Controls Engineer

ARS Robots (Automation and Robotic Solutions), a leading industrial automation firm in Michigan, is hiring a Controls Engineer (Contract-to-Hire) for its Shelby Township operations. The role involves PLC programming, system design, and machine startup using Rockwell or Siemens platforms. Candidates with 2+ years of experience in automation, robotics integration, or control systems are encouraged to apply. This hands-on position offers field exposure, professional growth, and long-term potential with a top-tier automation company.

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Career Opportunity – Controls Engineer at ARS Robots (Automation and Robotic Solutions)

Company Name: ARS Robots (Automation and Robotic Solutions)
Position Title: Controls Engineer (Contract-to-Hire)
Location: Shelby Township, Michigan, USA
Industry: Industrial Automation / Robotics / Control Systems
Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire (1099 Role)
Apply Link: Send your resume to jtruman@arsrobots.com
Official Website: http://arsrobots.com/

Job and Company Description

ARS Robots (Automation and Robotic Solutions) is a leading automation engineering company known for delivering complete robotic and control system solutions to industrial clients across North America. The company’s expertise spans robotics programming, PLC design, system integration, and training — all under one roof. With over a decade of experience serving industries such as automotive, manufacturing, and metal fabrication, ARS Robots has become a trusted partner for clients seeking reliability, precision, and innovation in automation.

ARS Robots believes that the future of manufacturing lies in intelligent automation. The company’s engineering and programming teams specialize in developing efficient, safe, and robust automation systems using advanced robotic platforms such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, MOTOMAN, KAWASAKI, Hyundai, UR, and NACHI. This multi-brand expertise allows them to provide flexible, scalable, and high-performance automation solutions that meet the unique needs of every project.

One of ARS’s strongest advantages is its ability to offer end-to-end project management — from concept and design to on-site installation and startup. With a dedicated 15,000 sq. ft. in-house facility equipped with state-of-the-art control systems, robots, and CNC machinery, ARS Robots delivers turnkey automation builds that minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.

Beyond project execution, ARS Robots is also passionate about training and skill development. Their certified instructors deliver advanced training programs in robotics and controls, equipping engineers and technicians with the skills required to succeed in the fast-paced world of automation. Through its training branch, AutomationTrainers.com, the company has trained numerous engineers who now contribute to leading automation firms globally.

The current opening for a Controls Engineer reflects the company’s growing project demands in Michigan and its continued focus on delivering excellence in automation and system commissioning.

Company Introduction

ARS Robots (Automation and Robotic Solutions) was established with a mission to revolutionize industrial automation through intelligent engineering, high-end technology, and skilled professionals. Over the years, the company has grown into a comprehensive automation provider that integrates robotic systems, PLC control design, and mechanical automation into seamless industrial operations.

The company’s foundation is built upon four core service pillars:

Robot Programming:
ARS Robots’ programming team possesses vast experience in configuring and programming leading robot brands including FANUC, ABB, KUKA, MOTOMAN, KAWASAKI, Hyundai, UR, and NACHI. This capability enables them to program robots for a wide range of applications such as welding, assembly, painting, and material handling.
Vision Applications:
The company also integrates robotic vision systems, enhancing automation accuracy and performance. These vision systems simplify complex processes like part recognition, alignment, and inspection, ensuring high precision in industrial production.
Controls Design & PLC Programming:
ARS specializes in the design, configuration, and development of PLC-based control systems, both stand-alone and networked. The company’s engineers are fluent in Rockwell (Allen-Bradley) and Siemens platforms — the most widely used systems in global manufacturing.
Automation Training & Development:
Through its training programs, ARS equips professionals with the practical knowledge and confidence to program, install, and troubleshoot automation systems. Training courses are available at multiple levels, ensuring both beginners and advanced engineers can benefit.

The company’s commitment to quality, safety, and performance is evident in every project it undertakes. From small-scale component programming to large facility-wide automation builds, ARS Robots consistently delivers excellence.

Job Description

ARS Robots is urgently hiring a Controls Engineer (Contract-to-Hire) for its operations in Shelby Township, Michigan (MI). This position is ideal for an automation professional who enjoys working in a hands-on, technical environment and is capable of writing PLC code, configuring systems, and starting up machines in real industrial settings.

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for developing, testing, and commissioning PLC programs and control systems, primarily using Rockwell and Siemens platforms. The engineer must have the ability to create control logic from scratch, integrate hardware and software components, and ensure that all systems are tested and fully functional before handover.

Key responsibilities include:

Designing, programming, and troubleshooting control systems using Allen-Bradley (Rockwell) and Siemens PLCs.
Participating in system startup and commissioning activities for automation projects.
Reading and interpreting electrical drawings, wiring diagrams, and control schematics.
Collaborating with mechanical and electrical teams to ensure smooth system integration.
Conducting system testing and validation to ensure all safety and performance requirements are met.
Identifying opportunities for process improvement and implementing automation solutions.
Providing on-site technical support during installations and system upgrades.
Documenting control logic, software revisions, and field modifications accurately.
Communicating progress, challenges, and updates to project leads or management.

This role is hands-on and field-oriented, requiring frequent interaction with machines, robots, and production systems. Candidates should expect 30–50% travel, mainly to customer sites for machine startups, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

As this is a 1099 contract role, the position offers flexibility and independence while maintaining long-term potential through a contract-to-hire structure. The candidate must be based in Michigan and have prior experience with PLC programming and industrial startup activities.

ARS Robots offers competitive compensation with travel expenses covered and a professional work environment that encourages learning and growth in the automation sector.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Controls Engineer position at ARS Robots, candidates should meet the following criteria:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, or Control Systems Engineering (or equivalent experience).
Experience: Minimum of 2 years of hands-on experience in PLC programming, automation systems integration, or machine startup.
Technical Proficiency:
- Must be skilled in Rockwell (Allen-Bradley) or Siemens PLC platforms.
- Capable of writing PLC code independently.
- Experience with HMI systems, robotics integration, and control panel troubleshooting is preferred.
System Knowledge: Familiarity with industrial robots such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, or MOTOMAN is an asset.
Location Requirement: Must be local to Michigan (Shelby Township or surrounding area).
Availability: Willing to travel 30–50% of the time to different sites for machine startup and commissioning.
Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Contract Type: This is a 1099 contractor role, requiring self-management and accountability.
Soft Skills:
- Strong communication and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent teamwork and time management skills.
- Ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced industrial setting.
- Commitment to safety and quality assurance.

Preferred candidates will have practical exposure to automation systems used in automotive manufacturing, assembly lines, or machine building environments.