Senior Controls Engineer - Automation

Axis leverages the teamwork of our leading engineers and machine builders to conceptualize, design, integrate, and service factory automation systems for forward-thinking manufacturing customers.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to take ownership of complex automation projects from concept through customer startup. This is a hands-on, high-impact engineering role responsible for developing controls solutions, solving technical challenges, and helping bring custom automation systems to life. The Senior Controls Engineer serves as a technical cornerstone on projects, bringing controls expertise to complex challenges and providing technical guidance to other engineers throughout project execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, program, commission and debug complex automation systems using PLCs, HMIs, robotics, simulations, motion control and safety systems.
• Own controls engineering work from concept through runoff, supporting multiple projects across design, build, debug, and customer runoff while maintaining priorities, project requirements, and budgets.
• Troubleshoot complex automation challenges and lead root-cause analysis, working across controls, wiring, program execution, robotics, and system integration to develop effective solutions.
• Collaborate across disciplines and with customers and vendors, working with Mechanical, Build, Electrical, and Project Management teams to align scope, resolve integration issues, clarify technical requirements, and support component selection.
• Serve as a technical resource to the controls team, providing guidance through code reviews, troubleshooting, knowledge sharing, and mentoring of Level 1–3 engineers and co-ops.
• Apply and improve engineering standards and practices, contributing to continuous improvement while maintaining a big-picture view of projects and attention to the technical details required for successful execution.
• Champion our Operating Principles - You will be expected to actively embody and uphold our ten Operating Principles, which guide our every action and decision at Axis Automation. These principles are key to our culture and success.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of controls/automation experience, with multiple projects completed through the full project life cycle.
• Advanced experience with PLC programming, HMI development and industrial robot programming.
• Strong understanding of electrical and pneumatic schematics, safety systems and motion control including VFDs, servos and auxiliary robot axes.
• Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills across controls, wiring, program execution and robotics.
• Ability to execute a project independently while communicating effectively with project teams, customers, vendors and other engineers.
• Willing to travel approximately 10% - 20%.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls, or related field preferred.

Why Axis:

• Comprehensive benefits package with eligibility immediately upon hire
• Opportunities for professional and technical growth
• Collaborative, team-oriented work environment
• Exposure to a wide variety of custom automation projects and industries
• Opportunity to work directly with customers and vendors
• Hands-on involvement throughout the full project lifecycle
• Opportunity to mentor and share technical knowledge with other engineers

Axis does not currently offer remote positions or relocation assistance. Are you willing to commute to our facility in Grand Rapids, MI?

This position may require access to export-controlled information subject to ITAR.