Controls Engineer - Custom Systems

Location: Harrison, Ohio (Greater Cincinnati Area)This is an on-site position. Relocation assistance may be considered based on experience, qualifications, and overall fit.Cincinnati Test Systems (CTS) is seeking an experienced Controls / Automation Engineer to lead the design, development, and commissioning of multi‑million‑dollar custom automation systems, with a primary focus on advanced leak test machinery.CTS is a recognized industry leader in the design and manufacture of custom automated test and measurement equipment for demanding production environments. This role offers the opportunity to take full technical ownership of complex automation projects—from concept through customer acceptance—while collaborating with a highly skilled, cross‑functional engineering team.This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys hands‑on system design, solving challenging automation problems, and building robust, production‑ready control systems that are deployed globally.What You’ll DoOwn controls engineering execution across the full project lifecycle: concept, design, programming, debug, commissioning, and customer supportArchitect and design electrical, pneumatic, and safety systems for custom automated machineryDevelop PLC and HMI applications from the ground up, emphasizing reliability, maintainability, and performanceServe as the technical interface with customers, translating functional requirements into scalable automation solutionsLead hands‑on system debug, diagnosing mechanical, electrical, and software issues during build and site acceptanceAnalyze test and production data to validate system performance and recommend design improvementsContribute to engineering standards, best practices, and technology roadmap for CTS automation platformsSupport continuous improvement initiatives to strengthen CTS’s position as a premier automation OEMRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience)5+ years of experience designing and programming custom automated machinery in manufacturing or production environmentsProven experience with PLC and HMI development, including Allen‑Bradley platforms (Siemens experience a plus)Strong understanding of machine safety standards and safe automation design practicesAbility to work independently while collaborating effectively across mechanical and electrical teamsExcellent verbal and written communication skills, including customer‑facing interactionsPreferred ExperienceElectrical design experience using AutoCAD ElectricalExposure to medical device and/or automotive production environmentsExperience implementing motion control systems (VFDs, servos) and vision systems (e.g., Keyence)Familiarity with SCADA and production data systems (Ignition, Wonderware, or similar)Why Engineers Choose CTSHigh‑impact projects: Custom systems, not maintenance or repetitive buildsTechnical ownership: Engineers drive design decisions and implementationVariety & challenge: Each system is unique, with evolving technologiesStrong engineering culture: Collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement