Automation Engineer | East Lansing, MI

Salary Range: $78,000 - $123,000 depending on experience

Are you a forward-thinking professional with a passion for designing systems that improve efficiency and reduce manual processes? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in East Lansing seeking skilled Automation Engineers.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with multiple companies in East Lansing seeking experienced Automation Engineers. These organizations value long-term fit and are looking for professionals who bring both skill and alignment. By joining our network, you gain access to opportunities tailored to your goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement industrial automation solutions (e.g., PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robotics).
• Program and configure programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve issues with automated production equipment and control systems.
• Optimize existing automation processes to improve efficiency, quality, and throughput.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation for automation systems and processes.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to identify automation opportunities and requirements.
• Ensure all automation solutions comply with safety standards, industry regulations, and company policies.

Recommended Qualifications

• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Hands-on experience with industrial robotics (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB), motion control, and vision systems.
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and commission automation solutions in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and data acquisition.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Automation, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related technical field.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB, Universal Robots).
• Proficiency in machine vision systems for quality control or guidance applications (e.g., Cognex, Keyence).
• Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) integration and industrial data analytics platforms.
• Knowledge of industrial network design and OT cybersecurity best practices.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Automation Specialist, Controls Engineer, Industrial Automation Engineer, Process Automation Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Automation Solutions Engineer, Automation Developer, Test Automation Engineer, PLC Programmer, SCADA Engineer

Why Pivot Group

The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.