Apply only if you have worked in automotive manufacturing, OEM or Tier one companies.
Job Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Director of Engineering, Manufacturing & Automation to lead the strategic, operational, and financial performance of a growing organization serving the automotive manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation technology, capital equipment, automotive OEMs, and Tier 1 suppliers, with a proven track record of driving growth, operational excellence, and profitability.
The Director will work closely with senior leadership and key stakeholders to develop and execute strategic initiatives, optimize operations, foster innovation, and strengthen the company's competitive position in the marketplace.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:Develop and implement the company’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with long-term goals and market opportunities.Mange all aspects of the organization’s operations.Cultivate innovation and continuously enhance the company's competitive position in the marketplace.Operational Management:Oversee completion of all Projects, ensuring products are delivered efficiently and on budget.Develop and maintain systems for measuring operational performance and efficiency, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and continuous improvement initiatives.Drive operational efficiencies and identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.Financial Oversight:Establish financial goals, budgets, and forecasts, and ensure that the company meets its financial objectives.Oversee capital investment strategies and optimize profitability through cost control, resource management, and pricing strategies.Manage relationships with financial institutions, investors, and other stakeholders to secure necessary funding for expansion, innovation, and growth.Team Leadership & Development:Build and lead a high-performance leadership team, ensuring effective delegation, motivation, and development of talent at all levels of the organization.Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement across all departments.Provide mentorship and coaching to senior managers, promoting a collaborative and solution-oriented work environment.Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:Serve as the face of the company in interactions with external stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, industry associations, and the public.Develop and maintain strong relationships with key customers, business partners, and investors to support business growth.Communicate the company’s vision, mission, and values internally and externally, ensuring alignment and buy-in from all stakeholders.Risk Management & Compliance:Ensure that the company operates in full compliance with applicable regulations, including environmental, health, and safety standards.Identify and mitigate risks related to operations, supply chain disruptions, market conditions, and financial stability.Oversee corporate governance and ensure that the company adheres to ethical business practices.Innovation & Technology Integration:Drive the adoption of new technologies to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.Encourage a culture of innovation across the organization to stay ahead of industry trends and customer demands.Qualifications:
Education:BS in, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred).Experience:At least 5-10 years of progressive leadership experience, with a proven track record in managing large-scale operations – preferably with Automation and Capital Equipment.Experience in strategic planning, operational management, and financial oversight.Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, supply chain management, lean principles, and industry standards with the Automotive OEMs.Experience with budgeting, financial forecasting, and managing multi-million-dollar P&L responsibilities.Entrepreneurship running a personal company is a plus.Skills and Competencies:Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate, inspire, and develop a diverse workforce.Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with internal and external stakeholders.Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze complex business challenges and devise effective solutions.High level of business acumen and financial literacy, with experience in managing profitability and business growth.Experience with digital transformation, automation, and technology integration in manufacturing settings is a plus.Personal Attributes:Visionary with a focus on long-term growth and sustainability.Results-driven, with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.Integrity, professionalism, and commitment to ethical leadership.Working Conditions:
Full-time, on-site position with occasional travel required.Competitive compensation package, including performance-based incentives and benefits.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read Less
Apply only if you have worked in automotive manufacturing, OEM or Tier one companies.
Job Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Vice President to lead the strategic, operational, and financial performance of a growing organization serving the automotive manufacturing industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in automation technology, capital equipment, automotive OEMs, and Tier 1 suppliers, with a proven track record of driving growth, operational excellence, and profitability.
