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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Automation & Controls Engineer II

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$72K - $95K/yr

The engineer works independently on complex automation systems while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams. Domestic and international travel of 50% or greater may be required.

Specialist-Automation & Controls, Sr.

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $105K/yr

Reviews and approves control systems engineering deliverables from the EPC Contractor. * Prepares/Reviews Automation & Controls design and engineering deliverables including P&IDs, Instrument Index ...

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Showing results 41-60

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$42.9K

$91.5K

$130.9K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Texas is $91,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $102,900.00 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 Texas?

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

What cities in Texas are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in TX?

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

Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Texas 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 $91,476 per year, or $44 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer II

NOV, Inc.

San Antonio, TX

$72K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


NOV rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 496 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

JOB SUMMARY 

Applies advanced electrical design and engineering principles to design, develop, and implement automation systems for Fiber Glass Systems equipment. This role focuses on electrical and automation design for custom, one-off machinery including CNC winders and electrically and hydraulically driven equipment. The position has a strong emphasis on motion-based automation systems, including development and integration of motion control solutions using Delta Tau PMAC controllers, Allen-Bradley Kinetix servo systems, and Siemens SIMATIC motion control platforms. Responsibilities include leading portions of the design lifecycle including control system design, motion control development, component specification, documentation, system integration, testing, and commissioning. The engineer works independently on complex automation systems while collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams.  Domestic and international travel of 50% or greater may be required. 

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

    Design and develop electrical and automation systems for custom industrial machinery and automated equipment. 
    Develop PLC, HMI, and motion control programs for CNC winders and motion-based automation systems. 
    Design and implement multi-axis motion control systems using platforms such as Delta Tau PMAC controllers, Allen-Bradley Kinetix servo systems, and            Siemens SIMATIC motion platforms. 
    Configure and tune servo systems including motors, drives, encoders, and feedback devices. 
    Develop coordinated motion control strategies for precision automated machinery and multi-axis systems. 
    Create and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts using electrical CAD tools. 
    Select and specify automation hardware including PLCs, servo drives, motors, sensors, instrumentation, and safety devices. 
    Integrate motion control systems with mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic subsystems. 
    Lead troubleshooting, testing, and commissioning of automation and motion control systems in manufacturing and field environments. 
    Provide technical support during equipment build, installation, and startup. 
    Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, manufacturing personnel, and field service teams to ensure proper system integration. 
    Develop and maintain engineering documentation including I/O lists, bills of materials (BOM), control narratives, and motion system documentation. 
    Support root cause analysis and resolution of automation or motion control issues. 
    Ensure designs comply with applicable engineering standards, safety requirements, and industry codes. 
    Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians when appropriate.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATIONS

    Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related engineering discipline. 
    5 years of relevant engineering experience in electrical design, automation, or industrial control systems (internships or co-op experience may be                       considered).

JOB REQUIREMENTS

EIT not required but preferred  

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES

    Good communication skills both formal and informal.
    Structured and self-driven, but also able to work in a collaborative environment.


TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

    Strong knowledge of motion control systems used in automated machinery and CNC-based equipment. 
    Experience with Delta Tau PMAC motion controllers and multi-axis motion programming preferred 
    Experience with Allen-Bradley Kinetix servo drives and integrated motion systems. 
    Experience with Siemens SIMATIC motion control systems including SIMATIC PLC platforms and associated servo drive technologies. 
    Strong understanding of servo motor control, encoder feedback systems, and motion tuning techniques. 
    Knowledge of coordinated multi-axis motion control and machine synchronization. 
    Experience with industrial control systems including PLCs, motion control platforms, and automation architectures. 
    Experience with industrial communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, Modbus, Profinet, or other industrial networking technologies. 
    Understanding of industrial automation system architecture including PLC, HMI/SCADA, motion controllers, drives, and field device integration. 
    Ability to develop and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control system documentation. 
    Experience using AutoCAD Electrical or similar electrical design software. 
    Strong understanding of industrial automation components including sensors, motors, drives, and instrumentation. 
    Familiarity with industrial safety standards including NFPA 70/NEC and machine safety principles. 
    Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities in complex automation and motion systems. 
    Ability to collaborate effectively with engineering, manufacturing, field service, and operations teams. 
 

We offer a competitive benefits package starting first date of employment that includes: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K savings plan, paid time-off, and starting at 3 weeks of vacation! For more specifics, please visit our benefits page https://usbenefits.nov.com

NOV is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination or Harassment of Any Kind: NOV is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunities for everyone and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. NOV values inclusion and diversity; we encourage all qualified candidates to apply. 

Every day, the oil and gas industry's best minds put more than 150 years of experience to work to help our customers achieve lasting success.
We Power the Industry that Powers the World
Throughout every region in the world and across every area of drilling and production, our family of companies has provided the technical expertise, advanced equipment, and operational support necessary for success-now and in the future.
Global Family
We are a global family of thousands of individuals, working as one team to create a lasting impact for ourselves, our customers, and the communities where we live and work.
Purposeful Innovation
Through purposeful business innovation, product creation, and service delivery, we are driven to power the industry that powers the world better.
Service Above All
This drives us to anticipate our customers' needs and work with them to deliver the finest products and services on time and on budget.
Corporate
Our family of companies is supported by our global Corporate teams, providing expert knowledge from functions including Human Resources, Information Technology, Compliance, Finance, QHSE, Marketing and Legal centers of expertise.  We are structured to provide guidance and service above all to all our business operations.

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About NOV

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Throughout every region in the world and across every area of drilling and production, our family of companies has provided the technical expertise, advanced equipment and operational support necessary for success. We have the people, capabilities and vision to serve the needs of a challenging and evolving industry. One the world can’t live without. We are a global family of thousands of individuals, working as one team to create lasting impact for ourselves, our customers and the communities where we live and work. We take responsibility for each other and our company’s future, knowing that personal ownership leads to broader success. We believe in purposeful innovation because we see what others do not and we act. Through business innovation, product creation and service delivery, we are driven to power the industry that powers the world better.

Industry

Oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Houston, TX, US

Year founded

1841