Electrical controls engineer
Step Up Recruiting, Temperance, MI, United States
Company Overview The company specializes in custom automation, robotics, and industrial processes, serving a range of industries. Core applications include robotics for fastening, material handling, welding, and general assembly, as well as tooling for composite assemblies, bonding, drilling, and inspection. The company operates out of a single facility and is part of a larger, growth-oriented industrial group, known for providing employees with professional development and work-life balance. Position Summary We are seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to support assigned projects and ensure they meet customer requirements for timing, quality, and cost. The individual will play a leadership role within the Controls Engineering Department, driving projects from concept to completion. Primary Responsibilities Collaborate with other Controls Engineers, electrical designers, shop floor electricians, and panel builders. Demonstrate expertise in PLC programming, operator interface development, and hardware design. Work with Application Engineers to develop concepts and assist sales engineering efforts. Conduct internal design reviews and participate in customer design reviews. Develop project milestones in collaboration with the Project Management Department. Estimate costs for controls design and implementation. Ensure compliance with customer standards for all designs. Travel domestically and internationally as required to support customer projects. Establish and implement standard engineering practices to build a world-class controls department. Qualifications & Requirements Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or associates degree with equivalent experience. 3+ years of experience in electrical and controls engineering, preferably in machine tool and automation. Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals and principles. In-depth knowledge of machine design, safety, part handling, robotic end-of-arm tooling, and work cell layout. Proficient in project management and time management software tools. Comprehensive knowledge of coordinated motion control technologies, PID tuning, and the use of stepper motors, servo motors, pneumatics, and hydraulics. Advanced skills with Rockwell Automation PLC platforms: RSLogix 500/5000, Studio 5000, and Connected Components Workbench. Knowledge of additional platforms like Omron, Siemens, or Mitsubishi is a plus. Proficiency in Rockwell Automation HMI software: FactoryTalk View Studio ME, Studio 5000 View Designer. Familiarity with other HMI development tools is beneficial. Experience with vision system programming (Keyence, Cognex, Teledyne DALSA). Experience with Fanuc and Yaskawa robot programming, including pathing, I/O logic, TCP and user frame teaching, and safety setups. Relevant experience in: a. Design for manufacturing b. Automation design c. Special-purpose machinery d. Industrial robots and control systems Ability to interpret electrical schematics and size components. Background in the automotive industry is an advantage. Willingness to travel up to 15%-20% for project support. Physical Requirements Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds. Capable of talking, walking, standing, and sitting in an office environment. This job description outlines the primary duties and qualifications but may not detail all tasks or responsibilities. The candidate will be expected to contribute flexibly as needed.