Job Title: Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation (PLC / Robotics)
Location: Columbus, IN (On-site | Relocation Not Available)
Salary Range: Competitive; commensurate with experience
Employment Type: Direct Hire (Exempt)
We are supporting a confidential client within the industrial automation and custom equipment space seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, startup, and deployment of automated manufacturing systems.
This is a hands-on, project-based role ideal for a Controls Engineer with approximately 2–5 years of experience who enjoys working across PLC programming, robotics, vision systems, and electrical integration. This is not a plant maintenance role — engineers are involved throughout the full equipment lifecycle, from concept and programming through commissioning, testing, and customer acceptance.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in controls troubleshooting and system support, along with exposure to programming and system integration, and a desire to grow into full project ownership.
- 2–5 years of hands-on experience in industrial automation or controls engineering
- Experience with PLC systems (Allen-Bradley / ControlLogix strongly preferred)
- Exposure to PLC programming (not solely troubleshooting/maintenance)
- Experience working with industrial robotics and/or vision systems (Fanuc, Keyence, Cognex, etc.)
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
- Working knowledge of industrial safety circuits
- Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
- Experience with HMI development and/or motion control systems
- Exposure to system startup, commissioning, and equipment runoffs
- Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar electrical design tools
- Experience supporting control panel design, wiring, and field integration
- Exposure to SQL Server or basic database integration
- Comfortable supporting projects outside of standard first shift as needed
- Program and support PLC systems for custom automation equipment
- Support integration of robotics and vision systems into automated processes
- Assist with equipment startup, commissioning, testing, and customer acceptance
- Support electrical system design including control panels, circuits, and wiring
- Perform system debugging, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis
- Collaborate with engineering and production teams to bring equipment into operation
- Assist in development of technical documentation and training materials
- Communicate project status and technical updates with internal teams and customers
Physical expectations and working conditions associated with the job may include standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods; lifting up to 30–50 lbs; and working in a manufacturing or industrial environment. This role may include hands-on work on the shop floor and occasional support during equipment installation and startup.
- Competitive compensation aligned to experience and market conditions
- Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
- Opportunity to work on custom, non-repetitive automation systems
- Hands-on engineering environment with strong exposure to full project lifecycle
- Collaborative team culture with opportunities for technical growth and advancement
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