Controls Engineer | Otsego, 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 Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting community growth. We are collaborating with leading companies in Otsego seeking Controls Engineers to lead and enhance their operations.

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 collaborating with manufacturing firms in Otsego that are seeking skilled Controls 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 test control systems for manufacturing processes.
• Program PLCs, HMIs, and industrial robots for automated equipment.
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and software issues in production machinery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on new product introductions and process improvements.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including electrical schematics and control narratives.
• Implement and optimize vision systems for quality control and process automation.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and industry regulations for control systems.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience designing, programming, and commissioning PLC-based control systems (e.g., Rockwell Automation, Siemens).
• Proficiency in HMI/SCADA development and configuration (e.g., FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Ignition).
• Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP).
• Experience with robotic systems and vision systems integration in manufacturing environments.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and other engineering documentation.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB).
• Familiarity with SQL databases and data historian systems (e.g., OSIsoft PI).
• Proficiency in a high-level programming language (e.g., Python, C#) for data analysis or custom tool development.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices for industrial control systems (ICS).
• Experience with vision systems for quality control or guidance applications.

Job Titles That Should Apply

Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, PLC Programmer, Robotics Engineer, Instrumentation Engineer, SCADA Engineer, Industrial Controls Engineer, Mechatronics Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Automation and Controls 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.