The VP will work closely with senior leadership and key stakeholders to develop and execute strategic initiatives, optimize operations, foster innovation, and strengthen the company's competitive position in the marketplace.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership:
Develop and implement the company’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with long-term goals and market opportunities.Mange all aspects of the organization’s operations.Cultivate innovation and continuously enhance the company's competitive position in the marketplace.Operational Management:
Oversee completion of all Projects, ensuring products are delivered efficiently and on budget.Develop and maintain systems for measuring operational performance and efficiency, including key performance indicators (KPIs) and continuous improvement initiatives.Drive operational efficiencies and identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.Financial Oversight:
Establish financial goals, budgets, and forecasts, and ensure that the company meets its financial objectives.Oversee capital investment strategies and optimize profitability through cost control, resource management, and pricing strategies.Manage relationships with financial institutions, investors, and other stakeholders to secure necessary funding for expansion, innovation, and growth.Team Leadership & Development:
Build and lead a high-performance leadership team, ensuring effective delegation, motivation, and development of talent at all levels of the organization.Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement across all departments.Provide mentorship and coaching to senior managers, promoting a collaborative and solution-oriented work environment.Stakeholder Engagement & Communication:
Serve as the face of the company in interactions with external stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, industry associations, and the public.Develop and maintain strong relationships with key customers, business partners, and investors to support business growth.Communicate the company’s vision, mission, and values internally and externally, ensuring alignment and buy-in from all stakeholders.Risk Management & Compliance:
Ensure that the company operates in full compliance with applicable regulations, including environmental, health, and safety standards.Identify and mitigate risks related to operations, supply chain disruptions, market conditions, and financial stability.Oversee corporate governance and ensure that the company adheres to ethical business practices.Innovation & Technology Integration:
Drive the adoption of new technologies to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality.Encourage a culture of innovation across the organization to stay ahead of industry trends and customer demands.
Qualifications:
Education:
BS in, Engineering, Manufacturing, or related fieldMBA (preferred)Experience:
At least 5-10 years of progressive leadership experience, with a proven track record in managing large-scale operations – preferably with Automation and Capital Equipment.Experience in strategic planning, operational management, and financial oversight.Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, supply chain management, lean principles, and industry standards with the Automotive OEMs.Experience with budgeting, financial forecasting, and managing multi-million-dollar P&L responsibilities.Entrepreneurship running a personal company or start-up is a plus.
Skills and Competencies:
Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate, inspire, and develop a diverse workforce.Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with internal and external stakeholders.Strategic thinker with the ability to analyze complex business challenges and devise effective solutions.High level of business acumen and financial literacy, with experience in managing profitability and business growth.Experience with digital transformation, automation, and technology integration in manufacturing settings is a plus.Personal Attributes:
Visionary with a focus on long-term growth and sustainability.Results-driven, with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes.Integrity, professionalism, and commitment to ethical leadership.Working Conditions:
Full-time, on-site position with occasional travel required.Competitive compensation package, including performance-based incentives and benefits.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read Less
Industrial Automation & Technical Sales Support
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Application Engineer with a strong background in industrial automation and a proven track record supporting sales and business development in complex, large-scale environments. In this role, you will serve as the technical and commercial bridge between Sales, Engineering, and Purchasing, developing accurate cost estimates and technical proposals for opportunities ranging from spare part orders to $20M+ automotive and defense automation projects.
The ideal candidate will be skilled at interpreting complex customer specifications and statements of work, collaborating across departments to build complete estimates, and producing professional proposals that clearly define scope, inclusions, exclusions, and exceptions.
This is primarily an office-based role with occasional plant visits.
Key Responsibilities
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)6+ years of experience in application engineering, sales engineering, or technical estimating within an industrial automation environmentProven experience developing cost estimates and proposals for complex automation projects in the automotive and/or defense sectorsStrong ability to interpret and decompose customer specifications, SOWs, and RFQ documents into quotable scope itemsExperience estimating both material and labor costs for large-scale automated systemsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel including pivot tables, complex formulas, and cost model developmentProficiency with Microsoft Word for creating professional technical proposalsExperience using ERP systems to retrieve historical pricing, component data, and supplier informationAbility to read and interpret 2D plant layout drawings in AutoCAD or equivalent softwareExperience writing Statements of Work for subcontractors in a machine automation or systems integration environmentStrong understanding of industrial automation systems and components including:ControlsElectrical systemsMechanical systemsHydraulicsPneumaticsConveyorsRoboticsExperience working with CRM platforms and supporting sales pipeline reportingExcellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working for a custom automation integrator, systems integrator, or OEM machine builderFamiliarity with defense contracting requirements, ITAR compliance, or government procurement processesKnowledge of controls platforms such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens, including associated component pricingExperience supporting proposals for conveyor systems, material handling systems, or plant-wide skilled trades installations
Work Environment
Primarily office-basedOccasional travel to customer facilities and manufacturing plants as needed
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experienceComprehensive benefits packageOpportunities for career growth and advancementCollaborative and technically challenging work environment
Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read Less
Position Summary
Our team is seeking a self-managed salesperson who is passionate about selling, loves to be challenged, genuinely cares about their clients, and wants to win. Simply put, you will prospect and visit potential customers, offer solutions, and close the deal to drive customer satisfaction and company revenue. This is a field-based role requiring significant travel serving industrial automation customers in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. If you are an A-player who thrives with limited supervision and brings deep knowledge of industrial automation, we want to hear from you.
