Automation Engineer - Kentwood Area

Automation Engineer | Kentwood, MI

Salary Range: $84,000 - $129,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Kentwood seeking Automation Engineers.

The Opportunity

We are collaborating with manufacturing firms in Kentwood that are seeking skilled Automation Engineers. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining high standards and are looking for professionals who can contribute effectively. By joining our network, you position yourself for opportunities aligned with your career goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and implement industrial automation solutions using PLCs, HMIs, and robotics.
• Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and SCADA systems.
• Integrate automation systems with existing manufacturing equipment and IT infrastructure (e.g., MES, ERP).
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve complex automation and control system failures to minimize downtime.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics, program comments, and operational manuals.
• Optimize manufacturing processes through continuous improvement of automation systems for efficiency and quality.
• Ensure all automation solutions comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Proficiency in programming and troubleshooting PLCs (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens) and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Experience with industrial robotics programming, integration, and maintenance.
• Strong understanding of industrial sensors, actuators, motor control, and vision systems.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and data acquisition.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with industrial vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence).
• Familiarity with MES/ERP integration for production data flow.
• Proficiency in data acquisition and analysis tools (e.g., Ignition SCADA, Power BI).
• Experience with robotic simulation software (e.g., Process Simulate, RoboDK).

Job Titles That Should Apply

Automation Specialist, Industrial Automation Engineer, Process Automation Engineer, Software Automation Engineer, Test Automation Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Automation Architect

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.