Automation Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer Level 3

Company: General Motors (GM)

Locations: Warren, MI (Hybrid) | Saginaw, MI | Defiance, OH

Duration: 12 Months (Potential Extension/Conversion)

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 1st Shift (Core hours: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM)

Hours: ~40/week + some overtime as needed

Travel: Minimal to moderate (plant support & supplier buy-offs)

Openings: 4

Position Overview

General Motors is seeking Controls Engineers (Level 3) to design, develop, and optimize automation systems supporting the future of automotive manufacturing. This role involves working on cutting-edge automation, robotics, and PLC systems across multiple plant environments.

You will play a key role in launching new production systems, improving existing operations, and ensuring reliability, efficiency, and safety across manufacturing lines.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI systems for manufacturing equipment
• Develop and support automation systems from concept through commissioning
• Integrate and support robotics systems (e.g., Fanuc, cobots)
• Perform debugging, testing, and system optimization during launches
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, process, IT, operations)
• Support plant operations, including troubleshooting during live production
• Participate in supplier equipment buy-offs (FAT/SAT)
• Drive continuous improvement in safety, cycle time, and system performance
• Ensure compliance with industrial safety and quality standards

Required Qualifications

• 4+ years of Controls Engineering experience
• Strong experience with:
• PLC programming (Rockwell/Allen-Bradley – Studio 5000, RSLogix)
• HMI development (FactoryTalk or similar)
• Experience working in industrial or manufacturing environments
• Ability to troubleshoot under production pressure
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently and take initiative

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
• Experience in automotive manufacturing
• Experience with Siemens PLCs
• Hands-on experience with robotics integration
• Familiarity with MES systems, networking, and data collection
• Prior in-plant launch or commissioning experience

Work Environment

• Mix of office and plant floor settings
• High collaboration with engineering and operations teams
• Exposure to advanced manufacturing technologies
• Hybrid flexibility available for Warren-based roles

Why This Role?

• Work on cutting-edge automation and robotics
• Be part of major system launches in automotive manufacturing
• Gain hands-on experience in high-impact production environments
• Opportunity for extension or full-time conversion