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Controls Engineer

Battle Creek, Michigan, United States

On-site | Full Time

$90,000 annually

Direct Hire Opportunity

We are hiring for one of our trusted clients seeking a Controls Engineer to support manufacturing operations, process development, and continuous improvement initiatives within a fast-paced automotive manufacturing environment. This full-time opportunity offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and paid holidays.

Position Overview:

The Controls Engineer will play a key role in supporting controls systems, stamping operations, manufacturing optimization, equipment support, and new technology implementation. The ideal candidate will bring strong PLC experience, hands-on troubleshooting abilities, and a collaborative approach to project management and process improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Process & Technology Development

• Develop and implement manufacturing processes, tooling, equipment, controls, and methods to optimize cost, quality, and efficiency

• Support prototype development and production builds

• Evaluate and implement new manufacturing technologies

• Participate in product design reviews to improve manufacturability and cost efficiency

• Serve as a technical resource for process improvements and troubleshooting initiatives

• Support continuous improvement activities across manufacturing operations

Controls & Manufacturing Support

• Troubleshoot and support Siemens and Mitsubishi PLC systems

• Support press room operations, tooling, and equipment performance

• Assist with preventive maintenance activities and equipment upgrades

• Coordinate equipment installations and vendor activities

• Support implementation of Poka Yoke systems and manufacturing controls

• Partner with Quality and Production teams to maintain process integrity

Project Management & Communication

• Lead cross-functional manufacturing projects

• Act as primary contact for vendors regarding technical requirements and project timelines

• Provide technical updates and project communication to stakeholders

• Develop operating procedures and conduct training as needed

• Ensure tooling and equipment meet timing, quality, and production expectations

Manufacturing Optimization

• Conduct manufacturing studies related to cost, quality, and inventory optimization

• Evaluate feasibility of new products, materials, and processes

• Recommend improvements related to labor, tooling, equipment, and manufacturing flow

• Support launch activities and pre-production program development

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related field preferred

• 4–5 years of manufacturing engineering or controls engineering experience preferred

• Candidates without a degree should possess 7–8 years of relevant experience

• Automotive manufacturing experience strongly preferred

• Experience with metal stamping, press room operations, and metal forming equipment required

• Strong project management and vendor coordination experience

• Hands-on troubleshooting and continuous improvement experience required

Technical Skills:

• PLC troubleshooting and programming experience with Siemens and Mitsubishi required

• Allen Bradley / Rockwell experience preferred

• Knowledge of PFMEA, Control Plans, Process Flow, GD&T, and IATF 16949 requirements

• Experience with prototype builds and manufacturing process development

• Electrical troubleshooting and stamping tool experience are a plus

• Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office skills preferred

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving ability

• Excellent communication and organizational skills

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset

• Willingness to be on call as needed

Reliance One, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.