Controls Engineer – PVD Systems (Inline & Cluster Tools)
Location: Perrysburg, OH (preferred)
Reports To: Service Manager
Travel: Up to 25%, as required
About the Role
We are looking for a Controls Engineer to support advanced PVD (physical vapor deposition) inline and cluster tool platforms. This is a hybrid field-and-office-based position focused on developing, integrating, and supporting automation and controls systems for high-performance thin film deposition equipment used in precision manufacturing environments.
The ideal candidate will be based near Perrysburg, OH, and have experience working directly with customers on system control integration and optimization. You’ll work closely with engineering, service, and internal/external teams to ensure tools perform to exacting standards in high-volume, high-reliability applications.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and implement PLC-based control systems for inline and cluster PVD equipment
- Integrate new control logic, sensors, and automation features to meet evolving customer requirements
- Diagnose and troubleshoot control system issues (remotely and onsite)
- Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software teams to support system-level improvements
- Support on-site customer integration and upgrades (approx. 25% travel as needed)
- Document control architectures, ladder logic, I/O maps, and safety protocols
Required Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in controls engineering, preferably with industrial vacuum or capital equipment systems
- Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming, especially Siemens (TIA Portal)
- Familiarity with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell platforms also beneficial
- Experience with HMI/SCADA systems, sensors, motion control, and safety systems
- Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and team collaboration skills
- Comfortable working in both office and customer site environments
Preferred Background
- Experience supporting vacuum-based deposition systems, semiconductor tools, or high-tech capital equipment
- Previous customer-facing engineering work in thin film, solar, or consumer electronics industries
- Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and precision automation environments
Skills Required
- 3+ years of experience in controls engineering
- Experience with industrial vacuum or capital equipment systems
- Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming, especially Siemens (TIA Portal)
- Familiarity with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell platforms
- Experience with HMI/SCADA systems
- Experience with sensors, motion control, and safety systems
- Excellent troubleshooting, communication, and team collaboration skills
- Comfortable working in both office and customer site environments
- Experience supporting vacuum-based deposition systems, semiconductor tools, or high-tech capital equipment
- Previous customer-facing engineering work in thin film, solar, or consumer electronics industries
- Familiarity with cleanroom protocols and precision automation environments
What We Do
Vital Chemicals USA LLC is a global leader in materials technology and a leading provider of high-quality chemical solutions in the United States. The company specializes in the production and distribution of specialty chemicals and rare-metals-based materials, employing a 'Source to Solutions' approach. Its capabilities support diverse sectors including semiconductors, energy, automotive, electronics, and optics, with a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.
