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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Generac

Senior Controls Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

Formalized training and/or education in Industrial Automation, Engineering, Computer Science or MIS Preferred Qualifications * 5 + years' experience with three-phase AC power system controls and ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

ENR Top 500 Firm We have a Controls Engineer opportunity in Lakewood, CO. This person will be a ... Implement advanced automation and safety strategies, PHA, C+Es, historian integration, and alarm ...

Generac

Senior Controls Engineer

Fort Collins, CO · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

Formalized training and/or education in Industrial Automation, Engineering, Computer Science or MIS Preferred Qualifications * 5 + years' experience with three-phase AC power system controls and ...

Forge Nano

Controls Engineer II

Thornton, CO

Controls Engineer II Summary Forge Nano Inc. is a fast-growing materials company with a focus on ... This position will focus on developing the automation, logic, and safety schemes for their ...

Forge Nano

Controls Engineer II

Thornton, CO · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer II Summary Forge Nano Inc. is a fast-growing materials company with a focus on ... This position will focus on developing the automation, logic, and safety schemes for their ...

New

Forge Nano

Controls Engineer II

Thornton, CO · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer II Summary Forge Nano Inc. is a fast-growing materials company with a focus on ... This position will focus on developing the automation, logic, and safety schemes for their ...

New

IDEX

Manufacturing Process Controls Engineer

Denver, CO

$86K - $129K/yr

With interesting opportunities in engineering, marketing, sales, supply chain, operations, HR ... Establish and maintain sustainable factory-wide standards for automation controls (hardware and ...

Ursa Major

Senior Controls Engineer

Berthoud, CO · On-site

$110K - $137K/yr

As a Senior Manufacturing Controls Engineer at Ursa Major, you will help drive the design, implementation, and upkeep of custom automation tools and SCADA connectivity through our propulsion systems ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$48.4K

$103.2K

$147.7K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Colorado is $103,245.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,800.00 and $116,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

An Automation Controls Engineer can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large industrial or manufacturing settings. High salaries are often associated with senior positions, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and automation software, as well as working in high-demand industries or companies with complex automation needs.

What are Automation Controls Engineers?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What Does an Automation Controls Engineer Do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

How much do spacex automation controls engineers make?

Automation Controls Engineers at SpaceX typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often require knowledge of PLC programming, robotics, and control systems, with some roles offering additional benefits and bonuses.

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

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Automation Controls Engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLC programming, robotics, and systems integration can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and leadership responsibilities.

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

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

What does a controls and Automation Engineer do?

A controls and automation engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to improve efficiency and safety in manufacturing or industrial environments. Strong technical skills and knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems are essential for this role.
More about Automation Controls Engineer jobs
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Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,245 per year, or $49.6 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Generac

Denver, CO • On-site, Remote

$115K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago

Generac Power Systems rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 417 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

We believe power is a promise - a shared commitment to be there for others when it matters most.

For more than 65 years, we've turned big ideas into solutions that help protect homes, strengthen businesses and build a more resilient, efficient, sustainable energy future.


Ready to Power a Smarter World with us?


The Senior Controls Engineer serves as the technical lead for advanced microgrid control system projects within the Generac Microgrid Controls Team. This role owns projects endtoend-from sales handover through system development, commissioning, and ongoing operational support-while balancing handson technical execution with process improvement and crossfunctional collaboration.

This position plays a critical role in supporting a growing portfolio of microgrid projects, including live customer systems, and requires strong accountability, technical depth, and comfort operating in customerfacing, highpressure environments. In addition to project delivery, the Senior Controls Engineer contributes to team performance by mentoring peers, supporting knowledge sharing, and helping evolve project execution standards and processes. The role can be based anywhere in US or Canada and includes 30-40% travel for onsite commissioning activities.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the technical lead for advanced microgrid control system projects from sales handover through commissioning and ongoing support

  • Plan, develop, implement, test, and troubleshoot microgrid control systems to ensure successful project delivery

  • Lead onsite and remote startup and commissioning activities, including development and execution of commissioning test plans

  • Provide highlevel technical support for inprogress projects and operating microgrid systems, including triage and resolution of customer issues

  • Partner crossfunctionally with Controls Engineering, Service, Commissioning, and Sales teams to deliver strong customer outcomes

  • Balance handson project execution with continuous improvement of project processes, standards, and quality

  • Mentor and support team members through technical guidance, knowledge sharing, and collaboration

  • Communicate project status, challenges, and progress clearly to internal stakeholders and customers

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering

  • 5 + years' experience with programming Industrial controls, PLC's, HMI's and Industrial communication protocols

  • Formalized training and/or education in Industrial Automation, Engineering, Computer Science or MIS

Preferred Qualifications

  • 5 + years' experience with three-phase AC power system controls and automation

  • 5 + years' experience with controls and automation of generators, energy storage systems, solar PV systems, protective relays, and switchgear

  • Thorough understanding of industrial communication protocols, primarily Modbus RTU/TCP and DNP3

  • Advanced technical understanding of power control philosophy in voltage-forming and voltage-following applications

  • Experience managing technical projects through the full lifecycle, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, commissioning, close-out, and support

Great Reasons to work for Generac:

  • Competitive Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision,401kand many more

  • State-of-the-artfacility with an onsite gym, walking trails, cafe, freeparkingand manyemployeeactivities

  • Scheduled events throughout the year that allow our employees, both current and retirees, togather togetherand enjoy their time with their families and co-workers

  • Pride! When a storm strikes, Generac employees always rise to the occasion. Each time a storm hits,many employees volunteer their time with the customer support team or on the production line,while others go right intostorm-affected areas to repair generators

  • Make a positive impact. Generac has always been community-minded and dedicated to giving back.The company proudlyoffersa Volunteer Time Off program,invitingteam members toparticipateincharitable volunteer opportunities on company time.

  • We believe in having fun. From minor celebrations to major events, our employees balance their work by building a strong culture of teamwork and collaboration through a variety of occasions, including our Fun Days.

Generac is committed to fair andequitablecompensation practices.The salary range for this role based in Fort Collins, Colorado is $115,000 USD- $155,000 USD. This compensation willultimately bein line with the location in which the position is filled.Final compensation for this role will bedeterminedbyvarious factorssuch as a candidate's relevant work experience, skills,certificationsand geographic location.This role is eligible for variablecompensationincludingshort-termand long-term incentives.

This position includes a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental and vision plans; life, long-term disability, flexible spending and health savings accounts,accruedpaid time off, 8 paid Holidays and 401(k) retirement benefits."

"We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law."

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