Controls Software Engineer

Job title: Controls Software Engineer

Are you a hands-on Controls Software Engineer who enjoys solving complex automation challenges and seeing projects come to life on the factory floor? This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established global manufacturer with a strong reputation for innovation, advanced machining technologies, and engineering excellence.

Based in Farmington Hills, Michigan, this role offers the opportunity to work in a collaborative, team-oriented environment where engineers have direct involvement throughout the full project lifecycle. You'll partner with mechanical, electrical, and project engineering teams to develop cutting-edge automation solutions, support machine startups and commissioning efforts, and work directly with customers both domestically and internationally.

This is a growth-focused position with a stable organization that values employee contributions, professional development, open communication, and a strong team culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, debug, and commission controls software for automated manufacturing equipment.
• Program PLCs and machine controls using industry-standard automation platforms.
• Participate in project design reviews alongside mechanical and electrical engineering teams.
• Modify and troubleshoot electrical schematics and machine control systems.
• Configure and support HMI, motion control, and industrial networking systems.
• Coordinate with project managers to ensure projects are delivered on schedule and within scope.
• Perform machine startup, testing, debugging, and factory acceptance activities.
• Interface directly with customers during project execution, installation, and final acceptance.
• Support continuous improvement efforts and provide technical solutions to complex automation challenges.
• Travel up to 40% domestically and internationally to support customer installations and project commissioning.

Requirements

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline; equivalent controls engineering experience will also be considered.

• Minimum 7 years of relevant controls, automation, or machine software engineering experience.

• Experience programming PLCs using Ladder Logic, Function Block, or similar programming methods.

• Experience with one or more major automation platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or comparable controls systems.

• Understanding of industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, CANbus, RS232, or RS485.

• Experience supporting machine startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and field service activities.

• Knowledge of motion control systems, servo drives, and automated machinery.

• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings.

• Strong problem-solving, communication, and customer-facing skills.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.

• Willingness and ability to travel up to 40% as project needs require.

• The Planet Group is a global professional services firm delivering strategic staffing and advisory solutions. We operate at the intersection of talent and transformation - connecting the right people with the right opportunities. Named one of the fastest-growing private companies in the US, The Planet Group operates with a global reach and a performance-first mindset. We partner with clients to move fast, stay agile, and drive measurable results - building high-impact teams that fuel transformation and growth.

• The Planet Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.