Automation Engineer | Battle Creek, MI

Salary Range: $80,000 - $125,000 depending on experience

Are you a skilled 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 dedicated to building meaningful connections in the manufacturing community. We are collaborating with companies in Battle Creek seeking experienced 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 are working with companies in Battle Creek that are adding Automation Engineers to their teams. These organizations value quality over speed in hiring. By connecting with us, you position yourself for opportunities that align with what you're looking for.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and deploy automation solutions for manufacturing processes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues with existing automation systems and equipment.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities and define project requirements.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including schematics, programming logic, and operational procedures.
• Conduct root cause analysis of automation system failures and implement corrective actions.
• Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance personnel on automation systems.
• Evaluate and recommend new automation technologies and software to improve efficiency and productivity.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in industrial automation, control systems, and robotics within a manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency in programming PLCs (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell) and HMI/SCADA systems.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus).
• Experience with robotic systems (e.g., Fanuc, KUKA, ABB) for material handling, assembly, or welding applications.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with Vision Systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence) for quality inspection and guidance.
• Familiarity with data acquisition and analysis tools (e.g., Ignition SCADA, SQL databases, Python scripting) for OEE and process optimization.
• Proficiency in industrial robotics programming (e.g., KUKA, FANUC, ABB) for material handling and assembly.
• Certification in Lean Manufacturing or Six Sigma methodologies.

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, PLC Programmer, SCADA Engineer

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.