Controls Engineer

Setting/Hours: 100% In-Office | Up to 10% (typically 1–2 days per trip)

Join trak group in partnering with a growing client in Springdale, Ohio that’s expanding its Manufacturing  team. 

Position Summary

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to design, program, and support control systems for custom industrial automation equipment. This hands-on role spans the entire project lifecycle, from concept and design through machine build, startup, commissioning, and customer acceptance. The ideal candidate enjoys solving complex technical challenges, integrating automation systems, and working collaboratively to deliver high-quality custom equipment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and program PLC and HMI control systems using Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms.

• Support electrical controls design, including schematics, panel layouts, bills of materials, and technical documentation.

• Debug, test, and troubleshoot control systems during machine assembly, runoff, startup, and commissioning.

• Collaborate with Engineering, Project Management, Manufacturing, Electricians, and customers throughout project execution.

• Diagnose and resolve controls-related issues in both manufacturing and field environments.

• Develop bills of materials (BOMs) and assist with electrical component selection and system design.

• Research, evaluate, and implement new controls technologies and process improvements.

• Support machine startup, commissioning, and customer acceptance activities.

• Ensure projects are completed on schedule while meeting quality, safety, and customer requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent hands-on experience.

• 2–5 years of Controls Engineering experience in an industrial automation or manufacturing environment.

• Experience programming PLC and HMI systems for industrial equipment.

• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLC platforms.

• Background in custom machinery, capital equipment, or industrial automation.

• Experience with machine startup, commissioning, or field service support.

• Proficiency with AutoCAD Electrical or similar electrical design software.

• Knowledge of electrical control systems, machine integration, and industrial automation best practices.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Systems thinker with the ability to understand how mechanical, electrical, and controls systems work together.

• Hands-on troubleshooter who enjoys debugging, startup, and solving real-world automation challenges.

• Self-motivated professional who takes ownership of projects from design through customer acceptance.

• Collaborative communicator who works effectively with cross-functional teams and customers.

• Organized and adaptable, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced engineering environment.

Work Environment

• Office-based role with regular time spent on the manufacturing floor supporting machine builds and testing.

• Occasional physical activity, including walking the production floor, bending, climbing stairs, and supporting equipment startup activities.

Why Join?

• Design and build custom automation solutions rather than repetitive, standard products.

• See projects through every stage—from concept and design to startup and customer acceptance.

• Work in a collaborative, hands-on engineering environment with strong cross-functional support.

• Opportunity for continued technical development, career growth, and exposure to innovative automation technologies.

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and want to make an impact, partner with trak group to explore this opportunity.