Automation Controls Electrical Engineer

Spherion Staffing and Recruiting; Midland (MI); On-site; USD 72,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Spherion Staffing and Recruiting is seeking an Automation Controls Electrical Engineer for an on-site role in Bay City, MI. The position offers full-time hours with a standard Monday–Friday schedule and a compensation range of $72,000–$85,000 per year, including built‑in overtime.

You will design automation control systems, specify components, program PLCs, and generate detailed AutoCAD schematics while collaborating with production teams to ensure smooth integration of automated equipment.

Qualifications

• Education: A four‑year degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field is preferred (equivalent practical experience combined with a foundational degree/diploma will also be considered).
• Experience Level: Open to candidates with a minimum of 3 years of hands‑on experience, OR recent graduates with relevant co‑op/internship experience, as well as mid‑to‑senior engineers looking for a stable transition.
• Core Technical Competencies: Proficiency in drafting and interpreting industrial prints using AutoCAD (utilized for nearly all design work).
• Core Technical Competencies: Familiarity with hardware and software from major PLC platforms such as Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, GE, or Omron (a foundational understanding with an eagerness to expand skills is welcome).
• Core Technical Competencies: Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, IO-Link, PROFIBUS).

Responsibilities

• Design and develop automation control systems, pneumatic layouts, and operator interface panels.
• Select, specify, and integrate electrical, safety, and control components.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, safety elements, and network communications.
• Interpret, apply, and ensure compliance with industry standards and customer specifications.
• Create and update detailed industrial electrical schematics using AutoCAD.
• Partner with production and technical teams to ensure seamless machine integration and performance.

Skills

AutoCAD drafting

Electrical schematics

Industrial safety standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

GE

Omron

Job description

Automation Controls Electrical Engineer

Location: Bay City, MI (On-site)

Position Type: Full-Time (Monday--Friday, 7:00 AM -- 5:00 PM)

Compensation: $72,000 -- $85,000 / year (includes built-in overtime), plus comprehensive benefits

About the Opportunity

Are you looking to advance your career in industrial automation with an established leader in leak testing automation equipment? We are seeking a collaborative, growth-minded Automation Controls Electrical Engineer to join our team in Bay City, MI. This role offers a unique professional mentorship opportunity: you will work directly alongside an experienced engineer preparing for retirement, giving you months of direct, hands‑on knowledge transfer and system training before fully taking the reins. Whether you are an ambitious engineering graduate with co‑op experience or an experienced professional looking for your next long‑term home, this position offers the room, resources, and support to grow your technical expertise.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop automation control systems, pneumatic layouts, and operator interface panels.
• Select, specify, and integrate electrical, safety, and control components.
• Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, safety elements, and network communications.
• Interpret, apply, and ensure compliance with industry standards and customer specifications.
• Create and update detailed industrial electrical schematics using AutoCAD.
• Partner with production and technical teams to ensure seamless machine integration and performance.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education: A four‑year degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field is preferred (equivalent practical experience combined with a foundational degree/diploma will also be considered).
• Experience Level: Open to candidates with a minimum of 3 years of hands‑on experience, OR recent graduates with relevant co‑op/internship experience, as well as mid‑to‑senior engineers looking for a stable transition.
• Core Technical Competencies: Proficiency in drafting and interpreting industrial prints using AutoCAD (utilized for nearly all design work).
• Core Technical Competencies: Familiarity with hardware and software from major PLC platforms such as Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, GE, or Omron (a foundational understanding with an eagerness to expand skills is welcome).
• Core Technical Competencies: Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, IO-Link, PROFIBUS).