Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Why Dakkota

For over 24 years, Dakkota Integrated Systems has delivered excellence through precision-engineered, build-to-order vehicle components from cockpits to fascia assemblies. Our award-winning team combines advanced lean manufacturing, strong product development, and a highly efficient supply chain to meet customer demands with reliability and innovation.

If you're looking for a company that empowers you to grow while driving excellence, collaboration, and innovation to create real impact, we’d love to meet you.

The role

We are seeking a strategic and dynamic Controls Engineer to lead our efforts in designing, implementing, and maintaining automated control systems that support safe, efficient, and reliable manufacturing operations. This role is responsible for programming and commissioning PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems; reducing equipment downtime and scrap; and driving process improvements through automation and controls optimization.

The ideal candidate is an innovative, data‑driven problem solver with a passion for automation, operational excellence, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical growth within the manufacturing environment.

This position is on-site at our Detroit facility and reports to the Controls Engineer Manager as part of the Engineering team.

What You’ll Do

• Support production operations by reducing or eliminating equipment and tooling downtime and scrap using analytical troubleshooting methods.
• Design, program, test, and commission control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and automated equipment, through start‑up and production handoff.
• Program and modify automated equipment to meet production, safety, and quality requirements.
• Design and specify electronic controls for manufacturing processes, including preparing quotes, reviewing vendor proposals, and recommending control devices.
• Maintain and improve process controls equipment, ensuring reliability, efficiency, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.
• Develop plant and process improvements, including layout changes, automation upgrades, equipment selection, and ergonomic enhancements.
• Document controls activities and projects, advise maintenance technicians, and communicate risks or nonconformances to management.

Who you are

• Minimum 2‑year college education and 1 year related controls/assembly experience.
• Hands‑on PLC logic & programming experience (e.g., Allen‑Bradley, Modicon, GE Fanuc, Siemens, Mitsubishi, Omron, etc.).
• HMI/SCADA configuration with packages such as Wonderware, Rockwell, Intellution, GE Cimplicity, Iconics, Siemens, etc.
• Electrical/mechanical proficiency including panel design/layout and wiring schematic capabilities; blueprint reading.
• Automation & controls networking: ControlNe /DeviceNet I/O systems; RSView; industrial controls; variable frequency drives.
• Software tools: Advanced computer skills (Microsoft Word/Excel) and AutoCAD experience.

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

• Must comply with all applicable company safety policies, emergency evacuation procedures, and environmental regulations.
• Ability to perform a normal amount of sitting and standing throughout the workday.
• Approximately 20% travel is required to support projects, equipment commissioning, or other operational needs.
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Life at Dakkota

Our success is rooted in meaningful relationships and a culture that feels like family. We champion compassion, respect, and work-life balance, while supporting each team member’s personal and professional growth. Through ongoing development, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package, we empower our people to thrive both at work and in life.

Our benefits include paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) plan for eligible employees.

Explore everything we have to offer at Dakkota Careers!