Engineer 1-3: Controls / Software Engineer

Burr Oak Tool Inc; Sturgis (MI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Burr OAK Tool Corporate in Sturgis, MI is seeking an Engineer 1 - Software to design and refine PLC software and HMI applications for automated machinery.

You will work with mechanical and controls engineers to implement features, test, debug, and deploy control systems while ensuring safety and quality standards. This role involves close collaboration across engineering teams and occasional travel as projects require.

Qualifications

• 4-year degree in computer science, information technology, a related degree, or comparable work experience.
• Proficiency with PLC programming (ladder logic and structured text) and HMI development.
• Experience with servo/motion control and machine startup/testing is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop PLC software using ladder logic and structured text for automated machinery.
• Modify and enhance existing machine programs to support new features and improvements.
• Design, develop, and maintain HMI applications for operator control, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
• Configure, tune, and validate servo and motion control systems to meet performance requirements.
• Test, debug, and commission control systems; resolve software, electrical, and integration issues.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers to define control requirements and select hardware; assist assembly during build and startup.
• Provide technical support to customers and field service teams via phone and remote troubleshooting.
• Support machine startup, customer training, and travel as needed (<5%).

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Servo / motion control

Machine startup

Troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

E-Plan

CAD layouts

Job description

Job Category: Engineering

Requisition Number: ENGIN001350

• Posted : July 31, 2026
• Full-Time

Locations

Showing 1 location

South Street-Sturgis, MI
Burr OAK Tool Corporate
405 W South St
Sturgis, MI 49091, USA

South Street-Sturgis, MI
Burr OAK Tool Corporate
405 W South St
Sturgis, MI 49091, USA

Position: Engineer 1 - Software Salary Grade: E1

Primary Purpose: Design software and controls systems for machines and mechanisms based on customer orders, special requests, industry trends, advancing technology and current standards of excellence. Make changes to existing designs and processes to improve quality and reduce costs.

Roles: Expected behaviors and activities performed to fulfill responsibilities

• Practice and encourage the best safety practices resulting in zero lost time within department.
• Implement and practice effective 5S and participate in regular team 5S audits.
• Set an example of working hard and doing the right things, exhibit energy and positivity.
• Accountable to work independently; observe and recommend procedures to achieve impactful results.
• Solve semi-routine issues utilizing problem solving analysis and prioritizing processes and routines.
• Understand and achieve Reasonable Expectations (REs) for current position and responsibilities (excellent productivity and quality) and participate in regular team process audits.
• Engage in clear, courteous, effective, honest, and open communications with team members and others within and outside the company.
• Develop and seek positive relationships; actively participate in regular huddles and goal setting.

Responsibilities: Quantifiable metrics to which a person is held accountable

Develop PLC software using ladder logic and structured text to control automated machinery.

Modify and enhance existing machine programs to support new features, options, and performance improvements.

Design, develop, and maintain HMI applications that provide operators with intuitive machine control, diagnostics, and troubleshooting capabilities.

• Configure, program, tune, and validate servo and motion control systems to achieve machine performance and reliability requirements.
• Test, debug, and commission machine control systems by operating equipment, validating functionality, and resolving software, electrical, and machine integration issues.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers during machine design to define control requirements, develop machine sequences, create logic diagrams, and select controls hardware including PLCs, HMIs, and motion control components.
• Work closely with assembly technicians during machine build and startup activities to integrate, test, troubleshoot, and optimize machine operation.
• Perform root cause analysis and troubleshooting of machine, controls, and software issues in both development and production environments.
• Provide technical support to customers and field service technicians through phone and remote troubleshooting of machine controls, motion systems, and operational issues.
• Support machine startup, customer training, and troubleshooting activities. Limited travel (<5%>) may be required.

Skills: Essential qualifications and functions gained through training and experience

• 4-year degree in computer science, information technology, a related degree, or comparable work experience.
• Proficiency with the following:
  • PLC programming (ladder logic and structured text)
  • HMI development
  • Servo / motion control experience (ability to configure, program, and commission servo controls).
  • Machine startup and debugging
• Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills
• Preferred experience with the use of E-Plan (or equivalent), and able to create technical CAD layouts.
• High energy level, comfortable performing multi-faceted projects in conjunction with day-to-day activities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills. Ability to get along with diverse personalities, tactful, mature, and flexible.
• Comfortable interacting directly with customers by phone.
• Documentation of a drug screen must be provided prior to starting this position.

Qualifications

Skills

Behaviors

:

Motivations

:

Education

Preferred

Bachelors or better in Engineering or related field.

Experience

Licenses & Certifications

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.