Senior Controls Engineer

Howmet Aerospace • Whitehall, MI

10d

About The Position

The Senior Controls Engineer designs, programs, installs, maintains, and upgrades industrial control systems, including PLC, SCADA, DCS, and robotics. The role integrates AI/ML outputs with operational technology and control loops to enable adaptive automation, edge computing, real-time decision-making, predictive maintenance triggers, anomaly-based shutdowns, and closed-loop process control. The engineer supports system reliability, safety, scalability, and the company’s progress toward Industry 4.0 capabilities.

The position works across plant operations and engineering, applying data-informed analysis and systems thinking to identify improvements, support automation, and drive quantifiable business outcomes. It calls for hands-on technical work, continuous optimization, anticipation of operational issues, use of common systems and best practices, and collaboration with plant leadership and stakeholders. The role also serves as a liaison between the shop floor and engineering, building relationships across teams and shifts and supporting adoption of improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical or Controls Engineering from an accredited institution.
• At least 3 years of experience in manufacturing.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States; employment eligibility verification is required at hire. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

• Strong PLC skills, including Allen-Bradley or Siemens.
• HMI and networking skills.
• Experience with Python or AI edge tools.
• At least 3 years of automation experience in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, program, install, maintain, troubleshoot, optimize, and upgrade industrial control systems, including PLC, SCADA, DCS, and robotics.
• Integrate AI/ML outputs into control systems and loops for adaptive control and edge computing.
• Implement AI-driven capabilities such as predictive maintenance triggers and anomaly-based shutdowns.
• Support system reliability, safety, and scalable automation solutions.
• Use data and quantitative feedback to identify opportunities, evaluate actions, and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with plant leadership and stakeholders to implement improvements identified by AI.
• Apply best practices and standardize systems and components where possible to reduce complexity.
• Serve as a liaison between shop-floor employees and engineering, building rapport across teams and shifts.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage, including FSA and HSA account options.
• Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans with employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution.
• Paid holidays and vacation time, subject to eligibility, accrual, and applicable policies.
• Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs.
• Life insurance and disability coverage plans.
• Optional auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance coverage plans.
• Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior