Controls Engineer. Southfield Move Collective

Controls Engineer The Opportunity

As a Controls Engineer, you will play a critical role in designing, implementing, and continuously improving advanced manufacturing and automation systems. You'll work at the intersection of controls engineering, automation, and operational excellence-driving performance, reliability, and innovation across production environments. This role offers hands‑on technical ownership, cross‑functional collaboration, and the opportunity to influence both current operations and future expansion.

• Analyze machine performance and operational requirements using PLC‑based control systems to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute assigned automation and controls projects from concept through commissioning, tracking progress and results.
• Develop, manage, and forecast capital investment budgets related to controls and automation initiatives.
• Serve as the primary technical interface with automation, robotics, and capital equipment suppliers to select and implement control solutions.
• Provide controls engineering guidance for new equipment selection, system upgrades, and long‑term scalability.
• Integrate and network PCs and PLCs using industrial communication protocols such as TCP/IP and Ethernet/IP.
• Provide timely controls support to troubleshoot issues and minimize production downtime.
• Lead and promote lean manufacturing principles, including 5S, OEE, Kanban, Visual Factory, and TPM, to drive operational excellence.
• Identify and implement automation and process improvements to increase safety, quality, throughput, and efficiency.
• Collaborate internally and externally on controls‑related communications, including technical presentations, design reviews, capacity analysis, and feasibility studies.
• Partner with Purchasing to evaluate new suppliers, technologies, and automation solutions to maintain a competitive advantage.
• Benchmark industry best practices in automation and controls and help incorporate them into internal standards.
• Mentor and support Maintenance Technicians, helping to build technical skillsets and strengthen overall team capability.
• Support an inclusive workplace by participating in reasonable accommodations as needed to enable essential job functions.

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Programming, or a related technical field.
• At least 2 years of experience as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• 2‑4 years of hands‑on PLC programming experience, including Allen‑Bradley Micro Logix, SLC 500, and Control Logix (5000 series), as well as manual assembly cells, automated assembly systems, and Power & Free conveyor systems.
• 2‑4 years of experience programming vision systems such as Cognex, DVT, and Keyence.
• 2‑4 years of experience developing and maintaining HMI applications (Allen‑Bradley Panel View / Panel View Plus).
• At least 2 years of experience working in JIT, SPD, ILVS, or batch manufacturing environments, including broadcast and demand‑driven production logic.
• Experience with both manual and automated assembly systems, including mechanical and control system integration.
• Strong technical skillset including Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500, and Factory Talk View.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and cross‑functionally.

• Standard schedule:
  Monday‑Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Approximately 10% travel, as needed for equipment support, vendor coordination, or project implementation.

The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.