Automation Engineer – Manufacturing Systems & Controls
About The Position
The Automation Resident Engineer is responsible for leading and supporting the implementation, optimization, and maintenance of advanced automation systems across GM manufacturing operations. This role combines expertise in industrial networks, plant floor systems and processes, controls/robotics engineering, and automated tooling to ensure secure, efficient, and reliable production. The resident engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, IT, Cybersecurity, and Equipment Suppliers, to deploy new technologies, troubleshoot issues, and drive continuous improvement. What You’ll Do Automation & Controls Execution Design, implement, and maintain machine control systems (PLC, HMI, CNC, PC-based systems). Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet). Support robotics integration (Fanuc or equivalent) and automated tooling solutions. Network & Cybersecurity Support Manage and secure plant floor networks, switches, and endpoints. Execute cybersecurity controls and maintain compliance with corporate standards. Utilize IT dashboards to monitor and resolve network and security issues. Manufacturing Systems & Process Integration Collaborate on simultaneous engineering activities with ME and suppliers. Diagnose and correct deficiencies in manufacturing processes and controls. Support deployment of error-proofing and safety systems. Project Management & Continuous Improvement Lead new program launches and technology deployments. Document best practices and lessons learned for global standardization. Provide technical training and guidance to personnel of various technical capabilities.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronics, Computer, or related) or equivalent experience.
- 2+ years in automation/controls engineering within a manufacturing environment.
- Hands-on experience with: PLC debug & programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley) HMI programming (TIA Portal, Allen-Bradley) Industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, Profinet)
- Strong understanding of plant floor systems, processes, and controls standards.
- Ability to troubleshoot electrical and control systems, including legacy equipment.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with cybersecurity in manufacturing environments.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and GM Global Controls Architecture.
- Familiarity with Robotics (Fanuc preferred).
- Familiarity with hydraulics, pneumatics, and motion control systems.
Responsibilities
- Design, implement, and maintain machine control systems (PLC, HMI, CNC, PC-based systems)
- Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet)
- Support robotics integration (Fanuc or equivalent) and automated tooling solutions
- Manage and secure plant floor networks, switches, and endpoints
- Execute cybersecurity controls and maintain compliance with corporate standards
- Utilize IT dashboards to monitor and resolve network and security issues
- Collaborate on simultaneous engineering activities with ME and suppliers
- Diagnose and correct deficiencies in manufacturing processes and controls
- Support deployment of error-proofing and safety systems
- Lead new program launches and technology deployments
- Document best practices and lessons learned for global standardization
- Provide technical training and guidance to personnel of various technical capabilities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
