Automation Specialist Jobs in Michigan
Automation Specialist jobs in Michigan are in strong demand, concentrated in automotive manufacturing, industrial systems, and advanced production technology, with openings at every level from entry-level controls technician through senior automation engineer. Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Warren anchor most of the hiring, where established employers like General Motors, Stellantis, and Rockwell Automation maintain significant Michigan operations. The most sought-after specialties in the state are PLC programming, robotics integration, and SCADA systems. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 16+ Automation Specialist jobs
Position Details
- Monitor and adjust the full range of heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration equipment using the Building Automation System (BAS). Implements and facilitates the Building Automation System for HVAC controls and Indoor Air Quality.
- Configures, analyzes, troubleshoots, and enhances programs to balance energy management with comfort control. Monitors and adjusts computer-based Building Automation systems for proper HVAC comfort and energy management.
- Diagnoses, calibrates, maintains, and repairs environmental control systems.
- Troubleshoots, maintains, inspects, modifies, and repairs heating, ventilation systems, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems and equipment.
- Attends ongoing Heating and Cooling readiness meetings weekly to insure all systems are up and running as needed.
- Provides guidance and assistance to other trades with troubleshooting, system overrides, and programming.
- Advanced Building Automation Software configuration, including systems integration, database customization, and specialty programming with the ability to configure custom reports for trends, alarms, schedules, and point lists.
- Installs, commissions, and troubleshoots controller software and communication bus issues for project needs.
- Works with Project Managers during construction projects to develop complete project programming, checkout, and project startup and sequencing of environmental control systems.
- Develops graphics in the Buildings Automation System and commissions new systems for operation.
- High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- Ability to read and comprehend written instructions and safety regulations regarding the performance of job duties and have sufficient writing and mathematical skills to prepare estimates and supply requisitions.
- Ability to interpret complex blueprints, diagrams, written specifications, and operating instructions.
- Completion of a registered apprenticeship program, or an established, certified training program recognized by the University, and/or written verification of a minimum of eight (8) years’ experience at the journeyperson level in the trade.
- Advanced understanding of various communication protocols (examples LON, ASD, ModBus, BackNet, BackNet over IP).
- Advanced understanding of various Building Automation Systems software (examples: Tridium, Niagara N4, AX, and or R2).
- Advanced troubleshooting, operation, programming, and maintenance of various communication protocols and Building Automation software systems.
- Possess certification from one or more recognized control manufacturers.
- Possession of a Michigan Driver’s License.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the job and use the tools of the trade.
- Complete a physical examination administered by the employer’s designated physician to determine the incumbent’s ability to perform the essential functions of the job and/or identify the need for a reasonable job accommodation.
- Current AFSCME employees must complete the on-line WMU – AFSCME (bid) Sheet only.
- Non-AFSCME University employees must submit an on-line WMU – Internal Application only.
- Temporary University employees must submit an on-line WMU – Application only.
- Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, s://wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-afscme
- Above is a summary of the description for the position of Building Automation Software Specialist. A complete description for this position may be reviewed upon request in the department of Human Resources, Room 1300, Seibert Administration Building or online at: https://wmich.edu/hr/descriptions-afscme
- This is a first (1st) shift position. The regular work hours for this position are 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The regular work days are Monday through Friday, with Saturday and Sunday off.
Position Details
- Monitor and adjust the full range of heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration equipment using the Building Automation System (BAS). Implements and facilitates the Building Automation System for HVAC controls and Indoor Air Quality.
- Configures, analyzes, troubleshoots, and enhances programs to balance energy management with comfort control. Monitors and adjusts computer-based Building Automation systems for proper HVAC comfort and energy management.
- Diagnoses, calibrates, maintains, and repairs environmental control systems.
- Troubleshoots, maintains, inspects, modifies, and repairs heating, ventilation systems, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems and equipment.
- Attends ongoing Heating and Cooling readiness meetings weekly to insure all systems are up and running as needed.
- Provides guidance and assistance to other trades with troubleshooting, system overrides, and programming.
- Advanced Building Automation Software configuration, including systems integration, database customization, and specialty programming with the ability to configure custom reports for trends, alarms, schedules, and point lists.
- Installs, commissions, and troubleshoots controller software and communication bus issues for project needs.
- Works with Project Managers during construction projects to develop complete project programming, checkout, and project startup and sequencing of environmental control systems.
- Develops graphics in the Buildings Automation System and commissions new systems for operation.
- High school diploma or equivalent from an accredited institution.
- Ability to read and comprehend written instructions and safety regulations regarding the performance of job duties and have sufficient writing and mathematical skills to prepare estimates and supply requisitions.
