Entry Level Defense Contractor Software Engineer Jobs in Detroit, MI

This Software Engineer role focuses on developing and supporting custom automation software solutions for large-scale aerospace assembly systems used by domestic and international customers. You will contribute across the entire project lifecycle, including design, procurement, fabrication, assembly, integration, commissioning, and production support. The work centers on configuring and developing control systems, such as microprocessor-based servo motion control, heating applications, analog and digital sensors, network communication, and graphical user interfaces, within complex automated manufacturing environments.

• Participate in the full software development life cycle, including specification, design, programming, implementation, integration, commissioning, and debugging for large-scale automated aerospace assembly systems.
• Work in a structured coding environment on projects that involve both software and hardware components, ensuring reliable and maintainable solutions.
• Develop and configure control software using Siemens scripting and Siemens PLC programming tools such as TIA-Step 7 or equivalent, as well as WinCC Advanced, WinCC OA, and WinCC Flex.
• Program and configure automation systems using Allen Bradley Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View ME.
• Configure and manage industrial networks, including network administration, TCP/IP, PROFINET, and Ethernet/IP, to ensure robust communication between system components.
• Develop applications in C, C++, and C# to run in a Windows environment, integrating with automation and control systems.
• Collaborate as an active member of cross-functional teams that include mechanical and electrical design, project management, and manufacturing, contributing software expertise to multidisciplinary projects.
• Work directly with customers to troubleshoot and resolve critical issues within automation systems, providing timely and effective technical support.
• Clearly document and communicate problems encountered, troubleshooting steps taken, corrective actions implemented, root cause analysis, and recommended next steps.
• Manage requirements by breaking them down into discrete, testable tasks that can be validated and tracked throughout the project.
• Apply strong troubleshooting and debugging skills to identify, analyze, and resolve complex software, controls, and automation issues.
• Read and interpret drawings and schematics, including electronics, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic diagrams, to support system understanding and problem resolution.
• Apply knowledge of automation, controls, electronics, and electrical equipment and systems in designing, testing, and modifying programs and applications.
• Use training in computer programming languages, including C, C++, C#, Java, VBScript, Ladder Logic, SCL, and others, to develop and enhance software solutions.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues, coworkers, contractors, and customers, building strategic relationships and working productively across different levels of management and teams.
• Act as a self-starter who can work independently, deliver results, and exercise sound judgment in the absence of explicit direction.
• Perform other related duties as assigned to support project and organizational objectives.

• Bachelor of Science degree in Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of programming experience in C, C++, and C#, with the ability to develop applications that run in a Windows environment.
• Hands-on experience programming in Siemens scripting and Siemens PLC programming (TIA-Step 7) or equivalent platforms, and/or WinCC Advanced, WinCC OA, and WinCC Flex.
• Experience programming in Allen Bradley Studio 5000 and FactoryTalk View ME for industrial automation applications.
• Working knowledge of network administration and configuration, including TCP/IP, PROFINET, and Ethernet/IP.
• Knowledge of industrial automation hardware control system components and their integration into complex automated systems.
• Excellent troubleshooting and debugging skills applied to software, controls, and automation environments.
• Ability to read and understand electronics, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic drawings and schematics.
• Strong understanding of automation, controls, electronics, and electrical equipment and systems.
• Understanding of electronics principles and design as they relate to control systems and automation.
• Training and proficiency in computer programming languages, which may include C, C++, C#, Java, VBScript, Ladder Logic, SCL, and others.
• Understanding of the design, testing, and modification of programs and applications for industrial and manufacturing use.
• Clear and effective communication skills in both written and spoken forms.
• Ability to learn and apply new concepts quickly and effectively in a fast-paced technical environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build strategic relationships with colleagues, coworkers, and contractors.
• Ability to work effectively with different levels of management, team members, and customers.
• Possession of the experience, skills, and attributes appropriate to the assigned level in areas such as PLC controls, GUI development, software development, and product knowledge on an engineering skills matrix.

• Background or exposure to aerospace or aerospace engineering environments and large-scale aerospace automation systems.
• Interest in working on automation systems that directly support aircraft manufacturing and high-profile aerospace programs.
• Experience working on projects that span from concept and design through commissioning and customer delivery.
• Ability to make a visible impact on complex automation projects while expanding technical and leadership capabilities.
• Self-directed mindset with the ability to act independently, prioritize tasks, and deliver results without constant supervision.

This role is based primarily indoors in a combined production and office environment with temperature control and no expected adverse environmental conditions. You will work with advanced industrial automation technologies, including PLCs, control systems, sensors, and networked equipment, in support of large-scale aerospace manufacturing systems. The position follows a standard work schedule; however, overtime may be necessary to meet project deadlines, support required travel, or address emergent conditions. You must be available to work nights, weekends, and holidays when project needs require it. The role involves frequent travel, up to approximately 60% of the time, to customer sites and production facilities for integration, commissioning, troubleshooting, and ongoing support, providing significant exposure to real-world aerospace automation environments.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chesterfield, MI.

The pay range for this position is $75.00 - $95.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Chesterfield,MI.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2026.

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Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

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