Controls Engineer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $77,000 - $122,000 depending on experience

Are you a seasoned professional with a passion for automation, PLC programming, and process control? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking Controls Engineers to lead and enhance their operations.

The Opportunity

We are partnering with organizations in Grand Rapids that are seeking Controls Engineers. These companies are committed to building strong teams and are looking for professionals who can lead initiatives effectively. By connecting with Pivot Group, you position yourself for roles that match your background and aspirations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and commission PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for manufacturing equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex electrical, software, and automation issues to minimize production downtime.
• Develop and maintain control system documentation, including electrical schematics and software specifications.
• Implement and integrate industrial robots, vision systems, and other advanced automation technologies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify and execute process improvement projects.
• Ensure all control systems comply with safety standards, industry regulations, and company policies.
• Provide technical support and training to maintenance and production personnel on automation systems.

Recommended Qualifications

• Extensive experience with PLC programming (Rockwell/Siemens) and HMI/SCADA development.
• Proficiency in industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex electrical, mechanical, and software issues in automated manufacturing systems.
• Experience with industrial robotics, servo motion control, and machine vision systems.
• Strong understanding of machine safety standards and their practical application.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) programming and integration.
• Proficiency in vision system programming and integration (e.g., Cognex, Keyence).
• Familiarity with MES/SCADA integration and data historians.
• Functional Safety certification (e.g., TÜV Rheinland).
• Database programming skills (e.g., SQL) for data acquisition and reporting.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, Industrial Automation Engineer, PLC Programmer, SCADA Engineer, Process Control Engineer, Robotics Controls Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Instrumentation & Controls 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.