Automation Controls Lead for Plant Launches

generalmotors; Warren (MI); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

General Motors in Warren, MI seeks a Senior Manufacturing Controls Engineer to design, develop, integrate, and launch automated manufacturing systems across GM’s global operations. You will lead cross-functional teams, coordinate with suppliers, and ensure safe, reliable, high-performing controls solutions.

Expect domestic and international travel and collaboration with IT, robotics, and product engineering.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Controls, Computer Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of manufacturing controls/automation experience.
• Experience designing, programming, integrating, and commissioning automated equipment.
• Strong experience with PLCs, HMIs, drives, safety controls, networks and electrical systems.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics, panel layouts and equipment specs.
• Experience managing projects and equipment suppliers.
• Analytical, communicative, organized, and decisive.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and travel domestically/internationally.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls engineering execution from concept through production launch.
• Develop and approve hardware/software designs for controls systems.
• Program, troubleshoot, and validate automated equipment.
• Apply GM Global Common Controls standards for hardware, software, safety, networks, and cybersecurity.
• Oversee emulation, testing, supplier buyoffs, and production validation.
• Provide technical direction to engineers, suppliers, and plant personnel.
• Manage scope, timing, risks, and deliverables.
• Collaborate with suppliers to meet GM standards and requirements.
• Support launches, ramp-up, downtime recovery, and complex troubleshooting.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Participate in investment studies and technical sourcing activities.
• Develop standardized controls templates and documentation.
• Capture lessons learned and improve standards and tools.
• Collaborate with global teams on new automation tech deployments.
• Promote safety, inclusion, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Skills

PLCs

HMIs

Drives

Safety controls

Industrial networks

Electrical schematics

Cross-functional leadership

Project management

Root-cause analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical / Controls / Computer Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Emulate3D

EPLAN

HMI development tools

Job description

General Motors in Warren, MI seeks a Senior Manufacturing Controls Engineer to design, develop, integrate, and launch automated manufacturing systems across GM’s global operations. You will lead cross-functional teams, coordinate with suppliers, and ensure safe, reliable, high-performing controls solutions.

Expect domestic and international travel and collaboration with IT, robotics, and product engineering.