Controls Engineer

R&E Automated; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

R&E Automated is seeking a Field Service Controls Engineer to deliver premier controls solutions across automotive, defense, food, entertainment, pharma, and aerospace sectors. You will travel to client sites, install, commission, and debug industrial automation systems, and support production runs.

Ideal candidates bring PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial network experience, with Siemens familiarity preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience in controls engineering and industrial automation.
• Experience with PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial networks.
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills for complex systems.
• Self-starting, autonomous mindset with ability to work independently while collaborating with teams.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for on-site training and reporting.

Responsibilities

• System Start-Up and Debugging: install, commission, and debug new automation and control systems at client facilities.
• Troubleshooting & Optimization: diagnose and resolve electrical, software, and mechanical issues to minimize downtime.
• Production Support: provide hands-on support during production runs to ensure operation and reliability.
• Systems Integration: implement and manage Factory Information Systems (FIS) and Vehicle Scheduling Systems (VSS).
• Client Collaboration: serve as primary technical point of contact on-site and communicate with facility management and engineers.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Industrial networks

Siemens experience

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Field Service Controls Engineer
Job Type: Full-Time
Travel Requirement: Up to 90%

We are seeking a highly motivated Field Service Controls Engineer to become an integral part of our team. In this dynamic, hands-on role, you will deliver premier controls engineering solutions across diverse industrial automation sectors, including Automotive, Defense, Food Preparation, Entertainment, Pharmaceutical, and Aerospace. This position is ideal for a proactive problem-solver who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys traveling to client sites to bring complex automated systems to life.

Key Responsibilities

• System Start-Up & Debugging: Lead the installation, commissioning, and debugging of new industrial automation and control systems at client facilities.
• Troubleshooting & Optimization: Diagnose and resolve complex electrical, software, and mechanical issues on existing automation systems to minimize downtime.
• Production Support: Provide direct, hands-on support during production runs to ensure maximum operational efficiency and equipment reliability.
• Systems Integration: Implement, integrate, and manage Factory Information Systems (FIS) and Vehicle Scheduling Systems (VSS).
• Client Collaboration: Act as the primary technical point of contact on-site, communicating effectively with facility management, operators, and cross-functional engineering teams.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: Proven professional experience in controls engineering and industrial automation.
• Technical Knowledge: Experience with PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial networks. Siemens experience is highly preferred , though not strictly required.
• Analytical Ability: Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, with the ability to assess complex systems and implement rapid, effective solutions.
• Work Ethic: A self-starting, autonomous mindset with the discipline to manage field tasks independently while remaining a strong collaborative team player.
• Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, essential for training operators, reporting to stakeholders, and representing the company professionally on-site.

Travel Requirements

• High Travel: This is a field-based role requiring up to 95% travel from home . Candidates must possess a valid driver's license, be comfortable with heavy domestic (and potentially international) travel, and adapt quickly to varying industrial environments. Home Every 2-3 weeks.

Company Description

R&E Automated Systems ( is the industry leader in Automotive Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services, including Mechanical, Quality, Simulation, and Service Part Stamping, Assembly, and Coating.