Automation Engineer - Manufacturing Systems & Controls

Description
At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We're turning today's impossible into tomorrow's standard -from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.
Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale.
The Role
The Automation Resident Engineer is responsible for leading and supporting the implementation, optimization, and maintenance of advanced automation systems across GM manufacturing operations. This role combines expertise in industrial networks, plant floor systems and processes, controls/robotics engineering, and automated tooling to ensure secure, efficient, and reliable production. The resident engineer will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing Engineering, Manufacturing Operations, IT, Cybersecurity, and Equipment Suppliers, to deploy new technologies, troubleshoot issues, and drive continuous improvement.
What You'll Do

• Automation & Controls Execution
  
  • Design, implement, and maintain machine control systems (PLC, HMI, CNC, PC-based systems).
  • Program and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, and industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet).
  • Support robotics integration (Fanuc or equivalent) and automated tooling solutions.
• Network & Cybersecurity Support
  
  • Manage and secure plant floor networks, switches, and endpoints.
  • Execute cybersecurity controls and maintain compliance with corporate standards.
  • Utilize IT dashboards to monitor and resolve network and security issues.
• Manufacturing Systems & Process Integration
  
  • Collaborate on simultaneous engineering activities with ME and suppliers.
  • Diagnose and correct deficiencies in manufacturing processes and controls.
  • Support deployment of error-proofing and safety systems.
• Project Management & Continuous Improvement
  
  • Lead new program launches and technology deployments.
  • Document best practices and lessons learned for global standardization.
  • Provide technical training and guidance to personnel of various technical capabilities.

Your Skills & Abilities (Required Qualifications)

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Electronics, Computer, or related) or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years in automation/controls engineering within a manufacturing environment.
• Hands-on experience with:
  
  • PLC debug & programming (Siemens, Allen-Bradley)
  • HMI programming (TIA Portal, Allen-Bradley)
  • Industrial networks (Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, Profinet)
• Strong understanding of plant floor systems, processes, and controls standards.
• Ability to troubleshoot electrical and control systems, including legacy equipment.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.

What Will Give You a Competitive Edge (Preferred Qualifications)

• Experience with cybersecurity in manufacturing environments.
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and GM Global Controls Architecture.
• Familiarity with Robotics (Fanuc preferred).
• Familiarity with hydraulics, pneumatics, and motion control systems.

Additional Information

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and adapt to changing schedules (including weekends/off-shifts).
• Travel as required.

GM Applications:
This position will be considered a lateral opportunity for current internal Automation engineers; internal and external candidates are welcome to apply
This position is not eligible for ISP, ITAP, DTAP or localization
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GM does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need GM immigration sponsorship now or in the future. This includes direct company sponsorship, entry of GM as the immigration employer of record on a government form, and any work authorization requiring a written submission or other immigration support from the company (e.g., H1-B, OPT, STEM OPT, CPT, TN, J-1, etc.)
This role is categorized as onsite. This means the selected candidate is expected to report to a specific location on a full-time basis.
The selected candidate will be required to travel <25% for this role.
This job may be eligible for relocation benefits.
About GM
Our vision is a world with Zero Crashes, Zero Emissions and Zero Congestion and we embrace the responsibility to lead the change that will make our world better, safer and more equitable for all.
Why Join Us
We believe we all must make a choice every day - individually and collectively - to drive meaningful change through our words, our deeds and our culture. Every day, we want every employee to feel they belong to one General Motors team.
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We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications for each role and apply for any positions that match their skills and capabilities. Applicants in the recruitment process may be required, where applicable, to successfully complete a role-related assessment(s) and/or a pre-employment screening prior to beginning employment. To learn more, visit How we Hire.
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