General Motors

Controls Engineer

General Motors$80K — $100K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or 4+ years of equivalent experience
  • 2+ years of experience in controls, automation, or manufacturing
  • Proficient in programming and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley PLCs
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Effective written and verbal communication abilities
  • Collaborative skills to work with cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

  • Lead controls-related projects including installations and enhancements
  • Troubleshoot and program PLCs for plant operations
  • Identify root causes during downtime events and expedite system restoration
  • Collaborate with skilled trades to address equipment issues
  • Enhance performance of conveyors and automated storage systems
  • Develop project plans with cost estimates and timelines
  • Monitor and report project progress and outcomes

Benefits

  • Strong professional growth opportunities
  • Hands-on experience with new technologies
  • Opportunity to shape future plant automation
  • Direct impact on plant performance and efficiency
  • Participation in cross-functional teamwork and relationships
Full Job Description
Job Description

The CCA Maintenance Team is new and evolving, offering a unique opportunity to help shape the future of plant automation. As automation expands across the site, this role provides hands-on experience with new technologies while supporting legacy systems. It also offers strong professional growth opportunities as future roles and responsibilities continue to develop.

As a Controls Engineer, you will lead controls-focused projects, provide critical programmable logic controller (PLC) troubleshooting, and drive plantwide improvements. You will work closely with skilled trades and cross-functional teams to reduce downtime, improve system performance, and ensure reliable operation of manufacturing equipment such as conveyors and automated storage systems. This is a highly visible role with direct impact on plant performance and efficiency.

What You'll Do
  • Lead controls-related projects including equipment installation, upgrades, and improvements
  • Troubleshoot and program programmable logic controllers to support plant operations
  • Support downtime events by identifying root causes and restoring systems quickly
  • Partner with skilled trades to resolve equipment and automation issues
  • Improve performance of conveyors, automated storage systems, and legacy equipment
  • Develop project plans, cost estimates, and timelines
  • Track and report project progress and results
  • Identify and implement opportunities to improve system reliability and reduce waste
  • Support preventative maintenance and system optimization efforts
  • Build and improve production monitoring and alert systems for legacy equipment
  • Participate in plant meetings and provide technical input to improve performance
  • Train and guide technical team members on controls systems and troubleshooting
  • Maintain documentation for systems, changes, and projects
  • Follow and promote safe work practices at all times
  • Provide off-shift and weekend support as needed


Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or 4+ years of equivalent experience
  • 2+ years of experience in controls, automation, or manufacturing
  • Experience programming and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley programmable logic controllers
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Willingness to provide off-shift and weekend support
  • Ability to work onsite in a manufacturing environment
  • Minimal travel required
  • Basic computer, documentation, and technical writing skills


What Can Give You a Competitive Advantage (Preferred Qualifications)
  • Experience with supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems such as Ignition
  • Knowledge of industrial networking and communication protocols
  • Experience with machine safety systems and standards
  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical problems
  • Strong collaboration and teamwork skills
  • Ability to influence and drive change in a fast-paced environment
  • Initiative to identify and implement improvements
  • Strong accountability and follow-through
  • Clear and effective communication skills
  • Ability to train and support others in technical topics
  • Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on results

GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc).This role is categorized as onsite. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location on a full-time basis.This job is not eligible for relocation benefits. Any relocation costs would be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
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About General Motors

General Motors Company engages in the manufacture and sale of cars and trucks in the United States, China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. It offers sedans, crossovers, sport utility vehicles, pick-up trucks, coupes, sports/convertibles and hybrid vehicles, hatchbacks/wagons, and vans, as well as mini cars in India. The company also provides parts and accessories, such as iPod and MP3 compatibility, mobility accessories, performance parts, AC parts and services, and merchandise. In addition, it offers vehicle safety, security, and information services. The company provides used vehicles. It offers its products through dealers and distributors. General Motors Company was formerly known as NGMCO, Inc. and changed its name to General Motors Company in July 2009. The company was incorporated in 2009 and is based in Detroit, Michigan. It operates manufacturing facilities in India, the United States, and Canada. General Motors Company operates as a subsidiary of the United States Department of The Treasury. General Motors led global vehicle sales for 77 consecutive years from 1931 through 2007, longer than any other automaker, and is currently among the world's largest automakers by vehicle unit sales. General Motors acts in most countries outside the USA via wholly-owned subsidiaries but operates in China through 10 joint ventures. GM's OnStar subsidiary provides vehicle safety, security, and information services. In 2009, General Motors shed several brands, closing Saturn, Pontiac, and Hummer, and emerged from a government-backed Chapter 11 reorganization. In 2010, GM made an initial public offering IPOs to date and returned to profitability later that year.

General Motors Careers

Join the dynamic team at General Motors, a global leader in automotive innovation and technology. At General Motors, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career forward while contributing to a legacy of engineering excellence.

Work You’ll Do

Embark on a career with General Motors to drive the future of mobility. Our team is dedicated to redefining the automotive landscape through innovation and leadership in electric vehicles and sustainable solutions. By joining us, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, teamwork, and continuous professional growth.

Transform Your Career

General Motors is not just a company; it's a community where you can grow your skills alongside the best in the industry. Our leadership is committed to providing every employee—from interns to senior professionals—with opportunities for career advancement, leadership development, and diversity training.

Innovate and Lead

At General Motors, innovation is at the core of everything we do. From research and development to manufacturing, our teams work collaboratively to lead the industry with cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices. We encourage our employees to think big and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Join Our Global Team

As part of our global workforce, you will collaborate with talented individuals who are passionate about shaping the future of transportation. General Motors offers a variety of career paths in engineering, design, IT, marketing, and more. With over 155,000 employees worldwide, our network provides expansive opportunities for networking and professional development.

Internship Programs and Employment Benefits

Start your career journey with a General Motors internship, where you can apply your academic knowledge to real-world projects. Our internships provide a robust foundation in the automotive industry, with mentorship from experienced leaders. Full-time employees enjoy a wealth of benefits, including comprehensive health care, retirement plans, and performance bonuses, ensuring that your hard work is rewarded.

Explore Job Opportunities

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, General Motors offers positions that leverage your unique skills. Our hiring process is designed to identify and nurture talent, focusing on aligning your capabilities with the right opportunities for growth within the company.

Stay Connected

Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. At General Motors, we look for innovative, driven, and solution-oriented team players. Explore the possibilities that await you in a career at General Motors.

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Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities available at General Motors. Embark on a journey of growth, innovation, and leadership at General Motors. Shape your future in an environment that fosters diversity, learning, and the pursuit of excellence. Join us and redefine the roads of tomorrow.
Learn more about General Motors
Size
157,000 employees
Market Cap
$46.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.4 billion
Founded
1908
5 Year Trend
-3.2%
Revenue
$122.4 billion
NASDAQ

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