Automation & Controls Engineer

My client, a global manufacturer of custom-engineered industrial materials, is seeking an Automation and Controls Engineer to support maintenance and manufacturing operations through controls design, programming, and troubleshooting.

This is a full-time, on-site role based in the Michigan City, Indiana area, ideal for an engineer who thrives at the intersection of automation, electrical systems, and hands-on manufacturing support.

If you're ready to make an immediate impact in a visible role, this opportunity combines hands-on troubleshooting with the ability to design and improve automation systems in a complex manufacturing environment.

Base salary: $81,000–$91,000 + 10% annual bonus

Low-cost Blue Cross Blue Shield medical (85% company paid premium), dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with 100% company match up to 5%

8 paid company holidays per year

Company-paid life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability

Strong support for automation improvements, controls modernization, and continuous improvement

Design and develop electrical control systems and manufacturing equipment

Program and troubleshoot PLC systems using Siemens Step 7 and TIA Portal

Develop and support HMI and SCADA systems including WinCC platforms

Troubleshoot complex electrical, mechanical, and controls-related equipment issues

Support maintenance and production teams in resolving equipment and process problems

Design control logic, wiring schematics, and AutoCAD electrical drawings

Support integration of automation systems including industrial networks such as Profibus, Profinet, and Ethernet

Work with motor controls, drives, and variable frequency drives

Create and maintain documentation including PLC programs, schematics, and troubleshooting guides

Support plant operations with on-call troubleshooting as needed

Be able to do the job as described

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related field

3+ years of hands-on automation and controls experience in manufacturing or system integration

Strong PLC programming experience (Siemens preferred)

Experience with HMI/SCADA systems and controls integration

Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in automated environments

Experience with electrical systems, motor controls, and industrial networks

Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally with maintenance and production teams

Experience in plastics manufacturing, extrusion, or continuous process environments is a plus