Controls Engineer - Multiple Experience Levels

If you enjoy custom automation but don't enjoy spending half your life on the road, this is a pretty unique opportunity.

We're working with a long-established custom machine builder in the Dayton area that's growing its Controls Engineering team and open to hiring engineers across junior, mid, and senior levels. Dedicated field service teams handle most customer-site work, keeping Controls Engineering travel around 0–10%.

The role involves a mix of PLC/HMI programming, electrical design, and equipment testing, primarily using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell. Responsibilities will vary depending on experience, whether you're looking to develop your skills, take ownership of projects independently, or potentially grow into a leadership role down the line.

What you'll be working on

• PLC programming and troubleshooting, primarily Allen-Bradley / Studio 5000


• HMI programming and development


• Electrical controls design using AutoCAD Electrical


• VFDs, motors, sensors, instrumentation, and industrial networking


• New custom equipment, rebuilds, upgrades, and retrofits


• Equipment debugging, testing, and factory acceptance testing (FAT)


• Working with mechanical and manufacturing teams throughout the equipment lifecycle

What we're looking for

We're open to engineers at different stages of their careers, from junior engineers looking to build their experience to senior engineers capable of independently owning controls projects.

You don't need to check every box, especially if you're earlier in your career and looking to develop.

Relevant experience could include:

• Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical background


• Exposure to industrial automation, automated machinery, or manufacturing equipment


• PLC programming, troubleshooting, or familiarity with industrial control systems


• Experience reading or developing electrical schematics


• Electrical design, equipment testing, or hands-on troubleshooting experience

Preferred, but not required:

• Allen-Bradley / Rockwell PLC programming (Studio 5000 / RSLogix)


• HMI development and programming


• AutoCAD Electrical


• Experience with VFDs, motors, industrial networking, and instrumentation


• Fluid-handling or process equipment involving pumps, valves, pressure, flow, and temperature controls


• Experience with custom machine building, systems integration, or full project lifecycle work

Why this opportunity stands out

• 0–10% travel – Dedicated field service team handles most customer-site work


• Work-life balance – Generally a 40-hour workweek with flexible start and finish times


• Multiple experience levels – Open to junior, mid-level, and senior engineers


• Technical variety – Custom equipment across a range of industrial applications


• Career growth – Develop PLC/HMI and electrical design skills, take ownership of projects, and potentially move into leadership as the team grows


• Growing team – Strong project pipeline and continued investment in engineering headcount