Controls Project Engineer

Ascent Aerospace; Michigan; On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance

Life Insurance

AD&D Insurance

PTO

401(k) Match

Job summary

Ascent Aerospace is seeking a Controls Project Engineer in Michigan to manage automation projects. Responsibilities include hardware design, programming, and technical support for automated assembly equipment. The ideal candidate will have a BA or BS in Electrical or Computer Engineering, along with over 5 years of experience in controls hardware design and programming. Benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance, PTO, and a 401(k) match.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in a manufacturing engineering environment.
• Proven experience in controls hardware design and programming.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects covering hardware design, programming, and testing.
• Provide technical support for integrating hardware and software controls.
• Collaborate with teams to improve system design and performance.

Skills

PLC logic

Controls hardware design

Programming with Allen Bradley

Siemens 840 controller

Proficiency in MS Office

C# programming

Education

BA or BS degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering

Job description

Summary Of Position

The Controls Project Engineer will provide controls project management including design engineering, integration, and technical support for the manufacture of automated assembly equipment. The individual will be responsible for hardware design, programming, commissioning, and software testing, playing an integral role from concept through production and representing Ascent Aerospace professionally during commissioning and buy‑off.

Essential Functions

• Serve as the controls lead on automation projects, covering hardware design, specification, programming, simulation, testing, and start‑up assistance.
• Design, write, test, implement, and document PLC and HMI software.
• Manage installation, commissioning, and production support of automation systems on the customer floor.
• Provide technical support for complex systems integrating hardware and software controls.
• Assist in developing company standards to ensure consistency in project execution.
• Collaborate with the integration team to research new technologies applicable to aerospace and improve system design and performance.
• Identify project requirements, specifications, timelines, and customer expectations.
• Coordinate and direction to equipment vendors regarding electrical hardware design, software development, and installation schedules.
• Utilize engineering knowledge to communicate effectively with customers and suppliers.
• Provide necessary information to the installation team to facilitate a quality control system installation.
• Review program department metrics to ensure accurate performance reporting to management and customers, and recommend improvements.
• Perform any additional duties assigned by management.

Required Skills, Education, And Experience

• BA or BS degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering.
• Minimum of 5+ years’ experience in a manufacturing engineering environment.
• Proven experience in controls hardware design, PLC logic, and programming with Allen Bradley, Siemens, GE Fanuc, or Mitsubishi PLCs.
• CNC experience with Siemens 840 controller or Fanuc 30iB is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of electrical power and distribution systems.
• Experience programming servo controllers and VFDs.
• Proficiency in programming Fanuc, KUKA, and/or ABB robots is a plus.
• Project execution knowledge covering the entire project management lifecycle.
• Current knowledge of NFPA, NEC, UL 508, IEC and CE standards relevant to control panel design and build.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Project).
  
• Experience in C# programming is preferred.
• This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements; a “US Person” as defined by 22.C.F.R. is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Problem‑solving: identifies and resolves problems timely and analyzes information skillfully.
• Interpersonal: maintains confidentiality, remains open to ideas, and encourages new approaches with stakeholders.
• Oral communication: speaks clearly, persuasively, and conduct meetings effectively.
• Written communication: edits work for grammar, presents data clearly, and interprets written information.
• Planning/organizing: prioritizes work, uses time efficiently, and develops realistic action plans.
• Adaptability: manages competing demands and responds to changes, delays, or unexpected events.
• Dependability: consistently punctual, follows instructions, responds to management, and seeks feedback.
• Safety and security: promotes procedures, uses equipment properly, and observes safety protocols.
• Strategic planning: works in a team to establish goals and implement action plans focused on achievement.

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Travel

As necessary

Working Conditions

• May be exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes, and airborne particles.
• Typically sits for extended periods at a computer workstation.
• May access the manufacturing plant and work with vibration.
• Occasional exposure to caustic chemicals.
• Noise level is usually moderate.
• May be required to work weekends.
• Safe manufacturing processes and mandatory eyewear in the area.
• Safety shoes are recommended.

Physical Demands

• Must sit, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as required.
• Must see, talk, hear, touch, feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• Must walk and stand for short periods frequently.
• Must lift up to 10 pounds and occasionally move up to 35 pounds.

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Short‑ and Long‑Term Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• AD&D Insurance
• PTO
• 401(k) Match

Special Requirements

Employment is contingent upon passing a reference check, criminal background check, and drug screening. This position requires ITAR‑subject information; all applicants must be U.S. persons as defined by ITAR.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Ascent Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under applicable laws. If you have a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in applying, please call toll‑free +1 586‑726‑0500.