Controls Engineer

Why Dakkota

For over 24 years, Dakkota Integrated Systems has delivered excellence through precision-engineered, build‑to‑order vehicle components — from cockpits to fascia assemblies. Our award‑winning team combines advanced lean manufacturing, strong product development, and an efficient supply chain to meet customer needs with reliability and innovation.

If you're looking for a company that empowers you to grow while driving excellence, collaboration, and innovation to create real impact, we’d love to meet you.

 

The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to support, maintain, and improve manufacturing operations through advanced process controls, automation, and system reliability. This role is responsible for controls system design, programming, troubleshooting, testing, commissioning, and supporting production with data‑driven problem solving.

This position is based on‑site at our Lansing, MI facility and reports to the IT Controls Lead as part of the Plant Engineering team.

 

What You’ll Do

- Support production by reducing or eliminating equipment downtime and scrap using strong analytical and troubleshooting methodologies.

- Design, program, simulate, test, and commission controls systems for automated equipment.

- Develop and implement process improvements related to automation, efficiency, layout, ergonomics, and equipment performance.

- Program PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems to meet production and safety requirements.

- Facilitate and maintain process controls equipment, including sensor systems, drives, networks, and panel components.

- Provide technical guidance to Maintenance Technicians and collaborate with cross‑functional engineering teams.

- Identify and address controls‑related issues, documenting findings and corrective actions.

- Ensure compliance with applicable government safety and environmental standards.

- Recommend and source controls components, evaluate vendor quotes, and support project RFQs.

- Maintain accurate documentation, including schematics, logic programs, and change records.

 

Who You Are (Skills & Requirements)

- Minimum 2‑year technical degree plus 1+ year experience in controls engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.

- Proven PLC logic and programming experience (Allen Bradley, Modicon, Siemens, GE Fanuc, Mitsubishi, Omron).

- HMI/SCADA programming experience (Wonderware, Rockwell, Cimplicity, Iconics).

- Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting skills with blueprint reading capability.

- Experience with panel design, wiring schematics, and industrial controls.

- Experience with conveyor systems, bar code readers, DeviceNet, ControlNet, RSView.

- Proficiency in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office tools.

- Ability to perform field commissioning and maintain confidential information.

 

Health, Safety, Physical & Travel Requirements

- Normal levels of standing, sitting, walking, and computer use within office and plant environments.

- Approximately 20% travel required.

- Valid driver’s license required.

- Must follow all company safety policies.