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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Controls Engineer We are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to join our team ... Experience in industrial automation and programming the person/Rockwell PLCs. * Knowledge of high ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

It involves solving complex automation and programming challenges with no supervision and escalating only the most critical issues when necessary. The Sr. Controls Engineer is expected to be ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Bowling Green, KY · Hybrid

$125K - $141K/yr

If you enjoy complex automation challenges and want your work to have meaningful impact across ... a controls or automation engineering role * Strong PLC and HMI programming experience with ...

Controls Engineer

Louisville, KY · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

... to controls of such systems. * Experience with Allen Bradley PLC programming. Preferred ... automation, and real-time manufacturing analytics. * Working knowledge of Manufacturing Execution ...

Controls Engineer

Louisville, KY

$80K - $103K/yr

... to controls of such systems. * Experience with Allen Bradley PLC programming. Preferred ... automation, and real-time manufacturing analytics. * Working knowledge of Manufacturing Execution ...

Controls Engineer (BOS USA)

Lexington, KY · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

At BOS Innovations, we're not just developing automation solutions, we're redefining what ... BOS Innovations LLC - Lexington, KY About the Role As a Controls Engineer at BOS Innovations, you ...

Controls Engineer (BOS USA)

Lexington, KY · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

At BOS Innovations, we're not just developing automation solutions, we're redefining what ... BOS Innovations LLC - Lexington, KY About the Role As a Controls Engineer at BOS Innovations, you ...

Controls Engineer (BOS USA)

Lexington, KY · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

At BOS Innovations, we're not just developing automation solutions, we're redefining what ... BOS Innovations LLC - Lexington, KY About the Role As a Controls Engineer at BOS Innovations, you ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

The Sr Controls Engineer will be a vital contributor and engineering leader in all phases of our ... Bachelor's in engineering or Mechatronics/Automation with 5+ years of experience, or master's with ...

Contract Responsibilities: - Lead or support electrical, controls, and automation work in a ... operations, engineering, vendors, and leadership - Support plant safety, uptime, documentation ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Florence, KY · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

The Sr Controls Engineer will be a vital contributor and engineering leader in all phases of our ... Bachelor's in engineering or Mechatronics/Automation with 5+ years of experience, or master's with ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Henderson, KY · On-site

$87K - $115K/yr

Design and engineering of programmable logic controls (PLC's) and modifications for a wide variety ... Experience with Automation motion devices. Servo motors and controllers, variable frequence drives.

Senior Controls Engineer

Henderson, KY

$87K - $115K/yr

Design and engineering of programmable logic controls (PLC's) and modifications for a wide variety ... Experience with Automation motion devices. Servo motors and controllers, variable frequence drives.

ILUS - Controls Engineer III

Erlanger, KY · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Job Summary The Controls Engineer III designs control systems for industrial material handling ... In-depth knowledge of industrial automation systems, including HMI and SCADA systems, Allen-Bradley ...

Showing results 41-60

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$40K

$85.3K

$122K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 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.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in KY? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in KY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,277 per year, or $41 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Actalent

Louisville, KY

$120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls EngineerJob Description

We are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to join our team, specializing in conveyor and sortation integration and controls programming. The role involves programming PLCs, variable frequency drives, and specifying electrical hardware and control devices to meet application requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to work on designing complete control solutions for complex automated systems.

Responsibilities
  • Program PLCs, including the person 5000 and other models, as well as Rockwell Variable Frequency Drives.
  • Specify electrical hardware and control devices, including PLC hardware components, servo and VFD controllers, and field IO devices.
  • Familiarize yourself with the application of distributed control solutions using networks such as the person, ProfiNet, Sercos, and Our Client link.
  • Lead design efforts for complete control solutions for complex automated systems.
  • Apply kinematic equations of motion to develop material handling algorithms and timing parameters.
  • Develop and implement machine control software using platforms like Rockwell, Schneider, and Siemens.
  • Design control panels for research and development projects using AutoCAD Electrical.
Essential Skills
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
  • Experience in industrial automation and programming the person/Rockwell PLCs.
  • Knowledge of high-speed systems, sortation/sorter systems, mail or package systems, and material handling or conveyor systems.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience with companies like UPS, FedEx, Amazon, or DHL is highly preferred.
Work Environment

You will be working in a state-of-the-art office and shop, built less than four years ago. The role involves less than 20% travel, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Our company is a technology and innovation leader, providing solutions specifically designed for the material handling industry. By joining us, you will be part of a team that combines industry expertise with cutting-edge technology.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of Louisville, KY.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $120000.00/yr.

Medical, Dental, Vision, AD&D, basic life insurance HSA 401k contributions will start on day one and match up to 4% of 5% employee contribution. Match ½% for your 4% contribution and ½% for your 5% contribution. If you put in 5% we match with 4%.

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Louisville,KY.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 7, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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