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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Engineer I

Hamel, MN · On-site

$66K - $96K/yr

Motor controls and variable speed drives Licenses/Certifications: EIT Knowledge, Skills and ... Post-secondary education at the associate degree level or higher will be verified, including degree ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Controls Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$53.9K

$94.6K

$128.3K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate controls engineer in Minnesota is $94,586.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $105,800.00 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 Minnesota? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,586 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Automation Technician II - Controls

Automation Technician II - Controls

Oshkosh Corporation

Dodge Center, MN • On-site

$23 - $37.44/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

250th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About McNeilus, an Oshkosh Company

McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing Inc. is committed to serving everyday heroes and is an industry leading designer and manufacturer of refuse truck bodies. McNeilus produces a complete line of high-performance rear load, front load, and automated side load refuse bodies to augment any refuse collection fleet. Our team members are critical in our mission of supporting waste warriors and keeping communities safe and clean.

JOB SUMMARY

The Automation Technician II is a senior-level technical role responsible for advanced support, troubleshooting, programming, and optimization of automated manufacturing systems. This position serves as a technical expert for robotics, PLCs, motion control, and automated fabrication equipment, while supporting equipment commissioning, continuous improvement initiatives, and mentoring lower-level technicians.

Pay Range: $23 - $37.44

YOUR IMPACT

  • Program, troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize ABB and/or Yaskawa robotic systems used in:

    • Arc welding

    • Material handling

    • Painting applications

  • Provide advanced support for automated fabrication and CNC equipment, including:

    • Plasma and laser cutting systems

    • Press brakes

    • Machining centers

  • Diagnose and resolve complex issues involving robotic cells, CNC machines, and automation control systems

  • Perform advanced PLC troubleshooting and programming using Allen-Bradley (Rockwell Automation) platforms

  • Troubleshoot, configure, and support:

    • Servo drives

    • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)

    • Motion control systems

  • Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain HMI systems

  • Read, interpret, and troubleshoot using electrical prints, schematics, and one-line diagrams

  • Support equipment commissioning, startups, upgrades, and continuous improvement projects

  • Conduct system analysis to identify root causes and recommend long-term corrective actions

  • Partner with engineering, maintenance, and operations to improve equipment reliability and performance

  • Provide technical guidance and mentoring to Automation Technician I and II team members

  • Demonstrate strong safety leadership and ensure compliance with all safety procedures and good manufacturing practices

  • Respond to unplanned and emergency work requests in a timely and effective manner

  • Perform additional duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School Diploma or GED and completion of a formal trades training program or equivalent combination of education and experience

  • 3 or more years of industrial maintenance and/or automation experience, including advanced knowledge of:

    • Electricity and motor controls

    • Controls and instrumentation

    • PLC software and hardware

    • Robotics and automation systems

    • Pneumatics and hydraulics

    • Mechanical systems

    • Preventative maintenance

    • Maintenance planning

    • System analysis and advanced troubleshooting

    • Arc Flash ratings and precautions

    • Lockout tag out procedures

STANDOUT QUALIFICATIONS

  • Associate degree or certification in electrical, mechanical, automation, or industrial maintenance technology, and electronics

  • Advanced experience with robotic programming and integration (ABB, Yaskawa preferred)

  • Experience with AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicle) or AMRs (Autonomous Guided Robot)

  • Experience with automation platforms including:

    • Rockwell Automation

    • Siemens

    • GE

    • Horner

    • Opto22

  • Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols:

    • Ethernet/IP

    • DeviceNet

    • Modbus

    • HART

    • DH+/485

    • ASCII

  • Proven ability to lead technical problem-solving efforts and support continuous improvement initiatives

  • Strong communication skills and ability to work independently and within a team

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.

Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer.Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.


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