Principal Software Automation Engineer
$152,800–$229,200 year
On-site · Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States or Dexter, Michigan, United States
Job Summary
Lead automation opportunities from concept through FAT, validation, and production deployment. Architect and program PLC-based automation systems, ensuring scalable, robust controls architectures. Own robot–PLC communication strategies, including interfaces, handshakes, safety interlocks, and data exchange. Provide deep technical leadership in robot programming and automation software development. Troubleshoot and optimize automation systems to improve uptime, throughput, quality, and reliability.
Required Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience with a bachelor’s degree or 5+ years of experience with an advanced degree
- Experience in PLC Programming & Troubleshooting: Diagnose, repair, optimize, and standardize PLC-controlled systems
- Experience in Automation Software: Design, deploy, or support automation software (structured text, ladder, HMI, higher-level applications)
- Validation Execution: Equipment and software validation within regulated manufacturing environments
- Vendor accountability and leadership experience
- Automation development, design, or deployment experience
- Medical or equivalent external industry robotics
- For Baccalaureate degrees earned outside the United States, a degree that satisfies 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(h)(4)(iii)(A) is required.
- U.S. work authorization sponsorship (H-1B, TN, J, etc.) is offered exclusively for Principal-level roles and above
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