Controls Engineer/Automation Programmer

Proficient Machine and Automation | Byron Center, MI

Proficient Machine and Automation is looking for a hands-on controls programmer to join our team.

We’re a small, hardworking company that designs and builds custom machines and automation equipment. We take pride in our work, and we’ve built our reputation by taking care of our customers and delivering good equipment.

Our controls team wears several hats. Along with programming, you’ll work with our builders and designers, participate in project and customer meetings, and help troubleshoot equipment on the shop floor. We’re looking for someone who enjoys that variety and wants to be involved in the whole machine.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Programming and debugging PLCs and HMIs, primarily Allen-Bradley.
• Programming and integrating robots, vision systems, barcode readers, servos, conveyors, and other automation equipment.
• Working alongside our mechanical designers, electricians, and machine builders to get equipment running properly.
• Helping troubleshoot mechanical and pneumatic issues during machine debug.
• Participating in internal meetings and working directly with customers to discuss machine operation, answer questions, and resolve open items.
• Keeping track of your portion of the project and communicating what you need to keep things moving.
• Supporting customer runoffs, equipment installation, and startup.
• Keeping programs, backups, and documentation organized.
• Traveling to customer locations within the United States, approximately 10–25% depending on project needs.

Who Would Be a Good Fit

Someone with solid controls programming and machine-debug experience who likes solving problems and seeing a project through. Allen-Bradley experience is important, but you also need to be willing to learn and work with different equipment and platforms.

You should be comfortable talking with customers, working independently, and asking for help when needed. We don’t expect anyone to know everything. We do expect a willingness to learn, help the team, and take responsibility for your work.

Custom automation experience is a plus. So is the ability to look beyond the code and understand how the mechanical, electrical, and pneumatic systems work together.

Working at Proficient

You’ll work closely with the people designing and building the equipment, and your ideas will matter. Some days will be spent programming; others will involve customer discussions or working through a stubborn machine issue with the team.

We work hard, help each other, and care about the equipment that leaves our shop. We also understand that people have families and commitments outside of work. We value a healthy work-life balance and offer flexibility while working together to meet project and customer needs.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on experience and ability
• Paid time off
• Seven paid holidays each year
• Insurance benefits
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Company-paid life insurance
• 401(k) with company matching
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company matching
• Flexibility and respect for family and life outside of work
• A team where your contributions are noticed and your input matters
• A variety of custom automation projects that keep the work interesting

Experience

• 3-5 years experience in related field (preferred)

Education

• BA in Engineering, Electrical, Manufacturing or Mechanical engineering (preferred but not required)

If this sounds like a good fit, we’d like to hear from you. Send us your resume and a little information about yourself and your experience.

Proficient Machine and Automation is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Pay: From $1.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person