
Automation Engineer - Battle Creek Area
The Pivot Group • Battle Creek, Michigan, United States
Salary: $86,000 - $131,000 / year
Role & seniority: Automation Engineer; seniority not specified
Stack/tools: PLC programming (Siemens, Rockwell), HMIs, SCADA; industrial robots (KUKA, FANUC, ABB); vision systems; industrial networking protocols (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP); electrical schematics; MES/industrial data historians; basic Python/C# (bonus)
Top 3 responsibilities
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Design, develop, and implement automation solutions for manufacturing processes
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Program/configure PLCs, HMIs, SCADA; integrate robots, vision systems, and other equipment
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Test/commission/validate systems; troubleshoot complex automation issues; optimize processes; document specifications
Must-have skills
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PLC programming expertise (Siemens or Rockwell)
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Experience with industrial robotics (programming, integration, maintenance)
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HMI/SCADA design and deployment; debugging complex automation systems
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Knowledge of industrial networks/protocols (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP)
Nice-to-haves
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Additional robotics (FANUC, KUKA, ABB) or collaborative robots
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Machine vision (Cognex, Keyence)
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MES or data historians; basic Python or C#
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OT cybersecurity and industrial networking best practices
Location & work type: Battle Creek, MI; on-site/work type not specified
Compensation: $86,000–$131,000 (dependent on experience)
Full Description
Automation Engineer | Battle Creek, MI
Salary Range: $86,000 - $131,000 depending on experience
Are you a forward-thinking professional with a passion for designing systems that improve efficiency and reduce manual processes? The Pivot Group is committed to fostering meaningful relationships in the manufacturing community. We partner with companies in Battle Creek seeking skilled Automation Engineers.
The Opportunity
We partner with manufacturers across Battle Creek seeking Automation Engineers who want more than a lateral move. These companies hire intentionally, and we connect them with professionals ready for roles that fit.
Key Responsibilities
Design, develop, and implement industrial automation solutions for manufacturing processes. Program and configure Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and SCADA systems. Integrate and program industrial robots, vision systems, and other automated equipment. Conduct system testing, commissioning, and validation of new and modified automation systems. Provide technical support and troubleshoot complex automation equipment and controls issues. Optimize existing automation processes to improve efficiency, productivity, and reliability. Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including electrical schematics and software specifications.
Recommended Qualifications
Strong proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Rockwell Automation) for industrial control systems. Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., KUKA, FANUC, ABB) including programming, integration, and maintenance. Ability to design, develop, and implement HMI/SCADA systems for process visualization and control. Knowledge of industrial communication protocols (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP/IP) and network architecture. Proven ability to troubleshoot and diagnose complex issues in automated production lines, including electrical, mechanical, and software.
Bonus Qualifications
Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, KUKA, ABB) or collaborative robots. Proficiency in machine vision systems (e.g., Cognex, Keyence) for inspection or guidance. Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or industrial data historians. Basic proficiency in higher-level programming languages (e.g., Python, C#) for data analysis or custom tool development. Knowledge of industrial networking best practices (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Profinet) and cybersecurity principles for OT environments.
Job Titles That Should Apply
Automation Engineer, Industrial Automation Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, Robotics Engineer, Process Automation Engineer, Automation Specialist, PLC Programmer, SCADA Engineer, Manufacturing Automation Engineer, Automation Developer, Test Automation Engineer, RPA Developer
Why Pivot Group
The Pivot Group was founded by manufacturing professionals who've been on both sides of the hiring process. Our clients are strategic—they partner with us because they want real insight into their roles and the people filling them, not a stack of resumes. We focus on match-driven placements built around what actually matters: Commute, Compensation, Culture, and Career trajectory.
If you're ready to take the next step in your career and connect with a firm that values fit over speed, we invite you to reach out. The Pivot Group offers resources to support your search—market insights, resume feedback, and interview preparation. As our partnerships grow, we'll reach out with opportunities aligned with your goals. Thank you for considering this approach to career advancement.