Devon A. Johnson, 31, of Thornton was charged with murder in the deadly shooting of 48-year-old Andrew Coleman of Highland, Indiana at Nippon Paint Automotive.
According to court documents, Johnson targeted Coleman because he was fired.
The state's attorney said Johnson has a history of threats and violence with a weapon.
A judge ordered him to remain in custody.
Officers were called for an active shooter June 4 at Nippon Paint Automotive Americas at 170th Street and Oakwood Avenue in Lansing. When police got to the scene they said they found a worker dead, with a single gunshot wound.
Investigators searched four large buildings at the facility the day of the shooting, but didn't find anyone. The investigation drew a massive police response, and people were forced to stay in their homes for hours.
Johnson was arrested recently in Chicago, Lansing police said.