Senior Controls Engineer

J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC; Michigan; Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Medical benefits from day one

Paid parental leave

Opportunity to work on unique, custom

Collaborative engineering-driven env

Job summary

JR Automation Technologies, LLC, a Hitachi Group Company, is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer in Holland, MI to design and integrate advanced control systems for customized automation equipment. You’ll lead technically, solve complex challenges, and deliver robust PLC/HMI solutions and robotic programming.

Join a collaborative engineering-driven environment offering competitive wages, benefits from day one, and opportunities to grow technical expertise on unique automation projects across

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or technical diploma; three years of related experience; bachelor’s preferred.
• Strong PLC, HMI, robot programming, VFDs, servo knowledge; 4+ years in automation.
• Willingness to travel up to 25%.
• Strong communication under high-pressure conditions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and design control software using PLCs and HMIs.
• Interpret customer specifications to ensure equipment meets requirements.
• Commission systems and start-up at customer sites.
• Program robotic/controls equipment per specs.
• Provide preventive maintenance and service documentation.
• Support end-users with training at customer facilities.

Skills

PLC programming

HMI development

Robot programming

Electrical design

VFDs & servo drives

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Tech Diploma

Tools

Control software packages

Job description

Location: Holland, Michigan, United States Job ID: R0141712 Date Posted: 2026-10-29 Company Name: J.R. AUTOMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC Profession (Job Category): Engineering & Science Job Schedule: Full time Remote: No

Job Description: 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. Join us as a Senior Controls Engineer.

Location Type:

The position is onsite in Holland, MI.

Role Overview:

As a Senior Controls Engineer, you’ll use your expertise to develop and integrate advanced control systems for highly customized automation equipment. Working with a talented team of engineers, you’ll tackle complex technical challenges and bring innovative automation solutions to life. With every project offering something different, you’ll have the opportunity to lead technically, solve unique problems, and continue expanding your expertise.

Why Join Us?

• 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.

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. 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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