Automation Consultant

This is a full-time, on-site Automation Consultant role based in Grand Rapids, MI. The Automation Consultant will work with industrial and manufacturing clients to assess current operations, identify automation opportunities, and design solutions that leverage PLC/SCADA systems, process automation, and MES technologies. Day-to-day responsibilities include gathering requirements, conducting site assessments, developing implementation plans, and coordinating with engineering, operations, and IT teams to deploy and maintain automation projects. The role involves advising stakeholders on best practices, monitoring project progress and performance metrics, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and uptime. The Automation Consultant will also prepare documentation, troubleshoot existing PLC/SCADA/MES systems, and contribute to internal knowledge sharing and methodology development.

Experience with PLC Programming, SCADA, MES, and Automation to design and optimize manufacturing workflows. Consulting and Project Management skills to lead client engagements and deliver solutions on time and within scope. Hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLC Programming, including evaluating, specifying, and troubleshooting PLCs and connected vision/torque systems. Familiarity with MES platforms, industrial control systems (PLC, SCADA), and Manufacturing Execution Systems. Experience with PTC ThingWorx, Connected Worker Cell, and Kepware is a plus. Familiarity with IGS/Kepware for PLC data acquisition, including OPC-UA and MTConnect protocols. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience interpreting operational and production data. Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams and present technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Automation, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. Experience in electronics or other discrete manufacturing industries is a plus, along with exposure to smart factory or digital transformation initiatives.

$160,000 - $180,000 a year - Full-time, Pulled from the full job description

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance, * 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Relocation bonus
• Training & development
• Vision insurance