- Ability to interpret complex blueprints, diagrams, written specifications, and operating instructions.
- Completion of a registered apprenticeship program, or an established, certified training program recognized by the University, and/or written verification of a minimum of eight (8) years’ experience at the journeyperson level in the trade.
- Advanced understanding of various communication protocols (examples LON, ASD, ModBus, BackNet, BackNet over IP).
- Advanced understanding of various Building Automation Systems software (examples: Tridium, Niagara N4, AX, and or R2).
- Advanced troubleshooting, operation, programming, and maintenance of various communication protocols and Building Automation software systems.
- Possess certification from one or more recognized control manufacturers.
- Possession of a Michigan Driver’s License.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the job and use the tools of the trade.
- Complete a physical examination administered by the employer’s designated physician to determine the incumbent’s ability to perform the essential functions of the job and/or identify the need for a reasonable job accommodation.
- Current AFSCME employees must complete the on-line WMU – AFSCME (bid) Sheet only.
- Non-AFSCME University employees must submit an on-line WMU – Internal Application only.
- Temporary University employees must submit an on-line WMU – Application only.
- Western Michigan University offers generous benefits to its employees including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, retirement, and tuition discount for the employee and tuition remission for eligible dependents. To access information about the specific benefits available for this position, s://wmich.edu/hr/enrollment-afscme
- Above is a summary of the description for the position of Building Automation Software Specialist. A complete description for this position may be reviewed upon request in the department of Human Resources, Room 1300, Seibert Administration Building or online at: https://wmich.edu/hr/descriptions-afscme
- This is a first (1st) shift position. The regular work hours for this position are 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. The regular work days are Monday through Friday, with Saturday and Sunday off.
See All 16 Automation Specialist Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Automation Specialist JobsAutomation Specialist Jobs by City in Michigan
Where Michigan roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Automation Specialist Job Market in Michigan
A snapshot from current Michigan openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Automotive
What Michigan Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in automation specialist jobs across Michigan.
- Associate or bachelor's degree in automation, electrical engineering, or mechatronics
- Hands-on experience programming PLCs such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens platforms
- Proficiency with industrial robotics systems including FANUC or KUKA equipment
- Knowledge of SCADA systems and HMI configuration in manufacturing environments
- Familiarity with Michigan automotive production standards and lean manufacturing principles
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical engineering drawings
Automation Specialist Jobs in Michigan: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become an automation specialist in Michigan?
Most Michigan employers hire automation specialists who hold at least an associate degree in electrical technology, mechatronics, or industrial automation, with a bachelor's degree preferred for senior roles. Michigan does not require a state-issued license for most automation specialist positions, but industry certifications from organizations such as PMMI or ISA strengthen candidacy significantly. Completing an apprenticeship through the Michigan Apprenticeship Program and earning a controls or robotics credential gives candidates a clear competitive edge in the state's manufacturing-heavy market.
Which companies hire automation specialists in Michigan?
Employers hiring automation specialists in Michigan right now include Siemens, Lear Corporation, and Western Michigan University, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. Michigan's deep automotive and industrial manufacturing base means large OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and systems integrators are among the most consistent sources of openings across the state.
Which Michigan cities have the most automation specialist jobs?
Detroit, Kalamazoo, and Comstock Park account for the largest share of automation specialist openings in Michigan. Detroit and its surrounding metro, including Warren and Auburn Hills, drive volume through the concentration of automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, while Grand Rapids supports steady hiring through its growing food processing and industrial equipment manufacturing sectors.
Are there remote automation specialist jobs in Michigan?
Yes, but they're rare. Automation specialist work is fundamentally hands-on, requiring physical access to machinery, production lines, and control panels, so most Michigan roles are on-site. About 20% of automation specialist openings tied to Michigan are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, and those positions are typically limited to tasks like PLC program development, system documentation, or project management that do not require a physical presence on the floor.
How can I get hired as an automation specialist in Michigan with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is completing an associate degree or certificate in industrial automation or electrical technology at a Michigan community college, then targeting controls technician or maintenance technician roles at automotive suppliers or food manufacturing plants. Large Michigan employers like General Motors and Stellantis run apprenticeship and co-op programs designed for candidates without direct automation experience. Building a portfolio of PLC ladder logic projects, even from coursework, and earning a foundational ISA or PMMI certification strengthens applications considerably when competing for junior positions.
Where can I find and apply to automation specialist jobs in Michigan?
You can find and apply to automation specialist jobs in Michigan on Migrate Mate, which lists current Michigan openings across Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, and other hiring centers in the state. Find a role that fits and apply directly from the listing.
See All 16 Automation Specialist Jobs in Michigan
Find roles in Michigan that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Automation Specialist Jobs