The Automation Controls Engineer is an entry-level role supporting industrial automation and control systems in General Motors manufacturing facilities across Southeast Michigan, Saginaw, Flint, Toledo or Lansing area . You will help keep production equipment safe, reliable, and capable by learning how to troubleshoot, maintain, and improve PLCs, HMIs, drives, robotics, and related controls hardware in a high-volume plant environment.
This role is part of an exciting Associate/Entry-Level Automation Controls development program focused on building a long-term pipeline of Controls Engineers for GM Manufacturing. You will have access to structured training, on-the-job learning, and mentorship to grow into higher-level Controls roles over time.
This is an on-site role at one or more Southeast Michigan/Toledo or Lansing area manufacturing locations, and may require off-shift and weekend work based on production needs.
Under the guidance of experienced Controls Engineers and skilled trades professionals, the Automated Controls Engineer will support manufacturing operations while developing foundational controls engineering skills.
Controls Troubleshooting & Production Support
-
Assist in analyzing, troubleshooting, and diagnosing basic electrical and controls issues on production equipment, including presses, machining centers, assembly stations, robots, and material handling systems.
-
Support data gathering during downtime events by reviewing fault history, PLC logic status, HMI alarms, and system diagnostics.
PLC / HMI Learning & Application
Electrical & Controls Systems Knowledge
-
Develop a working knowledge of the GM Common Controls Architecture, including PLCs, HMIs, drive controllers, industrial robotics, machine vision, and communications networks.
-
Learn how to read, interpret, and modify electrical drawings, schematics, and I/O documentation.
Commissioning, Changes & Documentation
-
Participate in commissioning activities for new or modified equipment, including I/O checkout, device verification, and sequence testing.
-
Assist in maintaining accurate as‑built documentation such as electrical drawings, I/O lists, and backups of PLC, HMI, and robot programs.
Partnership with Maintenance & Operations
-
Support implementation of small controls improvements, such as sensor upgrades, standardized diagnostics, and minor safety enhancements.
Safety & Standards Compliance
Required Qualifications:
Education & Experience – candidates must meet one of the following:
-
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or closely related field and:
-
No prior full-time experience required ; co-op, internship, military, or project experience in industrial automation strongly preferred.
-
Associate degree in Electrical/Electronic Technology, Industrial Automation, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a closely related field; and:
-
Relevant hands-on experience (e.g., co-op/internship, military, skilled trades, systems integrator, or ~1+ year in an industrial controls/automation environment).
OR
-
Completion of an accredited vocational or technical certificate in industrial electricity, industrial automation, mechatronics, robotics, or PLC/controls ; and typically ~1+ years of directly related industrial experience (maintenance, controls, systems integration, or similar) demonstrating equivalent skills.
Work Location & Arrangement
-
Work Location: On-site at one or more General Motors manufacturing facilities in the Lansing, Toledo, Flint, Saginaw, Orion, and Warren area.
