Automation Engineer | St. Johns, MI

Salary Range: $86,000 - $131,000 depending on experience

Are you a forward-thinking professional with a passion for designing systems that improve efficiency and reduce manual processes? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in St. Johns seeking skilled Automation Engineers.

We are building our network of talent in this field across West Michigan and the broader manufacturing region Pivot Group Network serves. Our partner companies may or may not have an immediate opening for this exact role today, but we actively look for skilled professionals in the regions where they operate. If there is alignment now or in the near future, we reach out.

The Opportunity

We partner with manufacturers across St. Johns seeking Automation Engineers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy automation solutions for manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing automation systems to improve efficiency and reliability.
• Collaborate with production, maintenance, and engineering teams to identify automation opportunities.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation for automation systems and processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and industry regulations in all automation projects.
• Conduct training for operators and technicians on new automation equipment and procedures.
• Research and evaluate new automation technologies and trends to drive continuous improvement.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Automation Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in designing, developing, and deploying automation solutions within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley) and HMI/SCADA system development.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus).
• Experience with robotics (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB) and vision systems integration.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and optimize automated manufacturing processes.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence)
• Familiarity with SCADA/MES systems and their integration
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices in an industrial setting
• Certifications in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000)
• Experience with robotic simulation software (e.g., RoboDK, Visual Components)

Job Titles That Should Apply

Automation Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Industrial Automation Engineer, Process Automation Engineer, Manufacturing Automation Engineer, Automation Specialist, Automation Technician, Automation Lead, Automation Architect, Robotics Process Automation Engineer, RPA Developer, Automation Consultant

Why The Pivot Group Network

The Pivot Group Network 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. Learn more at https://www.thepivotgroup.org.

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 at https://www.thepivotgroup.org. The Pivot Group Network 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.