The role – what you’ll do

Barr is seeking a control systems engineer to join our industrial automation and control systems team in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In this hybrid role, you’ll work directly with clients to define functional requirements and develop automation solutions for industrial processes and facilities across multiple market sectors.

You’ll participate in all phases of project execution, including development of requirements, control system architecture, control panel design, PLC and HMI programming, instrumentation and controls design, checkout, commissioning, startup, and client training. This role offers opportunities to serve as a technical lead on projects, mentor less experienced engineers and technicians, and support client relationships from concept through implementation.

A successful person in this role combines strong technical judgment with effective communication and leadership skills. The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex automation challenges, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, adapting to new technologies, and delivering practical solutions that meet client objectives.

Your impact – key responsibilities

• Technical knowledge: design and analysis will include preparing engineering packages, plans and specifications, instrumentation indexes, control narratives, and cost estimates. Responsibilities will include the design, configuration, and implementation of instrumentation and control systems from concept development through startup and commissioning. Projects may involve industrial processing facilities, power generation facilities, mining operations, and manufacturing plants.
• Project management: proposal development including defining work scopes, deliverables, schedules, and budget. Assist with planning, coordinating, and executing projects. Help ensure project milestones are met and provide regular updates to team members and clients.
• Staff development: support the growth and development of team members.
• Collaboration: build and sustain strong relationships with clients and internal teams. Collaborate across disciplines to align technical approaches with client goals while contributing to a positive, inclusive team culture.

About you – required core competencies

• Education: bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, chemical engineering, computer engineering, mechanical engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Experience: five or more years of relevant experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, or control system integration.
• Software: Microsoft Office, Studio 5000, or other automation programming software.
• Driver’s license: possession of a current, valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship from Barr Engineering Co., now or in the future.

Helpful additional experience (not required)

• Experience with Siemens automation platforms, including TIA Portal or SIMATIC systems.
• Experience with Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Control Expert software.
• Experience with Inductive Automation Ignition software.
• Working knowledge of codes, standards, laws, and regulations applicable to the project assignments described above.
• Demonstrated project organization and management skills.
• Experience with AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical for control schematics, wiring diagrams, and panel layouts.
• Experience with industrial network design, communication architectures, and integration of automation system components.
• Experience working in manufacturing, process plant, utility, mining, power, or other heavy industrial environments.
• Experience assisting with project management, client management, estimating, procurement, and change-order development.
• Professional Engineer (PE) certification or the ability to obtain within one year.

About the opportunity

• Hybrid: a hybrid work arrangement can be considered for this position. A hybrid work arrangement refers to splitting time worked between a Barr office and a home office. This position is based out of Barr's Ann Arbor, Michigan, office.
• Travel expectation: ability and willingness to travel up to 10–20% to support client meetings, field investigations, commissioning, and startup activities.
• Work environment: ability to work in locations that feature the rough terrain typical of construction sites. Safety training will be provided prior to being given work assignments on these sites. Applicants may be asked to participate in a drug screening program at the request of specific clients. Candidates must be able to perform job duties with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Compensation: Anticipated range of $92,000–$115,000 annually. Compensation will vary based on relevant experience, education, skill level, and other compensable factors. Employees in this position may also be eligible for a discretionary cash bonus based on team and individual performance. This position is classified as exempt (salaried) under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

#Hybrid

Benefits - what we offer

We are committed to providing an employee experience that attracts and retains top talent. That's why we offer a competitive package of employee benefits - including some unique offerings not found at other companies. At Barr, we also believe that learning doesn't stop when you get your degree, which is why we provide coaching, mentoring, and support for ongoing educational opportunities to foster professional development at every stage of your career.

• Competitive, affordable insurance plans: Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, accidental death insurance, and flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care

• Retirement benefits: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contribution and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) with company contribution in Barr stock

• Profit distribution: Barr has a "no retained earnings" model and distributes all profit to our employees through our annual bonus distribution plan, ESOP, and dividends to shareholders

• Professional development benefits: Annual time and expense allowances, mentorship program, and many internal training opportunities

• Work/life balance: Paid time off, holidays, overtime for non-exempt/hourly staff, and compensatory time for exempt/salaried staff (time off or pay for extra time worked), paid family leave

• Wellness focus: Ergonomic analysis and equipment, Personal Protective Equipment allowance, wellbeing-focused educational opportunities

Please note that benefits eligibility is determined and may change based on part-time, reduced-time, or full-time status.

About us - why choose Barr

At Barr, you'll join a community of engineers, scientists, and professionals who will help you achieve your ambitions and build a meaningful, rewarding career. You'll serve as a trusted advisor to clients who value Barr's tailored solutions and commitment to exceptional service.

As part of our employee-owned firm, you'll contribute to a culture of commitment and camaraderie where staff can thrive as professionals. We value diverse perspectives and experiences and believe an inclusive workplace is critical to our success.

To learn more about Barr's culture and values, visit: https://www.barr.com/Careers/Our-culture

Open positions at Barr Engineering Co. do not have application deadlines. Barr Engineering Co. is an equal opportunity employer, and all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.