Controls Engineer

Job Title: Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation (PLC / Robotics) Location: Columbus, IN (On-site | Relocation Not Available) Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000 (DOE) Employment Type: Direct Hire (Exempt) Job Summary We are supporting a confidential industrial automation and custom equipment manufacturer 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 an early-career to mid-level Controls Engineer who enjoys working with PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and electrical design in a custom automation environment. This role is not a plant maintenance position — engineers are involved throughout the full equipment lifecycle, from design and programming through commissioning, testing, and customer acceptance. Required Skills & Qualifications 1+ years of hands-on experience in industrial automation / controls engineering PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Keyence, or similar platforms) Experience programming industrial robots or cobots (Fanuc, Universal Robots, Doosan, or similar) Experience with vision systems (Keyence, Cognex, or similar) Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics Working knowledge of industrial safety circuits Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills Proficiency with Microsoft Office Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship Preferred Skills & Qualifications Experience with HMI and motion control systems Exposure to SQL Server / database setup Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar electrical design software Experience supporting equipment startups, runoffs, and commissioning Comfortable supporting projects outside of first shift as needed Day-to-Day Responsibilities Program and support PLCs, robotics, and vision systems for custom automation equipment Support equipment startup, testing, commissioning, and customer acceptance Design and support electrical systems including control panels, wiring, and circuits Support field wiring, debugging, and system troubleshooting Diagnose electrical and controls issues and implement corrective actions Support creation of project documentation and training materials Collaborate with engineering and production teams to transition equipment into production Communicate project status and technical details with customers and internal stakeholders Physical and Environment Requirements Physical expectations and working conditions may include standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods; lifting up to 30–50 lbs; working at varying heights; and working in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Some onsite installation and support work may be required. Company Benefits & Culture Competitive salary based on experience Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k) Stable pipeline of custom automation projects Opportunity to work on technically challenging, non-repetitive equipment Collaborative engineering environment with hands-on ownership INDQSS3