Controls Engineer
$95000-115000 / year
Permanent
Permanent
Job ID:
60460086
Job Description
Controls Software Design Engineer – Machine Automation
Location: Lansing, MI
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Travel: Approximately 5%
Employment Type: Direct Hire
Travel: Approximately 5%
Compensation: $100-120k, based on experience
A growing industrial equipment manufacturer is seeking a Controls Software Design Engineer to design, program, debug, and commission machine control systems supporting high-volume manufacturing.
This is a hands-on controls engineering role responsible for projects from initial design and PLC/HMI programming through machine build, startup, debugging, run-off, and customer acceptance.
What You’ll Do
- Design and develop control systems for automated machinery and machine tools.
- Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and machine control systems.
- Develop electrical control layouts and select control components.
- Create and maintain electrical drawings and project documentation.
- Lead controls design reviews with mechanical and project engineering teams.
- Support machine build, electrical checkout, startup, debugging, and run-off.
- Troubleshoot controls, electrical, and automation issues.
- Support commissioning and equipment startup at customer facilities.
- Work directly with engineering, manufacturing, service, and customers.
- Identify new controls and automation technologies for future machine designs.
Must Have Qualifications
- Must Have: 5+ years of experience in Controls Engineering, Controls Design, Automation Engineering, or Machine Controls.
- Must Have: Hands-on PLC programming and troubleshooting experience.
- Must Have: Experience designing and commissioning controls for machine tools, automated machinery, industrial automation, or manufacturing equipment.
- Experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and/or FANUC PLC/control platforms.
- Experience programming and troubleshooting HMI systems.
- Ability to read and develop electrical schematics and control drawings.
- Experience supporting machine startup, debugging, commissioning, and run-off.
Highly Preferred Qualifications
- Highly Preferred: Experience with Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLC programming.
- Highly Preferred: Experience with AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, and/or SolidWorks.
- Highly Preferred: Background in machine tools, custom automation, automotive manufacturing, or high-volume production equipment.
- Experience with FANUC controls, robotics, or CNC/machine control systems is a plus.
- Experience supporting automotive, powertrain, or internal combustion engine manufacturing is a plus.
- Bachelor's degree in Controls Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field is preferred.
Ideal Background
Strong candidates may come from machine builders, custom automation integrators, automotive equipment manufacturers, CNC/machine tool companies, robotics integrators, or other industrial automation environments.
This position is primarily based in Lansing, MI, with approximately 5% domestic travel for commissioning and customer support.
Meet Your Recruiter
Steve Stabley
Principal Recruiter
Steve Stabley is a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with close to 30 years of technical recruiting experience, including more than 23 years with Sterling. Throughout his career, Steve has built deep expertise in the automation and manufacturing industries, helping clients identify and hire highly skilled engineering and technical talent.
Steve has successfully sourced and placed engineers and technicians with many of the leading automation companies throughout the greater Chicagoland area. His industry knowledge, long-standing relationships, and understanding of technical hiring needs allow him to connect qualified candidates with opportunities where they can make an immediate and lasting impact.
About Lansing, MI
Ready to embark on a new career adventure in Lansing, Michigan? This vibrant city, nestled in the heart of the Great Lakes State, offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. With its bustling downtown, diverse culinary scene, and a thriving arts community including the Broad Art Museum and Wharton Center for Performing Arts, Lansing provides endless opportunities for personal and professional growth. Home to the Michigan State Spartans, the city exudes a lively college town atmosphere and is a haven for sports enthusiasts. Explore the picturesque River Trail, catch a show at the historic Lansing Lugnuts Stadium, or simply enjoy the charm of this welcoming Midwestern community. Check out our job listings today and discover the exciting career possibilities waiting for you in Lansing!