Senior Controls Engineer

Mission Design & Automation; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Health insurance

401(k) with company contribution

Paid time off and holidays

Opportunities for professional growth

Company events

Job summary

Mission Design & Automation in Michigan is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, implementation, and documentation of controls systems for automated equipment. You’ll mentor junior engineers and guide projects from concept through startup.

You’ll collaborate across departments, help with quotes, ensure on-schedule delivery, and validate machine changes. The role requires a bachelor’s degree and hands-on experience with AutoCAD, electrical/pneumatic design, HMI, PLC, and robots.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent technical experience.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, electrical and pneumatic design, Microsoft Office, and other program/design systems including HMI, PLC, and robots.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Experience mentoring, coaching, and training staff.
• Work as part of a team or independently with direction from leadership.
• Demonstrated skill in machine de-bug.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Approximately 25% travel, including domestic and international travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and documentation of controls systems for automated equipment.
• Mentor, coach, and train entry level Controls Engineers.
• Communicate with all departments on project progress and status.
• Support quoting team by providing input on concepts, hours, and material cost.
• Ensure projects are completed within quoted scope of work, timing, and budget.
• Complete assigned tasks with minimal direct supervision.
• Ensure equipment design and program meet internal and external specifications.
• Coordinate machine de-bug, power up, and validation with project team members.
• Document and communicate machine changes and issues.

Skills

Mentoring

Teamwork

Communication

Analytical thinking

Machine debugging

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent technical experience

Tools

AutoCAD

HMI/PLC/Robots

Electrical design

Pneumatic design

Microsoft Office

Job description

At Mission Design & Automation, we don’t just build custom automation equipment - we solve complex problems, push boundaries, and take pride in doing work the right way. Our success comes from a team that’s hands‑on, collaborative, and always willing to step up when it counts.

We’re looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who’s not only strong technically, but also enjoys mentoring others, shaping projects, and playing a key role from concept through startup. If you like variety in your work, ownership in your projects, and a team that has your back, you’ll fit right in.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the design, implementation, and documentation of controls systems for various types of automated equipment
• Mentor, coach, and train entry level Controls Engineers
• Communicate with all departments on project progress and status
• Support quoting team by providing input on concepts, hours, and material cost
• Ensure projects are completed within quoted scope of work, timing, and budget
• Complete assigned tasks with minimal direct supervision
• Ensure equipment design and program meet internal and external specifications
• Coordinate machine de‑bug, power up, and validation with project team members
• Document and communicate machine changes and issues

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent technical experience
• Proficient in AutoCAD, electrical and pneumatic design, Microsoft Office, and other program/design systems including HMI, PLC, and robots
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
• Experience mentoring, coaching, and training staff
• Work as part of a team or independently with direction from Controls Engineer Manager or Senior Lead Controls Engineer
• Demonstrated skill in machine de‑bug
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Approximately 25% travel, including both domestic and international travel, is expected

Build something that matters.

At Mission Design & Automation, we don’t just build custom automation equipment - we solve complex problems, push boundaries, and take pride in doing work the right way. Our success comes from a team that’s hands‑on, collaborative, and always willing to step up when it counts.

We’re looking for a Senior Controls Engineer who’s not only strong technically, but also enjoys mentoring others, shaping projects, and playing a key role from concept through startup. If you like variety in your work, ownership in your projects, and a team that has your back, you’ll fit right in.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the design, implementation, and documentation of controls systems for various types of automated equipment
• Mentor, coach, and train entry level Controls Engineers

• Communicate with all departments on project progress and status
• Support quoting team by providing input on concepts, hours, and material cost
• Ensure projects are completed within quoted scope of work, timing, and budget
• Complete assigned tasks with minimal direct supervision
• Ensure equipment design and program meet internal and external specifications
• Coordinate machine de‑bug, power up, and validation with project team members
• Document and communicate machine changes and issues

  What You Bring

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent technical experience
  • Proficient in AutoCAD, electrical and pneumatic design, Microsoft Office, and other program/design systems including HMI, PLC, and robots
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Experience mentoring, coaching, and training staff
  • Work as part of a team or independently with direction from Controls Engineer Manager or Senior Lead Controls Engineer
  • Demonstrated skill in machine de‑bug
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Effective customer service skills
  • Approximately 25% travel, including both domestic and international travel, is expected

  What It’s Like to Work Here

  • Team-firstenvironment – people step in to help, share knowledge, and get the job done
  • Hands‑on and fast‑paced – no two projects are the same, and your work makes a real impact
  • Growth‑minded – we invest in developing our people, not just filling roles
  • Built on trust – you’ll have ownership of your work and the support you need to succeed
  • Rewarding atmosphere – from solving tough technical challenges to team outings and events

  Benefits & Perks

  • Competitive pay based on experience
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company contribution
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
  • Company events, team outings, and a strong sense of community
  • Access to unique employee resources and perks through our partnerships

  Why Mission?

  Because here, you’re not just another engineer - you’re a key part of a team building highly customized solutions that customers rely on. You’ll see your work come to life on the floor, collaborate with people who take pride in what they do, and have the chance to grow along the way.