    • Industrial robotics (FANUC preferred)
    • Automated assembly systems and machine integration
  • Proven expertise in PLC programming, motion control, and system integration
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in complex automated systems
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including customer-facing experience
  • High attention to detail and commitment to quality
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality on sensitive projects
  • Proficient in 2D electrical CAD (AutoCAD Electrical preferred)
  • Valid driver's license; ability to travel as required
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (or equivalent industry experience)
  • Additional/Advanced experience with:
    • Rockwell platforms (GuardLogix, ControlLogix, FactoryTalk View)
    • Robotics: FANUC, ABB, MOTOMAN
    • Robotic Simulation: Roboguide, Robot Studio, MotoSim, and Process Simulate
  • Experience with additional platforms (Siemens, Omron)
  • Other Supporting experience with:
    • Artificial Intelligence tools (ChatGPT, Claude, local LLMs)
    • Custom (Python, VBA)
  • Experience developing controls standards or leading continuous improvement initiatives
  • Prior experience mentoring or providing technical leadership to engineering teams

Work environment: Office setting within a manufacturing environment, with regular interaction on the production floor.
Physical demands:
  • Ability to sit for extended periods
  • Ability to view detailed work at close range
  • Manual dexterity to work with small components
  • Ability to lift 20 pounds

Position type and expected hours of work: Full time
Travel: 0-30% potential travel associated with role as needed.
  • Travel may require:
    • Domestic and international travel
    • Air travel
    • Overnight stays (typically up to 2-week intervals for large projects)

Compensation/Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Company-paid and voluntary life insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Education reimbursement
  • Paid vacation and holidays
  • Flexible spending accounts

Other duties: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs.
STS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. STS does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need