Core Role Requirements
Job Functions
• Prospect, visit, and develop relationships with new and existing customers to generate new business opportunities
• Present and sell company products and services to new and existing customers
• Reach sales targets by established deadlines, performing at a high level with limited supervision in a remote capacity
• Develop and execute commercial business strategies to expand the company’s brand and market presence
• Create professional sales materials and technical presentations tailored to customer needs
• Proactively conduct research on potential clients and identify industry marketing opportunities
• Set follow-up appointments and keep customers informed of the company’s latest developments
• Resolve customer inquiries and manage accounts with a focus on long-term satisfaction and trust
• Lead contract negotiations and manage the commercial aspects of customer engagements
• Strategize with internal teams to identify new product opportunities and expand the customer base
• Work cross-functionally with multiple business units to acquire operational knowledge and execute departmental initiatives
• Maintain accurate records in the company CRM and support regular sales reporting
Core Qualifications
• 5+ years of experience as a Sales Account Manager in the industrial automation sector
• Strong customer management, commercial business strategy, and presentation skills
• Excellent follow-up and negotiation skills with a proven ability to close
• Experience with CRM platforms
• Comfortable presenting in front of large groups and executive-level audiences
• Willingness to work flexible hours depending on customer or project schedules
• Ability to build rapport and maintain long-term trust with clients
• Detail-oriented with strong deadline management and follow-through
Who You Are
• An A-player who has never shied away from getting it done — self-motivated, driven, and accountable
• Trustworthy, team-oriented, and someone who sees the value in collaborating with a high-performing team
• Calm under pressure with the ability to navigate complex customer situations
• A people-person with a professional presence able to connect with clients at all levels
• Genuinely passionate about the automotive industry and industrial automation
Specialization: Wheel & Tire Assembly
Segment Overview
This position focuses on the Wheel and Tire Assembly Production segment, serving Tire Room operations at major automotive OE and Tier 1 manufacturers. Candidates must have an existing network and be actively selling within this space today.
Segment-Specific Job Functions
• Sell into Wheel and Tire Assembly accounts including Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, Voltava, Oakley, Piston Group, Hyundai-Mobis, and all major Wheel and Tire Assembly Manufacturers
• Develop and grow relationships within Tire Room operations at OE and Tier 1 facilities
Segment-Specific Qualifications
• 5+ years of experience specifically within the Wheel and Tire Assembly Production industry
• Must have an existing network and be currently selling within the Wheel and Tire industry
• US Citizen with valid US Driver’s License and Passport; personal vehicle required (mileage reimbursed by company)
• Detroit-based hybrid position, primarily US travel with some international
• Understanding of Wheel and Tire assembly machinery including Robot Loading/Unloading, Mounters, Inflators, Bead Exercisers, Balancers, Tire Uniformity systems, Vision Stations, Stemmers, and Conveyance equipment
Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read LessIndustrial Automation & Technical Sales Support
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Application Engineer with a strong background in industrial automation and a proven track record supporting sales and business development in complex, large-scale environments. In this role, you will serve as the technical and commercial bridge between Sales, Engineering, and Purchasing, developing accurate cost estimates and technical proposals for opportunities ranging from spare part orders to $20M+ automotive and defense automation projects.
The ideal candidate will be skilled at interpreting complex customer specifications and statements of work, collaborating across departments to build complete estimates, and producing professional proposals that clearly define scope, inclusions, exclusions, and exceptions.
This is primarily an office-based role with occasional plant visits.
