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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Koch Industries

Process Controls Engineer

Neenah, WI · On-site

... automation, or industrial systems. * Experience with DCS and PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial communication networks * Experience working with instrumentation, process control ...

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All JobsAutomation Control Engineer JobsAutomation Control Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

Automation Control Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$36.1K

$104.5K

$159K

How much do automation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation control engineer in Appleton, WI is $104,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation control engineer?

An Automation Control Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems that control automated processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. They work with technologies like programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and robotics to optimize and streamline production or operational workflows. Their work ensures efficiency, safety, and reliability in automated systems. Automation Control Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to implement and troubleshoot control solutions.

How does an automation control engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Automation Control Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as production and maintenance teams, to design, implement, and optimize automated systems. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as engineers must integrate control systems with other disciplines and ensure seamless operation within the larger production environment. Regular meetings, design reviews, and troubleshooting sessions are common, enabling the team to address challenges quickly and maintain project timelines. Building strong professional relationships and understanding each team's needs can greatly improve project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and process automation, often requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and relevant industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help set top candidates apart. Mastery of these skills ensures reliable system performance, smooth integration of automated solutions, and efficient troubleshooting in complex industrial environments.

What is the difference between Automation Control Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Control EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automation, Control Systems, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsPower plants, electrical design firms, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower, construction, electronics

Automation Control Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated systems and control processes, often working with PLCs and SCADA. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Automation Control Engineers specialize in automation technology within industrial environments.

Does an automation control engineer pay well?

Automation control engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and industry. They often have specialized skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and control system design, which can lead to higher compensation. Overall, the role is considered well-paying within the engineering field.

What job categories do people searching Automation Control Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Control Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:

Automation Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Control Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,526 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Automation Manufacturing Engineer (GB)

Fox Valley Metal Tech, Inc.

Green Bay, WI • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Fox Valley Metal Tech rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

THIS POSITION IS LOCATED IN GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN
Basic Job Purpose:
The Automation Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing automation solutions that improve operational efficiency and productivity thus improving safety and quality throughout the manufacturing facility. This role will lead the evaluation, integration, and optimization of Automated welding and finishing platforms with a secondary emphasis on automated material handling systems while driving continuous improvement initiatives across Operations and manufacturing operations.
Working closely with operations and production supervisors, as well as all engineering teams, the engineer will identify process bottlenecks, reduce manual labor requirements, improve consistency, and deploy automation technologies that support scalable growth and operational excellence.
Assignment of Functions and Responsibilities:
Robotics & Automation Leadership
  • Lead the development, implementation, and optimization of Automated welding and grinding, robotic sanding, and automated finishing systems.
  • Identify automation opportunities within welding, finishing, assembly, and material handling operations.
  • Develop automation roadmaps and business cases that improve throughput, quality, ergonomics, and labor utilization.
  • Program, troubleshoot, and optimize robotic systems and peripheral equipment to maximize performance and uptime.
  • Collaborate with equipment vendors and integrators on automation projects from concept through production launch.
  • Evaluate and implement vision systems, sensors, tooling, fixturing, positioners, conveyors, and machine-tending solutions.
  • Support offline programming and process validation for robotic welding and finishing applications.
  • Lead automation-related capital equipment projects, including equipment selection, justification, installation, and commissioning.

Welding & Finishing Process Optimization
  • Improve robotic and manual welding processes through fixture design, process control, and standardization.
  • Analyze finishing operations and implement technologies that reduce cycle times and improve surface quality.
  • Support Design for Manufacturability (DFM) initiatives to improve automation compatibility of products and assemblies.

Continuous Improvement
  • Lead Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives focused on waste reduction, labor efficiency, quality improvement, and throughput gains.
  • Utilize root cause analysis and data-driven problem solving to address recurring production challenges.
  • Monitor and improve key performance indicators including:
    • OEE
    • Throughput
    • Cycle Time
    • Downtime
    • Scrap and Rework
    • Labor Efficiency
  • Facilitate Kaizen events and process improvement projects throughout the facility.
  • Develop standardized work instructions and best practices for automated processes.

Cross-Functional Support
  • Work directly with welders, fabricators, operators, maintenance technicians, and supervisors to identify and implement improvements.
  • Train production personnel on current cobot, and future robotic systems, automated equipment, and process changes.
  • Collaborate with Operations teams to improve equipment reliability and preventive maintenance programs.
  • Ensure all automation systems comply with safety, quality, and regulatory requirements.

Success Measures
  • Successful implementation of robotic welding and finishing automation projects.
  • Increased throughput and capacity within fabrication and finishing operations.
  • Reduction in finishing cycle times and ergonomic risks.
  • Reduction in scrap, rework, and production bottlenecks.
  • Achievement of annual cost savings and continuous improvement objectives.

Minimum Requirements for Education, Skillset, Qualifications, and Experience:
Required
  • Must be a US citizen
  • A minimum of an associate's degree in manufacturing engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or related field; equivalent manufacturing experience may be considered.
  • Experience within a fabrication, welding, machining, or manufacturing environment.
  • Strong understanding of welding processes, fabrication methods, and manufacturing operations.
  • Experience implementing automation solutions in a production environment.
  • Demonstrated project management and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively on the shop floor and communicate with personnel at all organizational levels.

Preferred
  • Experience with industrial robotic systems
  • Robotic welding programming and troubleshooting experience.
  • Experience with robotic grinding, polishing, or finishing applications.
  • Knowledge of PLC programming and industrial controls.
  • Experience with machine vision systems and automated inspection technologies.
  • CAD experience for fixture and tooling design.
  • Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma experience.
  • Hands-on welding, fabrication, or manufacturing engineering experience.

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