Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Grand Rapids
Role Overview
A prominent manufacturing organization is seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer to manage sophisticated automation technologies, specifically focusing on vision-guided hardware and SCARA robotics. You will be responsible for overseeing new system deployments while maintaining daily production operations and driving ongoing process enhancements.
Primary Duties
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Create, build, and deploy control architectures for industrial processes and automated machinery
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Enhance the efficiency of pick-and-place robotic systems that utilize vision guidance
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Configure and program vision technology to improve error-proofing, alignment, and detection accuracy
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Maintain system reliability and performance by proactively troubleshooting robotic and vision control units
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Refine and author motion control, VFD, HMI, and PLC logic
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Identify and resolve technical faults within CNC, NC, PC, and PLC platforms
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Work alongside engineering staff to finalize system validations and adhere to project schedules
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Deliver essential technical guidance to maintenance, production, and interdisciplinary groups
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Drive manufacturing excellence by contributing to quality programs, product lifecycles, and process upgrades
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Resolve equipment and process malfunctions across pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical, and mechanical domains
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Support the transition of new products from the initial quoting phase through full-scale manufacturing
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Contribute to continuous improvement efforts, including Kaizen events and Lean methodologies
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Work with the Quality Assurance department to perform corrective actions and root cause investigations
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Manage or assist with automation and CapEx projects to ensure they remain within budget and on schedule
Required Qualifications
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Minimum of 5 years working within industrial automation or robotics
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Proven expertise in the application of machine vision systems
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Solid understanding of automation controls and PLC programming
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Demonstrated background in managing projects
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Background in automotive or industrial manufacturing sectors is preferred
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Proficiency in 2D CAD is mandatory; 3D CAD skills are a plus
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Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles
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Strong analytical problem-solving capabilities and the ability to function autonomously
Educational Background
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Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Automation, Controls Engineering, or a related discipline
Essential Skills
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Effective verbal and written communication along with collaborative teamwork
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Strong leadership potential and a keen eye for detail
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Advanced time management and critical thinking abilities
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Flexibility to work extra hours when the business requires
Physical Demands
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Capacity to spend long durations working on the manufacturing floor
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Ability to maneuver and lift objects weighing up to 40 lbs
Compensation and Perks
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Retirement savings plan (401k)
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Dental coverage
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Medical insurance
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Vacation and personal time off
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Vision care coverage
Work Environment: On-site
