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Lead Controls Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

HS Inc.

Controls Engineer - Level 3

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Lead controls package design for medium and large machines, ensuring packages are safe, accurate ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Computer Engineering, or related field * 5+ years of ...

Axis Automation

Lead Controls Electrician

Walker, MI · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Lead Controls Electrician Axis Automation leverages the teamwork of our leading engineers and machine builders to conceptualize, design, integrate, deploy and service factory automation systems for ...

Axis Automation

Lead Controls Electrician

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Lead Controls Electrician Axis Automation leverages the teamwork of our leading engineers and machine builders to conceptualize, design, integrate, deploy and service factory automation systems for ...

General Motors

Process Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Collaborate with senior and lead controls engineers on technical direction and best practices to ensure high-quality project execution. * Design, review, and troubleshoot electrical control systems ...

Axis Automation

Lead Controls Electrician

Walker, MI · On-site

$32 - $40/hr

Lead Controls Electrician Axis Automation leverages the teamwork of our leading engineers and machine builders to conceptualize, design, integrate, deploy and service factory automation systems for ...

General Motors

Process Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Collaborate with senior and lead controls engineers on technical direction and best practices to ensure high-quality project execution. * Design, review, and troubleshoot electrical control systems ...

General Motors

Senior Controls Engineer

Lake Orion, MI · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Lead controls engineering strategy and execution for manufacturing systems within a vehicle assembly facility. * Serve as the technical authority for PLC, robotics, and network architecture standards.

New

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI

$45 - $55/hr

Controls Engineer This Controls Engineer role focuses on the design, construction, integration ... Lead the successful launch of new equipment and systems, ensuring they meet program timing ...

Anonymous Employer

Controls Engineer

Hastings, MI · On-site

$41.83 - $52.88/hr

Lead electrical and controls design for PLCs, HMIs, safety systems, robotics, and vision‑based applications * Define, implement, and maintain a cohesive controls engineering strategy supporting ...

PIC/MER

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

CONTROLS ENGINEER, WARREN, MI RESPONSIBILITIES We are looking for a candidate to provide Controls ... Identify, communicate, and track technical issues, risks, and gaps to the program lead * Support ...

Confidential

Controls Engineer

Hastings, MI

$87K - $110K/yr

Lead electrical and controls design for PLCs, HMIs, safety systems, robotics, and vision‑based applications * Define, implement, and maintain a cohesive controls engineering strategy supporting ...

Aampower

Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Lead and mentor co-ops, interns, entry level engineers. * Support plants and their controls teams as required. * Manages supplier development and delivery. * All other duties as assigned. Required ...

PIC/MER

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

CONTROLS ENGINEER, WARREN, MI RESPONSIBILITIES We are looking for a candidate to provide Controls ... Identify, communicate, and track technical issues, risks, and gaps to the program lead * Support ...

Transform Automotive

Controls Engineer

Utica, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

The Controls Engineer will focus on developing and supporting equipment availability and ... Take lead in supporting machine failures through the maintenance escalation process. I.E ...

Piston Automotive

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Overview The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and ... Lead root cause analysis for systemic and intermittent issues * Selection and integration of error ...

PIC/MER

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

CONTROLS ENGINEER, WARREN, MI RESPONSIBILITIES We are looking for a candidate to provide Controls ... Identify, communicate, and track technical issues, risks, and gaps to the program lead * Support ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Controls Engineer JobsLead Controls Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Lead Controls Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$37K

$107.9K

$157.3K

How much do lead controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead controls engineer in Michigan is $107,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,300.00 and $117,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead controls engineer?

A lead controls engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing control systems for industrial automation and manufacturing processes. They often coordinate teams, troubleshoot system issues, and use tools like PLCs and SCADA software to ensure operational efficiency and safety.

What are Lead Controls Engineers?

Lead Controls Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of control systems used in manufacturing, automation, or industrial processes. They lead teams to ensure that machinery and equipment operate efficiently, safely, and in accordance with industry standards. Their work often involves programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineering disciplines. Additionally, they play a key role in project management, technical leadership, and client communication.

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

To thrive as a Lead Controls Engineer, you need deep expertise in control systems design, automation, and electrical engineering, usually backed by a bachelor's degree in engineering and several years of relevant experience. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and often certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or specific vendor certifications are typically required. Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving abilities, along with effective communication, distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the successful delivery of complex automation projects, leading teams, and maintaining operational reliability.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. Lead Controls Engineers in industries like automation or manufacturing may also reach this level with significant expertise and project responsibilities.

What is the difference between Lead Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectLead Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; often requires experience in project managementBachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLead projects, coordinate teams, oversee control system design and implementationAssist in control system design, programming, and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process industries, often in leadership rolesManufacturing, automation, industrial facilities, typically as technical staff

The main difference between a Lead Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in responsibility and experience. The Lead Controls Engineer oversees projects and manages teams, requiring more experience and leadership skills, while the Controls Engineer focuses on technical tasks like system design and programming. Both roles require similar technical credentials but differ in scope and seniority.

What are some typical challenges a Lead Controls Engineer faces when managing multidisciplinary project teams?

As a Lead Controls Engineer, you’ll often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software backgrounds. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these disciplines to integrate control systems seamlessly with other engineering components. You’ll also need to balance project timelines while troubleshooting technical issues that may arise during commissioning and testing phases. Strong leadership and project management skills are essential for aligning team efforts, managing resources, and delivering robust, compliant solutions on schedule.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Lead Controls Engineers, a specialized role within electrical engineering, can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation and control systems, and leadership responsibilities. Such high salaries are typically found in senior positions, highly specialized industries, or in regions with high living costs, often supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Lead Controls Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior executive roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires a strong background in control systems, programming, and project management.
What are popular job titles related to Lead Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Lead Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lead Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Controls Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Lead Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Controls Engineer job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,890 per year, or $51.9 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 8 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

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