Field Service Engineer
The Field Service Controls Engineer is an entry-level role focused on supporting automotive custom machine manufacturing through hands-on application of electrical and mechanical engineering principles. The position involves leveraging foundational knowledge in PLCs, pneumatics, and hydraulics to develop practical skills and grow rapidly within controls, software, mechanical, or electrical engineering disciplines. This full-time, onsite role based in Grand Rapids, MI, offers a comprehensive benefits package and is ideal for candidates with co-op or internship experience eager to advance their engineering careers.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Field Service Engineer (Controls) based in Grand Rapids, MI. This is a hands-on, fully onsite role supporting custom automotive machinery — an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career engineers who want to develop skills in controls, PLCs, pneumatics/hydraulics, and electrical/mechanical troubleshooting.
What You’ll Do
- Support installation, commissioning, and onsite service of custom automated machinery for automotive customers.
- Troubleshoot controls and electrical/mechanical systems — including PLC ladder logic and related control hardware.
- Perform diagnostics and corrective repairs on pneumatic and hydraulic subsystems.
- Work directly with customers at job sites; maintain a professional and safety-focused presence.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to document field issues, suggest improvements, and support longer-term design changes.
- Learn rapidly through hands-on work, co-op-like project responsibilities, and mentorship from senior engineers.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
- Fundamental understanding of PLCs and ladder logic.
- Mechanical and electrical aptitude; comfortable working with hands-on systems.
- Clean driving record and ability to travel locally/regionally to customer sites.
- 0–2 years of relevant experience (internships, co-ops, or equivalent project work preferred).
- Eagerness to learn new skills and grow into controls/software/mechanical or electrical engineering roles.
Nice-to-Have / Preferred
- Direct lab, co-op, or internship experience with pneumatics and hydraulics.
- Prior involvement in college projects or team builds that required hands-on troubleshooting.
- Any exposure to industrial controls, HMIs, or field wiring practice.
Pay & Benefits
- Pay range: $63,000 – $75,000 per year. Actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.
- Benefits package includes (subject to Confidential Client plans): medical, dental & vision insurance; HSA/FSA options; company-paid life & AD&D insurance; short- and long-term disability; 401(k) with company match; EAP; virtual healthcare; and voluntary insurance options. Specific plan details will be provided during the hiring process.
Location & Schedule
- Workplace type: Fully onsite in Grand Rapids, MI.
- Employment type: Full-time (and may include contract engagement options per project needs).
- Anticipated application window noted by the client; apply early for full consideration.
Equal Employment & Candidate Accommodations
Confidential Client and Careertakes are committed to fair hiring practices and will consider applicants without regard to protected characteristics. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact Careertakes for assistance.
Use of AI in Hiring
Careertakes and our client may use AI-assisted tools to support parts of the hiring process (sourcing, screening, or resume review). These tools assist reviewers but do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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