Key Responsibilities
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)6+ years of experience in application engineering, sales engineering, or technical estimating within an industrial automation environmentProven experience developing cost estimates and proposals for complex automation projects in the automotive and/or defense sectorsStrong ability to interpret and decompose customer specifications, SOWs, and RFQ documents into quotable scope itemsExperience estimating both material and labor costs for large-scale automated systemsAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel including pivot tables, complex formulas, and cost model developmentProficiency with Microsoft Word for creating professional technical proposalsExperience using ERP systems to retrieve historical pricing, component data, and supplier informationAbility to read and interpret 2D plant layout drawings in AutoCAD or equivalent softwareExperience writing Statements of Work for subcontractors in a machine automation or systems integration environmentStrong understanding of industrial automation systems and components including:ControlsElectrical systemsMechanical systemsHydraulicsPneumaticsConveyorsRoboticsExperience working with CRM platforms and supporting sales pipeline reportingExcellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsPreferred Qualifications
Experience working for a custom automation integrator, systems integrator, or OEM machine builderFamiliarity with defense contracting requirements, ITAR compliance, or government procurement processesKnowledge of controls platforms such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens, including associated component pricingExperience supporting proposals for conveyor systems, material handling systems, or plant-wide skilled trades installationsWork Environment
Primarily office-basedOccasional travel to customer facilities and manufacturing plants as neededCompensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experienceComprehensive benefits packageOpportunities for career growth and advancementCollaborative and technically challenging work environmentPosition Summary
We are seeking a Senior Controls Hardware Engineer with extensive experience designing, documenting, and supporting industrial automation hardware systems. This role is focused on the complete electrical hardware design lifecycle for custom automated machinery, including electrical, controls, hydraulic, pneumatic, and safety systems.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in machine builder or automation integrator environments and possesses deep expertise in electrical panel design, power distribution, industrial controls hardware, safety system design, electrical standards compliance, and manufacturing support. This is a hands-on engineering role requiring practical knowledge of how industrial control panels are designed, built, wired, tested, certified, and supported throughout the machine lifecycle.
The successful candidate will work closely with customers, project teams, panel shop personnel, and commissioning teams to ensure designs are technically sound, manufacturable, code compliant, and delivered on schedule.
Key Responsibilities
Hardware Design & Engineering
Design electrical, controls, hydraulic, pneumatic, and safety systems for custom automated equipment.
Create complete electrical drawing packages using AutoCAD Electrical and/or EPLAN including:
Schematics
Panel layouts
Device layouts
Wiring diagrams
Terminal plans
I/O drawings
Power distribution drawings
Design 120VAC, 240VAC, and 480VAC control systems and power distribution architectures.
Develop PLC hardware architectures including:
Processors
Remote I/O systems
Network infrastructure
Servo drive systems
Safety hardware
Specify industrial controls hardware including:
Allen-Bradley ControlLogix / CompactLogix platforms
Siemens PLC hardware
Allen-Bradley Kinetix drives
Siemens S120 drive systems
VFDs
Safety relays
Safety PLCs
Design machine safety systems compliant with customer requirements and applicable standards.
Panel Design & Manufacturing Support
Design industrial control panels ranging from small machine controls to large multi-door 480VAC enclosures.
Develop complete Bills of Material (BOMs) and release documentation to procurement.
Provide technical guidance to panel shop personnel during panel construction and testing.
Review panel builds for compliance with engineering standards and electrical codes.
Support panel troubleshooting, startup, and machine commissioning activities.
Maintain complete as-built documentation and revision records.
Standards & Compliance
Design systems in accordance with:
NEC (National Electrical Code)
NFPA 79
UL508A
CE requirements
Customer-specific standards
Perform:
Full Load Amp (FLA) calculations
Short Circuit Current Rating (SCCR) calculations
Component sizing
Wire sizing
Circuit protection calculations
Arc Flash considerations
Determine appropriate enclosure ratings and component selection using IEC and NEMA standards.
Participate in third-party certification reviews and compliance audits.
Safety Engineering
Design machine safety architectures.
Determine machine safety ratings and required performance levels.
Perform safety-related calculations including:
Light curtain safety distance calculations
Safety circuit validation
Risk mitigation assessments
Support implementation of safety PLCs and integrated machine safety systems.
Documentation & Technical Writing
Develop and maintain:
Electrical design packages
Operations manuals
Maintenance manuals
Troubleshooting guides
Installation documentation
Review and critique technical documentation prepared by internal personnel or third-party technical writers.
Ensure documentation packages accurately support machine build, installation, operation, and maintenance.
Customer & Project Support
Work directly with customer engineering teams to review designs and ensure compliance with customer standards.
