Controls Engineer 3rd Shift - Lansing

Colonial Group; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Voltava in Michigan is seeking a Controls Engineer to maintain, develop, and improve automation control systems across our manufacturing operations. You will troubleshoot complex controls, optimize equipment performance, and drive continuous improvement with cross-functional teams.

Ideal candidates have strong PLC programming skills (Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, Siemens Step 7), experience with ladder logic, HMI, and reading electrical schematics. Bachelor’s degree required; minimal travel.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in manufacturing or automotive environments
• Proficient in PLC programming and troubleshooting
• Experience with AB Studio 5000 and Siemens Step 7
• Strong C/C++ and ladder logic skills
• Ability to read electrical drawings and schematics
• Knowledge of HMIs and automation systems
• Familiarity with industrial comms protocols
• Experience with root cause analysis and corrective actions
• Excellent analytical and communication skills
• Safety-first mindset and continuous improvement
• Ability to collaborate across multiple facilities

Responsibilities

• Maintain and improve automation control systems to support manufacturing productivity
• Troubleshoot complex controls issues and optimize equipment performance
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and cross-functional teams
• Evaluate and implement automation technologies and CI initiatives
• Ensure systems meet safety and customer requirements
• Document changes, configurations, and procedures

Skills

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Siemens Step 7

C++

C#

Ladder logic

Electrical drawings

HMI systems

Industrial communication

Root cause analysis

Cross-functional teamwork

Safety & process discipline

OEE improvement

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/IT

Tools

None

Job description

Controls Engineer

About Voltava: At Voltava, people power everything we do. We are a premier global manufacturing and assembly partner formed through the combination of Detroit Manufacturing Systems, Android Industries and Avancez with approximately 5,400 Team Members across 21 facilities worldwide. Our vibrant, collaborative, and people-focused culture is the foundation for everything we deliver, from complex module assembly and sequencing to contract manufacturing, supply chain, automation, and tooling and equipment design for OEM customers across the automotive, industrial, e-mobility, heavy truck, defense, and technology sectors. Kinetyc, our scalable contract manufacturing arm based in Wixom, Michigan, expands our capabilities and capacity to support customers across a range of industries. Together, we are Building A Better Everything.

About the Role

The Controls Engineer is responsible for maintaining, developing, and improving automation control systems to support manufacturing operations and increase productivity, efficiency, and equipment reliability. This role works closely with production, maintenance, and cross-functional teams to troubleshoot complex controls issues, optimize equipment performance, implement continuous improvement initiatives, and evaluate emerging automation technologies. The Controls Engineer plays a key role in ensuring automation systems meet both facility and customer requirements while maintaining a safe and efficient work environment.

What You Need To Be Successful

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing, automotive, logistics, or related industrial environment

• Strong programming and troubleshooting skills in industrial control systems

• Experience with Allen Bradley (Studio 5000) and Siemens Step 7 PLCs

• Knowledge of C++, C#, and ladder logic programming

• Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings and schematics

• Advanced knowledge of electronic devices and industrial automation systems

• Experience with HMI systems and performance optimization

• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols

• Experience conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills

• Ability to work cross-functionally with multiple departments and facilities

• Strong communication and documentation skills

• Commitment to safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence

Bonus Points If You Have

• Experience with Fanuc robot programming

• Experience improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE)

• Knowledge of error-proofing methodologies and automated quality systems

• Experience evaluating and implementing new manufacturing technologies

• Experience conducting equipment audits and uptime improvement initiatives

• Experience supporting multiple manufacturing facilities

• Strong background in continuous improvement and process optimization projects

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field required

Travel

Minimal travel required.

What We Offer

We believe ourteam membersare our greatest investment, which is why we offer a competitive total rewards package designed to support you at every stage of your career and life. Our benefits may include comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage, retirement savings programs with employer contributions, tuition reimbursement, paid time off and holidays, employee assistance resources, and additional wellness programs and benefits designed to support your health, financial well-being, professional growth, and overall quality of life.

Our Core Values

Voltava is committed to creating an environment where every Team Member feels welcomed, respected, valued, and empowered to make an impact.

• Respect: We create belonging by bringing out the best in each other.

• Integrity: We earn trust through every interaction.

• Courage: We show up fully even when it would be easier not to.

• Impact: We strengthen the people and places around us.

Together, we are Building A Better Everything.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Voltava is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We are committed to attracting, developing, and retaining talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

At Voltava, employment decisions are based on qualifications, skills, experience, and business needs. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce strengthens our ability to innovate, serve our customers, and achieve our goals.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Voltava is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and during employment. If you require assistance or accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact [e-mail]. Requests for accommodation will be reviewed and considered in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.