Controls Engineer - Grand Rapids Area

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, develop, and implement industrial control systems including PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA.
• Program, troubleshoot, and debug automation equipment, robotics, and integrated manufacturing processes.
• Optimize existing control systems for improved efficiency, reliability, and throughput.
• Provide technical support and rapid resolution for electrical and controls-related production issues.
• Develop and maintain accurate electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control system documentation.
• Commission new machinery, production lines, and control system upgrades.
• Ensure all control systems and installations comply with safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
• Proven proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens).
• Experience with HMI/SCADA system design, development, and implementation.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET).
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex electrical, control, and automation systems.
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and machine safety systems.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with industrial robotics programming and integration (e.g., Fanuc, Kuka, ABB).
• Proficiency with SCADA platforms like Ignition or FactoryTalk View SE, including database integration.
• Familiarity with industrial data historians (e.g., FactoryTalk Historian, OSIsoft PI) and data analytics tools.
• Knowledge of industrial network security best practices and protocols.

Job Titles That Should Apply

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