Controls Engineer in Litchfield

Job Description

StaffBright is seeking a hands-on, technically strong Controls Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, production-driven environment. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building automation systems from the ground up, owning PLC programming, and playing a key role in bringing advanced manufacturing equipment online.

This is a fully onsite, full-time opportunity based in Litchfield, MI, with a cutting-edge, growth-oriented organization developing innovative technology that is transforming building performance.

What You Will Be Doing

• Design, develop, and program PLC systems from scratch (ladder logic and structured text) for new automated manufacturing equipment
• Modify and optimize existing PLC programs to improve cycle time, reduce downtime, and increase throughput
• Lead integration and commissioning of automation hardware including sensors, vision systems, motion control, and robotics
• Troubleshoot and debug PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and automation systems to resolve production issues
• Support equipment startup, FAT/SAT, commissioning, and full integration into manufacturing operations
• Develop I/O maps, configure communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, ProfiNet), and ensure proper system integration
• Analyze manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks and implement improvements
• Partner cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and process engineering teams
• Create and maintain technical documentation including schematics, FDS, and PLC/HMI code standards
• Train maintenance and production teams on new systems and upgrades

What We Need From You

To be considered for this role, candidates must have the following experience and skills:

• 7+ years of hands-on PLC programming experience, including writing programs from scratch
• Strong experience with Allen-Bradley / Studio 5000 (Siemens or Omron exposure is a plus)
• Background in manufacturing environments with a focus on production support
• Proven ability to design, program, and commission new automation systems and equipment
• Experience troubleshooting complex automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and motion control
• Strong understanding of industrial communication protocols and system integration
• Ability to work cross-functionally and support high-performance production environments

All-Star Skillset

The ideal candidate will also bring any or all of the following:

• Experience with robotics (Fanuc, KUKA, ABB, Kawasaki)
• Exposure to vacuum systems, thermal processes, or glass manufacturing
• Experience in highly customizable or advanced manufacturing environments (non-automotive backgrounds welcome)
• Strong continuous improvement mindset with experience optimizing uptime and cycle time
• Ability to create and enforce controls and automation standards

The Perks

• Competitive base salary (Up to $130K, with flexibility for top talent)
• 10% bonus + company equity plan
• Relocation assistance available
• Opportunity to build automation systems from scratch and make a visible impact
• High-growth environment with cutting-edge technology
• Direct exposure to leadership and influence on engineering direction
• Collaborative, hands-on culture with strong team alignment

StaffBright – Who We Are

StaffBright connects exceptional professionals with fulfilling opportunities in Finance, IT, Engineering, and Sales and Marketing. By partnering with industry-leading organizations, we help accelerate careers while delivering outstanding results for our clients. At StaffBright, we go beyond traditional staffing by fostering close collaboration with our clients, recruiters, and candidates to ensure talent needs are met efficiently. Our commitment to building long-term relationships and driving success sets us apart as a trusted partner in the staffing industry.