Senior Controls Engineer

Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.; Holland Charter Township (MI); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Medical benefits from day 1

Paid parental leave

Unique automation projects

Collaborative environment

Career growth

Quality craftsmanship

Job summary

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to design and program PLC/HMI-based control systems for on-site projects in Holland, MI. You will translate customer specs into reliable control solutions and support field commissioning.

Join a team that values craftsmanship, safety, and customer success, with opportunities for growth and exposure to unique automation projects across industries.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related with practical design experience.
• Strong knowledge of PLCs, HMIs, robot programming, VFDs and servo systems.
• 4+ years of relevant controls/automation experience.
• Up to 25% travel to customer sites.

Responsibilities

• Develops and designs control software using PLCs and HMIs.
• Interprets customer specifications to ensure equipment meets requirements.
• Programs robotic/controls equipment per customer specs.
• Performs preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Provides service documentation and training to end-users.
• Ensures safety and quality standards on site.

Skills

Electrical circuits

Electrical panel design

Pneumatic design

Hydraulic design

PLC

HMI

Robot programming

VFD/servo applications

Device communication networks

DNET/ENET/Profibus

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Tools

DNET/ENET/Profibus

Job description

Location: Holland, Michigan, United States Job ID: R0138291 Date Posted: 2026-08-05 Company Name: J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC Profession (Job Category): Engineering & Science Job Schedule: Full time Remote: No

The Opportunity

JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is driven to deliver customer success worldwide. We provide intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products. Our strength is our people, and we’re always looking to strengthen our team across the globe.

We are looking for a Senior Controls Engineer. Location Type: The position is onsite in Holland, MI.

What We Offer

• Competitive wages, medical benefits starting your first day, and paid parental leave
• Opportunity to work on unique, custom automation projects
• A collaborative, engineering-driven environment
• Career growth and skill development opportunities
• A role where craftsmanship and quality truly matter

How You’ll Make an Impact

• Develops and designs the control software packages utilizing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) and/or Human/Machine Interfaces (HMI).
• Examines and understands customer-supplied specifications in order to ensure the functionality of the equipment meets these specifications.
• Ensures the equipment being started up and commissioned operates in accordance with the customer requirements as outlined in the approved specification.
• Programs robotic and/or controls equipment per the customer specifications.
• Performs preventative maintenance as requested by the customer to ensure minimum downtime and optimum operation of machines and equipment.
• Assists with checking design and details for proper functionality of both his/her work and the work of other engineers.
• Provides timely, required service documentation relating to all functions performed.
• Provides technical support and training to the end-user at the customer facility.
• Ensures products and services continue to be the benchmark within the industry.
• Demonstrates a commitment to safe work practices while on JR Automation or the customer’s premises.
• Other duties as assigned. Note: This list of responsibilities is not inclusive; however, it is intended to be a guideline for activities.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s Degree in an Engineering discipline or Technical Diploma with three years of college-level study or related experience or equivalent of. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Intermediate understanding of electrical circuits, electrical panel design, pneumatic design, hydraulic design, PLC's (Programmable Logic Controller), HMI's (Human Machine Interface), robot programming, VFD's (Variable Frequency Drive), servo applications, and device communication networks (DNET, ENET, and Profibus).
• 4+ years of experience.
• Ability to demonstrate strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Travel up to 25% to customer sites & other JR locations.
• Ability to interact professionally with customers and maintain a positive working relationship, which at times may be under difficult circumstances and/or high-pressure situations.
• Current or prior JR Automation experience, or experience in the automation industry, is strongly preferred.

Disclaimer

JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.

Company Overview

At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what’s possible to automate for tomorrow. Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators. Fueled by Possible.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at JR Automation, please send the nature of request and contact information to [e-mail]. Queries other than accommodation requests will not be responded to.

Additional Information

Hitachi brings together the world’s greatest minds to help breathe life into new possibilities – and drive innovation for a better future. That’s why we look for individuals who share our pioneering spirit, have imaginative ideas and are fearless when it comes to tackling the world’s biggest challenges. Our people love technology – and they love making a difference. They have a passion for finding new solutions and working with brilliant colleagues. Every day they dedicate themselves to a huge range of exciting projects, contributing to the Hitachi vision around the globe. From engineering new sustainability solutions that conserve water and energy to creating the infrastructure for the smart cities of tomorrow, there’s no challenge too great for our pioneers. And there’s no shortage of opportunities for you to make a difference. Come and experience the dynamic, collaborative and creative environments where your ideas are welcome and new discoveries are waiting. To help you grow to your full potential, we strive to support our employees in their career aspirations and promote the freedom to explore new horizons.

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