Controls Engineer

Valknut • Auburn Hills, MI

5d • Onsite

About The Position

This contract role focuses on designing, programming, and commissioning industrial control systems for projects across Michigan. The Controls Engineer ensures systems meet performance, safety, and customer specifications, working closely with project managers, mechanical engineers, and electricians to translate functional requirements into robust control solutions and detailed documentation. The role supports timely project delivery, technical issue resolution, system start-up, and handover to end users.

The position includes developing PLC programs, designing control panels, creating electrical schematics and documentation, configuring HMI/SCADA systems, and providing on-site troubleshooting and commissioning support at customer facilities. The role also contributes technical input to design reviews, change requests, and improvement initiatives throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Controls Engineer or in a similar role on industrial automation projects.
• Strong hands-on PLC programming skills with Allen-Bradley (RSLogix/Studio 5000) and Siemens platforms.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or EPLAN for control panel design and electrical schematic development.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Experience developing and configuring HMI/SCADA systems on common platforms such as FactoryTalk, WinCC, or Ignition.
• Solid understanding of industrial control hardware, sensors, drives, and communication networks.
• Ability to troubleshoot control systems systematically and resolve issues under time constraints during commissioning.
• Willingness and ability to work on-site at customer facilities in Michigan for installation and start-up as required.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation, or a related technical field preferred; a technical diploma or equivalent experience in industrial controls and automation may be considered with a strong project background.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to customer sites within Michigan as project needs dictate.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with safety PLCs, safety circuits, and relevant safety standards.
• Familiarity with VFDs, motion control, and servo systems integration.
• Background in automotive, manufacturing, or process industry environments.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, and Modbus.
• Experience preparing as-built documentation and supporting training for maintenance and operations teams.
• Relevant vendor or industry certifications, such as Rockwell Automation or Siemens certifications.

Responsibilities

• Develop and modify PLC programs, primarily using Allen-Bradley and Siemens platforms, for new systems, upgrades, and retrofits.
• Design control panels, including layouts, component selection, and wiring details, using AutoCAD or EPLAN.
• Create and maintain electrical schematics and control system documentation to project and client standards.
• Configure and develop HMI/SCADA screens, tags, and alarms for operation and monitoring.
• Perform on-site control system troubleshooting, diagnostics, and corrective actions during installation and commissioning.
• Conduct system start-up, testing, and validation to ensure compliance with functional specifications and safety requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and field technicians to resolve integration issues and support project delivery.
• Provide technical input for design reviews, change requests, and improvement initiatives throughout the project lifecycle.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Associate degree