Machine Controls Engineer

Connect-Force; Novi (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential client in the Detroit area seeks a Controls Engineer to design and support PLC/HMI systems for custom machinery. You will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and build teams to troubleshoot, commission, and optimize performance on live systems.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role that shapes how world-class machines are designed and delivered. You will influence standards, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to a growing, investment-focused engineering environment.

Qualifications

• Experience as a controls/automation engineer developing and maintaining PLC/HMI systems.
• Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell, Siemens or similar).
• Experience with HMI, motion control and industrial networks.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and support PLC and HMI control systems for custom machinery.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and machine-build teams.
• Troubleshoot and debug systems during build, test, and customer acceptance.
• Support machine startup, integration, and commissioning (limited travel).
• Help define controls standards and best practices; mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Controls Engineer / Automation

PLC platforms

HMI development

Motion control

Industrial networks

Troubleshooting

Communication

Job description

Confidential Job Posting:

Controls Engineer

Location: Metro Detroit, MI
Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire
Compensation: Competitive Salary + Bonus Potential
Industry: Precision Machinery / Advanced Manufacturing

Build What Others Can’t

Our confidential client is a globally respected leader in precision machinery and advanced manufacturing systems. They design and build complex, high-performance equipment used by top automotive and industrial manufacturers around the world.

This is not a maintenance role.
This is not a support-only role.

This is a hands-on, high-impact engineering position where your work directly shapes how world-class machines are designed, built, and delivered.

Why This Role Is Exciting

• Work on custom, one-of-a-kind machines - no repetitive projects
• Be trusted as a technical authority within a strong engineering team
• Influence projects from concept through commissioning
• Join a company that is growing, investing, and promoting from within

If you enjoy solving complex problems, collaborating with sharp engineers, and seeing your work come to life on the shop floor - this role is for you.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Design, develop, and support PLC and HMI control systems for custom machinery
• Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, machine builders, and electrical teams
• Troubleshoot and debug systems during build, test, and customer acceptance
• Support machine startup, integration, and commissioning (limited travel)
• Help define controls standards, best practices, and continuous improvements
• Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making

What We’re Looking For

• Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer
• Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell, Siemens, or similar)
• Experience with HMI development, motion control, and industrial networks
• Background in machine build, automation, or capital equipment environments
• Strong troubleshooting skills and hands-on mindset
• Ability to communicate clearly with engineers, technicians, and customers

Why Engineers Stay Here

• Stable company with long-term growth and a strong project pipeline
• Excellent benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401k, PTO)
• Clean, modern engineering and manufacturing environment
• Supportive leadership that values engineering input
• Real advancement opportunities - technical and leadership career paths

Important Timeline

Candidate screening will begin January 2nd
Qualified candidates will be contacted directly to schedule an initial conversation.

Confidential Application Notice

This role is being handled confidentially by an external recruiting partner.
Company details will be shared after initial screening.