Company Description

Tuff Automation designs and delivers customized material handling solutions that address the unique challenges of commercial and industrial applications. By combining mechanical design with advanced controls engineering, the company provides turnkey systems ranging from complete installations to individual components and support systems. Tuff Automation uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure thorough application engineering, seamless system integration, and dependable performance. Team members collaborate closely with clients to create tailored solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and reliability in their operations. The company is known for its commitment to quality service, long-term support, and cutting-edge automation technologies.

Position Description

The Controls Engineer will work with a group of Controls Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Project Managers, and shop personnel, to design, implement, and document, controls systems for various types of automation or material handling equipment. This roll offers the opportunity to take ownership of electrical, pneumatic system design, simulation, PLC, HMI, and peripheral device programming, machine debug and validation / buyoff. Travel to customer sites for installation, startup, and support of equipment.

Essential Functions

Ensure that equipment is designed and programmed to customers and/or Tuff Automation build specifications, using standard techniques and approaches, including, but not limited to:

- Lead controls engineering efforts across multiple projects, taking ownership from concept and design through machine build, customer runoff, installation, and startup
- Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Electrical, Build, and Project Management teams to ensure seamless system integration and successful project execution
- Design and program PLC and HMI programs, within established architecture and standards.




- Perform I/O mapping, device setup, alarms/diagnostics, and data handling
- Adheres to code / electrical standards; keeps backups/change logs, I/O and tag maps, and manuals current for assigned scope
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex automation challenges, driving root-cause analysis and implementing long-term solutions.
- Communicate with vendors to specify and source major purchased components

Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related, is preferred, but not required
- 5+ years of experience within an industrial controls environment which includes
- PLC programming (Rockwell Software preferred, Siemens software a plus)
- HMI Programming (Factory Talk View preferred, Ignition a plus)
- Extensive Networking configuration and fieldbus diagnostics (e.g., Ethernet/IP, IO-Link, Profinet)
- Electrical design and drawing creation

- Experience supporting projects through the full lifecycle, from concept and design through commissioning and customer startup
- Proven ability to troubleshoot complex automation systems and develop effective technical solutions
- Past on-the-job travel and willing to travel 20-25%; domestic and intl travel
- Equivalent work experience will also be considered as a substitute for education

Skills/Abilities

- Must be self-motivated, self-aware, detail-oriented, and results-focused
- Understanding of VFDs, induction motors, programmable logic controllers, and industrial networks
- Ability to manage and execute large scale system implementations, enhancements, and retrofits
- Ability to collaborate and communicate with Tuff Automation team members, project managers, and customers, in a professional written and spoken manner
- Experience with servo systems, VFDs, vision systems, and machine safety
- Ability to produce quality designs, drawings, programs, and documentation with minimal errors

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📌 Senior Controls Engineer (Grand Rapids)
🏢 Tuff Automation
📍 Grand Rapids