What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Controls Engineer position at Proos?
Tri-Mation Industries is a Michigan-based automation and controls engineering firm specializing in the design, integration, and deployment of industrial automation systems. Headquartered in Matawan, MI, Tri-Mation delivers turnkey automation solutions including PLC and HMI systems, robotic integration, motion control, vision systems, electrical panel design and build, and on-site commissioning support.
Tri-Mation serves a diverse customer base across manufacturing, automotive, logistics, and industrial markets, with a strong reputation for technical depth, practical engineering, and hands-on problem solving. Our engineers are involved across the full project lifecycle—from concept and design through startup and long-term support—working directly with customers to deliver reliable, scalable automation solutions.
Tri-Mation is a sister company to Proos Manufacturing, a material handling and engineered systems company based in Grand Rapids, MI. This role will primarily support Tri-Mation projects, with additional collaboration and support for select Proos automation and material handling initiatives.
This is a full-time, on-site role for a Lead Controls Engineer located in Matawan, MI. The Lead Controls Engineer will take a technical leadership role in the design, development, and commissioning of industrial control systems for Tri-Mation automation projects, while also supporting integrated systems developed in partnership with Proos.
Key responsibilities include leading control system architecture, developing electrical schematics, programming and maintaining PLCs, HMIs, motion control, and robotic systems, and supporting equipment startup and troubleshooting at customer sites. This role will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and project engineering teams and will mentor junior controls engineers as Tri-Mation continues to grow.
Travel to customer sites and occasional collaboration with Proos’ Grand Rapids engineering team should be expected.
- Strong background in industrial controls, automation, and electrical engineering
- Extensive experience with PLC-based control systems, HMI development, and field troubleshooting
- Hands-on experience with motion control systems and industrial robotics
- Ability to lead technical design decisions and mentor other engineers
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills
- Ability to work on-site in Matawan, MI and support customer startup activities
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or equivalent relevant professional experience