Senior Controls Engineer

Specialty Tooling Systems•Grand Rapids, MI

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Specialty Tooling Systems is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and implementation of advanced automation systems and custom machinery. This role is responsible for driving technical excellence across projects, from concept through commissioning, while mentoring team members and serving as a key technical resource for both internal teams and customers. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in controls systems and thrives in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment focused on delivering high-precision, state-of-the-art equipment.

Requirements

7+ years of controls engineering experience in automation or custom machinery
Demonstrated ability to lead technical aspects of projects independently
Strong experience with Rockwell Automation (Studio 5000 & FactoryTalk View)
Strong experience with Industrial robotics (FANUC preferred)
Strong experience with Automated assembly systems and machine integration
Proven expertise in PLC programming, motion control, and system integration
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in complex automated systems
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including customer-facing experience
High attention to detail and commitment to quality
Ability to maintain confidentiality on sensitive projects
Proficient in 2D electrical CAD (AutoCAD Electrical preferred)
Valid driver’s license; ability to travel as required
Legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (or equivalent industry experience)
Additional/Advanced experience with Rockwell platforms (GuardLogix, ControlLogix, FactoryTalk View)
Experience with additional platforms (Siemens, Omron)
Robotics: FANUC, ABB, MOTOMAN
Robotic Simulation: Roboguide, Robot Studio, MotoSim, and Process Simulate
Experience developing controls standards or leading continuous improvement initiatives
Prior experience mentoring or providing technical leadership to engineering teams
Artificial Intelligence tools (ChatGPT, Claude, local LLMs)
Custom (Python, VBA)

Responsibilities

Lead controls engineering efforts across the full project lifecycle: concept development, design, build, validation, customer acceptance, and onsite commissioning
Serve as a technical lead on projects, guiding architecture decisions, standards, and best practices
Define controls architecture and make key technical decisions for assigned projects
Lead the design and development of complex control systems including PLCs, motion control, robotics, vision systems, and HMI/SCADA platforms
Program, integrate, and troubleshoot systems involving Rockwell Automation platforms, robotics, and advanced automation technologies
Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical engineering, project management, and manufacturing teams to deliver integrated solutions
Serve as primary technical point of contact for customers on controls-related topics
Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis for system performance, reliability, and quality issues
Identify project risks early and drive mitigation strategies in collaboration with project managers
Contribute to project estimating, concept development, and system architecture definition
Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to controls standards, documentation, and development processes
Establish and enforce controls standards and best practices
Mentor and develop junior engineers through technical guidance, code reviews, and best practice sharing
Stay current with emerging technologies and industry best practices; apply knowledge to improve solutions and processes