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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Itape

$90 - $120/hr

Engineering Manager Location : On-Site in our Blythewood, SC Facility Position Purpose: Serve as ... Lead controls improvements and automation projects to improve safety, reliability, uptime, and ...

Itape

$85 - $120/hr

Lead controls improvements and automation projects to improve safety, reliability, uptime, and manufacturing performance. Principle Accountabilities * Serve as the site's primary Controls Engineer ...

faurecia S.A.

Controls Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Commitment to the highest ethical standards and willingness to adhere to Faurecia's Code of Ethics and Code of Management Automation/Controls Responsibilities * Trouble shooting and programming PLCs ...

Colmac

$123 - $152/hr

Controls Engineering & Automation*** Develop, program, test, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, motion control, SCADA, and robotic systems.* Configure and commission controls systems, servo systems, VFDs ...

Contractor Service & Fabrication, Inc.

$65 - $90/hr

The Automation & Controls Specialist is responsible for maintaining and improving automation ... A secondary responsibility is to support training, Robot and PLC programming, motion control ...

K

Controls Engineer - Assembly Automation

Georgetown, KY · On-site

$135 - $146/hr

Controls Engineer - Assembly Automation Georgetown, KY, US 5 days ago Requisition ID: 1125 Salary Range: $65.00 To $70.00 Hourly Controls Engineer - Assembly Automation Location: Georgetown, KY ...

PHOENIX Process Equipment Co

Be Seen First

Automation & Controls Technician

Louisville, KY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Technician to join our growing OEM engineering team! This role focuses on refining electrical and instrumentation control components and systems ...

Extol, Inc.

$90 - $135/hr

At Extol, we're looking for a driven, hands-on Launch Controls Engineer to directly support the implementation and installation of custom automation equipment. This role is unique, giving you the ...

Coats Company

$85 - $110/hr

Controls Engineer Automation / Manufacturing Engineering Department Automation / Manufacturing Engineering Reports To Engineering Manager Employment Type Full-Time, Exempt / Salaried Position Summary ...

MSI Express, INC

$85 - $125/hr

This role involves working on a variety of industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, HMIs ... in a controls engineering role in a manufacturing environment OR 3-5 years of experience in a ...

Webasto

Controls Engineer

Lexington, KY · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer Make individual mobility more enjoyable and sustainable by advancing technology ... Create and maintain controls documentation, electrical schematics, and automation standards

Pinnaql, Inc.

$110 - $160/hr

Senior Automation Engineer Job Summary We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to support an ... Coordinate engineering design, system integration, migration, controls modifications, and ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$40K

$85.3K

$122K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Kentucky is $85,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,500.00 and $96,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation controls engineer?

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.

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 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.

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The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:

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For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,277 per year, or $41 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Toyoda Gosei North America Corporation

Hopkinsville, KY • On-site

$70K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and implement automation and control solutions for manufacturing equipment and processes.

  • Program, modify, and optimize PLC, HMI, machine vision, and motion control systems.

  • Perform root cause analysis on equipment and process failures and develop long-term corrective actions.

Toyoda Gosei Americas rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Education
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
  • 3-5 years of experience supporting industrial automation, controls engineering, or advanced manufacturing systems.

Technical Skills
  • Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC and HMI platforms including:
    • Omron
    • Allen-Bradley / Rockwell
    • Mitsubishi
    • Pro-face
  • Knowledge of:
    • Servo systems and motion control
    • Industrial networking and communication protocols
    • Robotics integration and automated equipment
    • Machine vision systems
  • Experience with machine vision and sensor technologies including:
    • Cognex
    • Keyence
    • SICK
    • Banner
    • Balluff
    • Turck
  • Ability to develop and troubleshoot:
    • PLC ladder logic
    • Structured Text
    • HMI applications
    • SQL databases and data collection systems
  • Experience with electrical system design, controls architecture, and industrial equipment integration.
  • Understanding of manufacturing automation, process controls, and smart factory technologies.
  • AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, or equivalent design software experience preferred.

Professional Skills
  • Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis abilities.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Ability to lead technical projects from concept through implementation.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
  • Experience training and mentoring maintenance and production personnel.

Key Responsibilities
Automation & Controls Development
  • Design, develop, and implement automation and control solutions for manufacturing equipment and processes.
  • Program, modify, and optimize PLC, HMI, machine vision, and motion control systems.
  • Support the integration of robotics, sensors, and automated inspection technologies.

Equipment & System Improvement
  • Improve equipment reliability, productivity, quality, and safety through innovative automation solutions.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend implementation opportunities that support smart manufacturing initiatives.
  • Lead automation upgrades and retrofit projects.

New Equipment & Product Launch Support
  • Support design reviews, equipment installations, commissioning, and startup activities.
  • Collaborate with suppliers, contractors, and internal teams during equipment integration projects.
  • Lead controls and automation activities for new product introductions and equipment launches.

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement
  • Perform root cause analysis on equipment and process failures.
  • Develop long-term corrective actions that improve system performance and reduce downtime.
  • Support manufacturing and maintenance teams with advanced troubleshooting and technical guidance.

Project Leadership
  • Manage automation and controls projects from concept through completion.
  • Create and maintain electrical drawings, documentation, standards, and technical specifications.
  • Participate in critical design and process reviews.

Team Development
  • Train and mentor maintenance, engineering, and production personnel on automation technologies and equipment operation.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and technical excellence.

Why Join Us?
  • Work with advanced automation, machine vision, and smart manufacturing technologies.
  • Opportunity to influence future manufacturing systems and equipment design.
  • High-impact role driving productivity, quality, and innovation.
  • Collaborative environment where electrical, mechanical, software, and manufacturing disciplines work together to solve challenging engineering problems.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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