Support technical reviews, design reviews, and customer acceptance activities.
Provide technical support during machine build and startup phases.
Assist sales and applications engineering teams with:
Technical feasibility reviews
Cost estimation
Hardware architecture recommendations
Change order evaluations
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience.
5+ years of controls hardware design experience in a machine builder, OEM, or automation integrator environment.
Strong experience using AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or both.
Experience designing industrial control panels and electrical systems for automated machinery.
Experience with Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens hardware platforms.
Strong understanding of:
PLC hardware architecture
Servo drive systems
Industrial networking
Safety systems
Power distribution
Experience with industrial networking protocols including:
EtherNet/IP
Profinet
DeviceNet
Modbus
Knowledge of NEC, NFPA 79, UL508A, and industrial electrical standards.
Experience supporting machine build, commissioning, and troubleshooting activities.
Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with both AutoCAD Electrical and EPLAN.
Experience performing SCCR calculations.
Experience with CE certification requirements.
Experience with Arc Flash assessments.
Experience with safety PLCs and machine risk assessments.
Experience specifying Kinetix, Siemens S120, or similar servo systems.
Prior panel build or electrical wiring experience.
Experience developing operations manuals and technical documentation packages.
Experience supporting sales, applications engineering, and cost estimation activities.
Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read Less
We are seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Electrician to serve as a Team Lead in our shop environment. In this role, you will take ownership of the electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and controls build of automation equipment from start to finish. You will lead a team of technicians, provide hands-on guidance and training, and serve as the primary point of accountability for on-time delivery and build quality. You will work closely with Controls Hardware Designers to resolve technical issues, refine designs, and drive continuous improvement across cost, quality, and efficiency. This role reports to the Shop Manager.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead the end-to-end electrical and controls build of industrial automation equipment, ensuring completion on time and in accordance with customer specifications
• Direct, mentor, and oversee a team of electricians and technicians, providing daily task assignments, training, and hands-on support
• Install, wire, and assemble electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and controls components including panels, conduit, cable tray, sensors, drives, and other automation hardware
• Build and support hydraulic systems including assembly, plumbing, and troubleshooting of hydraulic circuits and components
• Support the integration and wiring of conveyors, vision systems, industrial robots, servo motors, and safety devices including light curtains and area scanners
• Connect, wire, and perform basic checkout of PLC and HMI systems in coordination with the controls engineering team
• Oversee all equipment tagging, labeling, and safety placard installation to ensure compliance with customer requirements and applicable standards
• Develop and execute routing and mounting strategies for machines and full plant layout installations
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams, and mechanical drawings to guide build activities
• Ensure all work is performed in compliance with applicable industrial codes and standards
• Track and report build progress, time to completion, and open issues or risks to project management on a regular basis
• Partner with Controls Hardware Designers to identify and resolve technical issues, recommend design improvements, reduce build costs, and improve overall quality
• Perform quality checks throughout the build process to verify workmanship meets company and customer standards
• Coordinate with project management and other departments to maintain schedule awareness and flag potential delays early
• Overtime and weekend work required as needed to meet project deadlines
Qualifications
• 7+ years of experience in industrial electrical work, with a focus on automation equipment build and assembly
• Demonstrated experience leading or supervising a team of electricians or technicians in a shop or manufacturing environment
• Strong working knowledge of industrial codes and standards
• Proficiency reading and interpreting electrical schematics, pneumatic and hydraulic diagrams, and wiring drawings
• Hands-on experience with panel wiring, conduit installation, cable management, and controls component assembly
• Experience with hydraulic system assembly, plumbing, and troubleshooting
• Familiarity with conveyors, vision systems, robots, servo motors, and safety devices (light curtains, area scanners, e-stops, safety relays)
• Working knowledge of PLC and HMI systems at a wiring, connection, and basic checkout level
• Experience developing routing and mounting strategies for complex machines and plant-wide installations
• Solid understanding of pneumatic systems and components
• Experience overseeing equipment tagging, labeling, and safety placard programs
• Strong communication skills with the ability to report status and issues clearly to project management
• Ability to manage competing priorities and keep a team focused and on schedule
• Willingness to travel to plant sites as required
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience working directly with engineering or design teams to improve build processes
• Prior experience in a custom automation integrator or machine builder environment & familiarity with Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLC platforms at a wiring and I/O checkout level
Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read LessPosition Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated Project Engineer with a strong background in industrial automation to join our growing team. In this role, you will serve as the primary point of contact for customers while leading projects from initial concept through successful commissioning.
