Lead Controls Engineer at Depatie Fluid Power in Portage, MI

Description

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and is eager to learn, adapt, and lead. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical foundation in industrial automation who is motivated to grow—we can teach product knowledge, but we’re looking for someone with initiative, work ethic, and a passion for continuous learning.

You’ll lead the design and delivery of control systems, PLC/HMI programming, robotics integration, and industrial automation solutions, while mentoring team members and collaborating cross-functionally.

Requirements

What You'll Do

• Lead controls engineering projects from concept through design, programming, testing, and commissioning 
• Design and develop PLC programs, HMI/SCADA systems, and embedded controls 
• Create electrical schematics, panel layouts, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) 
• Integrate industrial robots, motion control systems, and VFDs 
• Specify and implement process instrumentation and control components 
• Install, commission, and troubleshoot systems at customer sites 
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and project management teams 
• Mentor junior engineers and promote engineering best practices 
• Support Sales with project estimates, timelines, and technical input 
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and customer communication 
• Research and implement new technologies in automation and controls

What We're Looking For

• Strong initiative and willingness to take ownership 
• Eagerness to learn new technologies, platforms, and tools 
• Ability to adapt quickly in a dynamic, project-based environment 
• Comfortable working with and learning new software and automation technologies 
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting mindset 
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field 
• 3–10 years of experience in controls engineering or industrial automation 
• Experience with at least two of the following: 
• PLC Programming (Rockwell / Siemens / etc.) 
• HMI Development 
• SCADA Systems (Ignition, AVEVA, GE, etc.) 
• Robotics Integration 
• Motion Control / VFDs 
• Embedded Systems 
• Control Panel Design / Electrical Schematics 
• Familiarity with industrial networks and protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, IO-Link, DeviceNet) 
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar tools 
• Willingness to travel for commissioning and client support