Automation Engineer | Plainwell, MI

Salary Range: $82,000 - $127,000 depending on experience

Are you a detail-oriented 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 fostering meaningful relationships and supporting career advancement. We are collaborating with leading companies in Plainwell 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 Plainwell 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

• Designs, develops, and implements automation solutions for manufacturing processes.
• Programs and configures PLCs, HMIs, robots, and other automation equipment.
• Troubleshoots and resolves issues with existing automation systems and machinery.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to identify and implement process improvements through automation.
• Develops and maintains technical documentation for automation systems, including schematics and operating procedures.
• Conducts testing and validation of new automation solutions to ensure performance and reliability.
• Provides technical support and training to production and maintenance personnel on automation systems.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years experience with PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell, etc.) and HMI development.
• Proficient in industrial communication protocols (OPC-UA, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with robotic systems (UR, KUKA, FANUC) and vision systems.
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot automation solutions in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of safety standards and regulations in industrial automation.

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SCADA systems and historian databases.
• Familiarity with ISA-95 and other industry standards for manufacturing operations.
• Strong understanding of networking protocols and industrial communication (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET).
• Proficiency in scripting languages like Python for data analysis and automation tasks.
• Knowledge of cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) and their application in industrial IoT (IIoT).

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

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.