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Junior Controls Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Axis Automation

Senior Automation Controls Engineer

Walker, MI · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Previous experience mentoring junior engineers. * Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls, or related field. Benefits: * Comprehensive benefits package with eligibility immediately upon ...

Automationtechies

Control Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

You should be comfortable leading or supporting technical teams, mentoring junior engineers, and traveling to customer sites for startup and troubleshooting activities. Reasons you will be excited to ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsJunior Controls Engineer JobsJunior Controls Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Junior Controls Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$29.2K

$62.6K

$95.4K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in Michigan is $62,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $69,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Controls Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering and a solid grasp of automation principles. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and CAD software, along with relevant certifications like Siemens or Rockwell, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable control systems and ensuring smooth operation in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by junior controls engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world industrial environments?

Junior Controls Engineers often find that real-world industrial environments present challenges not commonly encountered in academic settings, such as working with legacy systems, managing tight project deadlines, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. Learning to troubleshoot hardware and software issues in live production environments can be daunting, especially when unexpected problems arise. Additionally, adapting to rigorous safety standards and documentation requirements is crucial. However, support from senior engineers and ongoing training typically help new hires navigate these challenges successfully.

What is a junior controls engineer?

Junior Controls Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used to operate machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshoot system issues, and ensure that automated systems are functioning correctly. Their role often involves hands-on work with electrical components and software, as well as collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Junior Controls Engineer vs Controls Technician?

AspectJunior Controls EngineerControls Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls EngineeringTechnical diploma or associate's degree in electrical or controls technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and troubleshooting of control systems, often in office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of control systems on-site in industrial environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and engineering firmsIndustrial plants, factories, and automation service providers

While both roles involve working with control systems, Junior Controls Engineers focus on design and development, whereas Controls Technicians primarily handle installation and maintenance. The roles often overlap in industry and credentials but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan?

For Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:

Junior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Controls Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,580 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Senior Automation Controls Engineer

Axis Automation

Walker, MI • On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Senior Automation Controls Engineer 

Axis leverages the teamwork of our leading engineers and machine builders to conceptualize, design, integrate, and service factory automation systems for forward-thinking manufacturing customers.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Automation Controls Engineer to lead the design, programming, and commissioning of custom automation systems. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of projects from concept through customer startup while mentoring fellow engineers, collaborating across disciplines, and delivering innovative automation solutions for a diverse range of industries.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, program, and commission custom automation systems using PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and simulation software to deliver high-performing, reliable solutions.
  • Lead controls engineering efforts across multiple projects, taking ownership from concept and design through machine build, customer runoff, installation, and startup.
  • Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Electrical, Build, and Project Management teams to ensure seamless system integration and successful project execution.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation challenges, driving root-cause analysis and implementing long-term solutions.
  • Mentor and support fellow controls engineers by sharing technical knowledge, reviewing code, and promoting engineering best practices.
  • Partner directly with customers and vendors to define technical requirements, select components, and deliver automation solutions that exceed expectations.
  • Continuously improve programming standards, engineering processes, and automation technologies while helping shape the future of our controls team.

Qualifications:

  • 5+ years in controls/automation, with multiple full-project life-cycles delivered.
  • Strong experience programming PLCs, HMIs, and industrial robots.
  • Working knowledge of motion control, safety systems, electrical schematics, and automation system integration.
  • Experience supporting projects through the full lifecycle, from concept and design through commissioning and customer startup.
  • Proven ability to troubleshoot complex automation systems and develop effective technical solutions.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across engineering disciplines and directly with customers.
  • A passion for mentoring others, sharing technical knowledge, and contributing to a collaborative engineering culture.
  • Willing to travel approximately 10% - 20%.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with robot simulation and offline programming.
  • Familiarity with FactoryTalk View, Ignition, or similar HMI platforms.
  • Experience with servo systems, VFDs, vision systems, and machine safety.
  • Previous experience mentoring junior engineers.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls, or related field.

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive benefits package with eligibility immediately upon hire.
  • Collaborative team environment.
  • Opportunities for career growth.
  • Exposure to a wide variety of projects across multiple industries.

Apply