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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in Cincinnati, OH

Controls Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Associate or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field - or equivalent experience * Experience with PLC/HMI programming and industrial controls ...

Controls Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Associate or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field - or equivalent experience * Experience with PLC/HMI programming and industrial controls ...

Controls Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Associate or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field -- or equivalent experience * Experience with PLC/HMI programming and industrial controls ...

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 ...

Service / Controls Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Minimum of an Associate's degree in Engineering or a related technical/industrial field (Bachelor's preferred), or 5-7 years of equivalent experience in industrial automation, controls, or service ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Middletown, OH · On-site

$92K - $121K/yr

They also contribute to overall team performance by training/mentoring associates, providing ... controls and system integration with a strong focus on software design and programming * Ability to ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Middletown, OH · On-site

$92K - $121K/yr

They also contribute to overall team performance by training/mentoring associates, providing ... controls and system integration with a strong focus on software design and programming * Ability to ...

Controls Engineer-HVAC

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Troubleshoot mechanical, controls, and instrumentation issues during commissioning and live ... S. in Engineering or Associate degree in mechanical or electrical/electronic technology with 2 ...

... training to less-senior associates. Responsibilities * Lead in the concepting and design of ... Develop Programmable Logical Control (PLC) programs * Maintain product develop schedules and cost ...

ILUS - Senior Controls Engineer II

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

... training to less-senior associates. Responsibilities * Lead in the concepting and design of ... Develop Programmable Logical Control (PLC) programs * Maintain product develop schedules and cost ...

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Associate Controls Engineer information

See Cincinnati, OH salary details

$52.8K

$92.7K

$125.8K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate controls engineer in Cincinnati, OH is $92,734.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,200.00 and $103,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate Controls Engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Associate Controls Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering backgrounds. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may use different technical jargon and have distinct priorities. Additionally, balancing project timelines while integrating control systems with hardware and software components can require strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in cross-functional meetings can help Associate Controls Engineers bridge gaps and contribute effectively to project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard software such as AutoCAD or Rockwell Automation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and resolve technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient control solutions, ensuring system reliability, and driving project success in automated environments.

What does an Associate Controls Engineer do?

An Associate Controls Engineer assists in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used in manufacturing or industrial settings. They work with senior engineers to implement automation solutions, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently. Their tasks often include programming controllers, testing system performance, and supporting the integration of new technologies. This role typically requires knowledge of electrical engineering, programming languages like PLC, and a strong attention to detail.

What is the difference between Associate Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectAssociate Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in related engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting design, testing, and troubleshootingMore independent, leading projects, and system integration
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and industrial facilitiesSimilar industries, with increased responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. Associate Controls Engineers typically support and assist in projects, focusing on learning and executing tasks under supervision. Controls Engineers take on more independent roles, managing projects and system design. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Controls Engineers usually have more hands-on experience and leadership responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Cincinnati, OH? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Cincinnati, OH are:
What cities near Cincinnati, OH are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Cincinnati, OH with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in Cincinnati, OH as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,734 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Controls Engineer

$80K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls Engineer
Department: Engineering
Reports To: Engineering Team Leader
Exemption Classification: Salary, Exempt
Position is located onsite in Cincinnati
Position Summary
The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, integration, and support of machine control systems for custom industrial equipment. This role works across engineering, manufacturing, and customer teams to deliver reliable, functional, and supportable automation systems from project kickoff through startup and customer acceptance.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys problem-solving, machine integration, and seeing projects come to life in the real world.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop PLC and HMI programs using platforms such as Allen-Bradley and Siemens
  • Support electrical controls design including schematics, panel layouts, and controls documentation
  • Debug, test, and support machines during build, runoff, and startup
  • Collaborate with Project Managers, Engineers, Manufacturing, Electricians, and Customers throughout project execution
  • Support controls-related troubleshooting in manufacturing and the field
  • Generate controls-related BOMs and support component selection
  • Research and apply new controls technologies and improvements

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role
Successful Controls Engineers are strong problem-solvers who combine technical capability with ownership and teamwork. Individuals who excel in this role typically demonstrate:
  • Systems Thinking - Understands how controls, electrical, mechanical, and machine operation work together
  • Troubleshooting Ability - Approaches problems logically and remains effective during debug and startup activities
  • Ownership & Accountability - Takes responsibility for machine functionality from design through customer acceptance
  • Communication & Collaboration - Works effectively with engineering, manufacturing, project management, and customers
  • Adaptability & Prioritization - Manages multiple projects and changing priorities while maintaining quality and schedule commitments

Qualifications
  • Associate or bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related technical field - or equivalent experience
  • Experience with PLC/HMI programming and industrial controls systems
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical or similar electrical CAD software
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Preferred:
  • Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens experience
  • Capital equipment or custom machinery experience
  • Startup, commissioning, or field service experience

Certificates/Licenses/Registrations
  • Maintain local, regional and/or national membership in appropriate professional organizations/associations as necessary.

Physical Demands
  • Sit at a workstation for extended periods. Adjust visual focus as needed. Occasionally reach, stoop, and/or bend, and climb stairs. Enter the shop environment as needed.

Work Environment
  • Traditional office atmosphere. Temperature standard. Quiet noise level. Will need to go into shop environment on an as needed basis.

Travel
  • Must be able to periodically travel to customer's jobsite for startups, machine commissioning, and warranty work as dictated by project. All projects do not require travel, but when warranted, most stays are from 1 to 2 days, some could be more.

Why Join Us
  • Work on custom industrial automation and engineered systems
  • Be involved from concept through startup and customer acceptance
  • Collaborative environment with hands-on engineering involvement
  • Opportunity to grow technically and professionally within a highly specialized industry