Automation Engineer | Grand Rapids, MI

Salary Range: $84,000 - $129,000 depending on experience

Are you ready to take on a challenging and rewarding opportunity in {{role_field}}? The Pivot Group Network, a West Michigan manufacturing-focused recruiting group, is committed to building meaningful connections in manufacturing. We partner with leading companies in Grand Rapids seeking 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 collaborating with manufacturing firms in Grand Rapids that are seeking skilled Automation 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 and implement automated manufacturing systems.
• Troubleshoot and optimize existing automation equipment and processes.
• Develop and maintain PLC programs and HMI interfaces.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities and requirements.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for automation-related issues.
• Provide technical support and training to production and maintenance teams on automation systems.

Recommended Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience designing, implementing, and maintaining industrial automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA).
• Proficiency with programming languages relevant to automation (e.g., Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Python, C#).
• Demonstrated experience with robotics and robotic programming in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus).

Bonus Qualifications

• Experience with SCADA systems or distributed control systems (DCS).
• Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and their integration with manufacturing operations.
• Certifications in relevant automation platforms (e.g., Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000, Ignition SCADA).
• Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices for industrial control systems (ICS).
• Experience with vision systems or robotic automation in a production environment.

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.