Controls Engineer Job Dayton area,Ohio USA,Engineering

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 expanding its Controls Engineering team and looking to hire multiple engineers across junior, mid, and senior levels. Dedicated field service teams handle most customer-site work, keeping Controls Engineering travel around 0–5%.

The role involves a mix of PLC/HMI programming, electrical design, and equipment testing, primarily using Allen-Bradley/Rockwell. Responsibilities will vary depending on your experience, with opportunities to develop your skills or take ownership of projects independently.

What you'll be working on

PLC programming and troubleshooting, primarily Allen-Bradley / Studio 5000
HMI programming and development
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. 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 controls systems
Experience reading or developing electrical schematics
Electrical design, equipment testing, or hands-on troubleshooting experience

Preferred, but not required:

HMI development and programming
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

0–5% 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 – Opportunities for 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, or potentially grow into leadership
Growing team – Strong project pipeline and multiple new engineering positions being added