The ideal candidate will bridge the gap between technical execution and project management, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to customer specifications.
Key Responsibilities
Manage the full project lifecycle including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, execution, and project closeoutServe as the primary customer liaison by conducting meetings, providing project updates, and managing customer expectations throughout the projectDevelop and maintain project schedules, budgets, change orders, and technical documentationOversee the design, integration, and commissioning of industrial automation systems including:PLCsHMIsDrivesControl panelsCoordinate project execution with internal engineering, procurement, manufacturing, and field service teamsIdentify and resolve technical issues during design, installation, and startup phasesConduct customer site visits and support on-site commissioning and startup activitiesEnsure all projects comply with applicable codes, standards, and customer specificationsTrack project progress and proactively communicate risks, delays, and mitigation plansSupport continuous improvement initiatives related to engineering standards and project execution processes
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field10+ years of experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or project engineeringDemonstrated experience managing projects with responsibility for schedules, budgets, and deliverablesProficiency with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent systemsExperience with industrial automation system design and integrationStrong communication and organizational skills with the ability to work effectively with customers and cross-functional teamsExperience with project management tools and engineering documentation practicesAbility and willingness to travel to customer sites as required
Preferred Qualifications
PMP certification or equivalent project management trainingExperience with:SCADA systemsRoboticsMotion control systemsFamiliarity with:National Electrical Code (NEC)UL standardsNFPA standardsExperience in automotive, manufacturing, or industrial automation environments
Work Environment
Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and customer site environmentsTravel required based on project needs
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experienceComprehensive benefits packageOpportunities for professional development and career advancementCollaborative, team-oriented work environmentCompany DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read LessPosition Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Controls Engineer with deep expertise in industrial automation to join our team. In this role, you will serve as the technical lead for controls engineering activities on automation projects, owning all controls-related issues from design through commissioning.
The ideal candidate will work hands-on in a shop environment to program, configure, and troubleshoot automated machinery, support customer buyoffs, and travel to customer facilities for installation and startup activities. You will act as the primary technical point of contact for controls issues on assigned projects, driving resolution while keeping management informed of project status, risks, and technical challenges.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the technical lead for all controls engineering activities on assigned projectsIdentify, escalate, and resolve controls-related technical issues in a timely mannerCommunicate project status, technical risks, and open issues clearly to management and project stakeholdersDesign, develop, and program PLC-based control systems using:Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000 / RSLogix)Siemens (TIA Portal / Step 7)Develop and maintain HMI applications for operator interfaces and system visualizationProgram, configure, and commission Fanuc industrial robots including:Robot setupPath programmingIntegration with surrounding automation systemsWork in-shop during machine build and pre-shipment phases to:Program systemsConfigure hardwareTroubleshoot controls issuesSupport customer buyoffs and resolve punch-list items prior to shipmentTravel to customer facilities for:InstallationStartupCommissioningTechnical supportPerform system integration testing and troubleshoot hardware/software issues during commissioning and post-installationCollaborate with project engineers, mechanical teams, electricians, and customers to define and implement controls requirementsDevelop and maintain controls documentation including:Functional specificationsI/O listsElectrical schematicsOperator manualsProvide remote and on-site technical support after system commissioningMentor junior engineers and contribute to internal programming standards and best practices
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience3+ years of hands-on experience in industrial controls engineeringRequired proficiency with both:
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with SCADA systems and MES integrationPrior experience in:Automotive manufacturingFood & BeverageHeavy industrial manufacturingExperience with machine automation, robotic cells, and custom equipment integration
Work Environment
Hands-on shop environment with machine builds and testing activitiesTravel required for installation, commissioning, and customer supportCombination of office, manufacturing floor, and customer site work
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary based on experienceComprehensive benefits packageOpportunities for career advancement and technical leadershipCollaborative engineering-focused work environmentCompany DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most.Company DescriptionSAI Systems is a Metro Detroit-based staffing firm founded in 2008. Connecting top talent with the companies that need them most. Read Less