Jr. Automation Engineer

Jr. Automation Engineer

6-month Contract-to-Hire

Location: Detroit, MI

Client: Automotive Manufacturing Client

Position Overview

Our client is seeking a Jr. Automation Engineer to support the development, implementation, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems within a high-volume production environment. This individual will work closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Controls, and Operations teams to improve equipment reliability, increase production efficiency, reduce downtime, and support Industry 4.0 initiatives.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with hands-on manufacturing automation experience who is looking to expand their expertise in PLCs, robotics, industrial networking, machine vision systems, and smart manufacturing technologies.

A key focus of this role will be supporting the client's initiatives, helping implement next-generation automation technologies, connected manufacturing systems, predictive maintenance solutions, and advanced robotics across the facility.

Key Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize automated manufacturing equipment and control systems.
• Assist with PLC programming, HMI development, and controls modifications.
• Support automation projects including equipment upgrades, process improvements, and new equipment launches.
• Analyze production and machine data to identify opportunities for increased efficiency and uptime.
• Support Industry 4.0 initiatives including IIoT devices, machine connectivity, digital dashboards, and predictive maintenance solutions.
• Work closely with maintenance technicians to diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, automation, and networking issues.
• Maintain electrical schematics, controls documentation, and standard operating procedures.
• Support robotics programming, recovery procedures, and optimization efforts.
• Assist with machine vision systems, barcode readers, sensors, and automated quality verification technologies.
• Participate in root cause analysis and continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost reduction.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Production, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering teams.

Required Qualifications

• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Industrial Automation, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience supporting industrial automation systems in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment.

Preferred Technical Skills

• Experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Mitsubishi PLCs.
• Experience working with industrial robots such as Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, or Kawasaki.
• Understanding of industrial communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, and Modbus.
• Exposure to SCADA, HMI, machine vision, and manufacturing data collection systems.
• Knowledge of Industry 4.0, IIoT, predictive maintenance, and smart manufacturing technologies.
• Experience with CAD or electrical design software.
• Basic experience with SQL, Power BI, Python, or manufacturing analytics tools.
• Ability to read electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.

Work Environment

• Manufacturing plant and office environment.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and operating within production areas.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.
• Flexibility to support overtime, weekends, and off-shift projects when required.

Why Join?

• Exposure to advanced robotics, automation, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
• Involvement in plant modernization and smart manufacturing projects.
• Hands-on work with PLCs, robotics, machine vision, industrial networking, and connected factory systems.
• Collaborative engineering environment with strong opportunities for technical growth and career development.

Top Skills

• PLC Troubleshooting & Programming
• Industrial Automation & Controls
• Robotics (Fanuc, ABB, KUKA, Kawasaki)

Brooksource is a top consulting and professional services provider specializing in IT and Engineering solutions for Fortune 500 companies and the public sector. It utilizes a national network of over 25,000 consultants, local and national delivery engines, as well as strategic partnerships with industry-leading technology providers to support its customers’ high-impact initiatives.

Brooksource is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, lactation and related medical conditions), gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances.

Brooksource offers competitive medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Dependent Care FSA, and supplemental coverage with plans that can fit each employee’s needs. We offer a 401k plan that includes a company match and is fully vested after you become eligible, paid time off, sick time, and paid company holidays. We also offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that provides services like virtual counseling, financial services, legal services, life coaching, etc.

The pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

*Not accepting applicants past 30 days

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