Lead Controls Engineer – PLC & Plant Automation

General Motors Company; Burton (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

General Motors Company seeks a Controls Engineer for the CCA Maintenance Team to lead controls projects, troubleshoot PLCs, and drive plantwide improvements.

You'll work with skilled trades and cross‑functional teams to reduce downtime, boost system performance, and ensure reliable operation of conveyors and automated storage systems. On-site four‑plus days weekly, with weekend support as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, or 4+ years of equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of experience in controls, automation, or manufacturing.
• On-site five days per week, including weekends (min two Saturdays/mo) and occasional Sundays/holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls-related projects including equipment installation, upgrades, and improvements.
• Troubleshoot and program Allen‑Bradley PLCs to support plant operations.
• Support downtime events by identifying root causes and restoring systems quickly.
• Partner with skilled trades to resolve equipment and automation issues.
• Improve performance of conveyors, automated storage systems, and legacy equipment.
• Develop project plans, cost estimates, and timelines.
• Track and report project progress and results.
• Identify and implement opportunities to improve system reliability and reduce waste.
• Support preventative maintenance and system optimization efforts.
• Build and improve production monitoring and alert systems for legacy equipment.
• Participate in plant meetings and provide technical input to improve performance.
• Train and guide technical team members on controls systems and troubleshooting.
• Maintain documentation for systems, changes, and projects.
• Follow and promote safe work practices at all times.
• Provide off-shift and weekend support as needed

Skills

Experience in controls/automation/manu

Analytical & problem solving

Communication (written & verbal)

Cross‑functional collaboration

Willingness for off-shift/weekend

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or 4+ years of equivalent experience

Tools

Allen‑Bradley PLCs

Ignition SCADA (preferred)

Job description

General Motors Company seeks a Controls Engineer for the CCA Maintenance Team to lead controls projects, troubleshoot PLCs, and drive plantwide improvements.

You'll work with skilled trades and cross‑functional teams to reduce downtime, boost system performance, and ensure reliable operation of conveyors and automated storage systems. On-site four‑plus days weekly, with weekend support as needed.