Automation Controls Project Lead

Colonial Group; Macomb Township (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Ascent Aerospace seeks a Controls Project Engineer to lead controls hardware design, PLC/HMI development, and system integration for automated assembly equipment. You will manage installation, commissioning, and production support while ensuring compliance with electrical standards and safety protocols.

The role requires 5+ years in manufacturing engineering, PLC and robotics programming, and strong communication with customers and vendors. ITAR compliance and US person status apply.

Qualifications

• BA or BS degree in Electrical Engineering/Computer Engineering
• 5+ years’ experience in a Manufacturing Engineering environment
• Experience with PLCs: Allen Bradley, Siemens, GE Fanuc, or Mitsubishi
• CNC experience with Siemens 840 controller or Fanuc 30iB a plus
• Strong knowledge of electrical power and distribution systems
• Experience programming servo controllers and VFDs
• Proficient in programming Fanuc, KUKA, and ABB robots
• Project management lifecycle knowledge
• Knowledge of NFPA, NEC, UL 508, IEC and CE standards for control panels
• MS Office: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Project
• Experience in C# programming is preferred
• This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a “US Person” is required

Responsibilities

• Lead controls hardware design, programming, simulation and testing
• Design, write, test, implement and document PLC and HMI software
• Manage installation, commissioning, and production support of automation systems
• Provide technical support of complex hardware/software systems
• Develop company standards to ensure consistency in project execution
• Research new technologies for aerospace applications to improve design and performance
• Coordinate with equipment vendors on electrical hardware and software schedules
• Communicate with customers and suppliers to convey requirements and status

Skills

Controls design

PLC programming

HMI software

Electrical power distribution

Servo/VFD programming

Robotics programming

Project management

NFPA/NEC/UL 508 IEC

MS Office

C# programming (pref)

US Person export control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering

Tools

Allen-Bradley

Siemens

GE Fanuc

Mitsubishi

Fanuc

KUKA

ABB robots

Job description

Ascent Aerospace seeks a Controls Project Engineer to lead controls hardware design, PLC/HMI development, and system integration for automated assembly equipment. You will manage installation, commissioning, and production support while ensuring compliance with electrical standards and safety protocols.

The role requires 5+ years in manufacturing engineering, PLC and robotics programming, and strong communication with customers and vendors. ITAR compliance and US person status apply.