Senior Controls Engineer

General Motors; Kentucky; On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

General Motors in Kentucky is seeking a Controls Process Engineer to lead controls and automation efforts across manufacturing programs, delivering high‑reliability electrical systems and advanced process technologies.

You will collaborate with plants, suppliers, and cross‑functional teams, manage milestones, provide technical guidance, and travel up to 25% to support startup of critical equipment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience as a controls and/or robotics engineer.
• Strong knowledge of electrical and controls systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience with PLC and HMI programming, Ethernet and/or DeviceNet networks.
• Experience with servo motors, motion control, and drives.
• Ability to design and troubleshoot electrical controls systems.
• Experience executing a GM GA or Bodyshop program.
• Strong project management, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with a high level of autonomy and accountability.
• Knowledge of GM’s global controls architecture.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls execution for new and existing manufacturing programs.
• Support controls and robotics design, equipment build, run-off, buyoff, installation, and launch.
• Manage project timing, deliverables, and milestones.
• Troubleshoot and improve electrical controls systems in plant environments.
• Partner with plants, suppliers, and cross-functional teams to deliver program objectives.
• Provide project updates to leadership and technical guidance to less experienced engineers.
• Support validation and implementation of advanced process technologies.
• Travel as needed to support critical equipment startups.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience and training

Job description

Job Description

At General Motors, we are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. From breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features, we are shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.

The Role

As a Controls Process Engineer, you will support the development and execution of advanced manufacturing and automation solutions that help bring GM’s vision of Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion to life. You will join a high-performing team responsible for delivering industrial controls solutions across new and existing manufacturing programs.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about driving innovation in manufacturing.

What You’ll Do

• Lead controls execution for new and existing manufacturing programs
• Support controls and robotics design, equipment build, run-off, buyoff, installation, and launch
• Manage project timing, deliverables, and milestones
• Troubleshoot and improve electrical controls systems in plant environments
• Partner with plants, suppliers, and cross-functional teams to deliver program objectives
• Provide project updates to leadership and technical guidance to less experienced engineers
• Support validation and implementation of advanced process technologies
• Travel as needed to support critical equipment startups

Required Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience as a controls and/or robotics engineer
• Strong knowledge of electrical and controls systems in a manufacturing environment
• Experience with PLC and HMI programming, Ethernet and/or DeviceNet networks
• Experience with servo motors, motion control, and drives
• Ability to design and troubleshoot electrical controls systems
• Experience executing a GM GA or Bodyshop program
• Strong project management, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with a high level of autonomy and accountability
• Knowledge of GM’s global controls architecture
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent experience and training

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in automotive manufacturing
• Understanding of plant floor operations
• General knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics
• Understanding of GMS and 4 Walls within a site or program

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc). This role is categorized as hybrid. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location at least 3 times a week {or other frequency dictated by their manager}. The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role. This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.

Non-Discrimination and Equal Employment Opportunities (U.S.)

General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of unlawful discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that providing an inclusive workplace creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers.

All employment decisions are made on a non-discriminatory basis without regard to sex, race, color, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, disability, pregnancy or maternity status, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran or protected veteran, or any other similarly protected status in accordance with federal, state and local laws.

Accommodations

General Motors offers opportunities to all job seekers including individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment, email us or call us at 1-800-865-7580. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title and requisition number of the position for which you are applying.