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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Automation Controls Engineer

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$82K - $108K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer Posting Start Date: 8/19/26 Job Location (Short): Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 53204-2941 Requisition ID: 36658 Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position Join Komatsu and Be Part ...

WI ยท On-site

$190 - $230/hr

MANAGER, AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEERING (POWER GENERATION & UTILITIES) We are looking for a Manager of Automation and Controls Engineering to own the design, build-out, commissioning, and ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Germantown, WI ยท On-site

$98K - $130K/yr

MGS has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Controls Engineer to join our MGS Germantown Automation team. As a Senior Controls Engineer at MGS, you will be responsible for the design of industrial ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Germantown, WI ยท On-site

$98K - $130K/yr

MGS has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Controls Engineer to join our MGS Germantown Automation team. As a Senior Controls Engineer at MGS, you will be responsible for the design of industrial ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Germantown, WI ยท On-site

$98K - $130K/yr

MGS has an exciting opportunity for a Senior Controls Engineer to join our MGS Germantown Automation team. As a Senior Controls Engineer at MGS, you will be responsible for the design of industrial ...

Under the direction of an Automation/Controls Engineer at Promega's small molecule manufacturing facility, this person will obtain hands-on work experience by completing automation projects to ...

Under the direction of an Automation/Controls Engineer at Promega's small molecule manufacturing facility, this person will obtain hands-on work experience by completing automation projects to ...

WI ยท On-site

$80 - $100/hr

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER, LAUNCH PAD (STARSHIP) SpaceX's Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket, collectively known as Starship, is a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry ...

Automation & Controls Specialist

Milwaukee, WI ยท On-site

$82K - $108K/yr

The Automation and Controls Specialist at the Milwaukee, WI site is responsible for designing, programming, and implementing control strategies to optimize manufacturing processes using advanced ...

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Automation Controls Engineer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$46.4K

$99.1K

$141.8K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Wisconsin is $99,105.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,300.00 and $111,500.00 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,105 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer

M4 Control Systems

Milwaukee, WI โ€ข On-site

$82K - $108K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs to support customer automation and control projects.

  • Develop and modify HMI applications for industrial control systems.

  • Participate in project planning, programming, testing, startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer support.


Job description

About M4 Control Systems

M4 Control Systems is a control systems integrator specializing in automation and controls for the food and dairy industry. We design and implement the electrical and software systems that power modern manufacturing facilities, including control panels, electrical schematics, PLC programming, HMI development, robotics integration, and onsite commissioning.


We are seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to join our growing team in Milwaukee, WI. This is an exciting opportunity to join M4 and play a key role in supporting our continued growth and delivering innovative automation and controls solutions to our customers.


Position Summary

The Automation & Controls Engineer is responsible for supporting the execution of automation and control projects for M4 Control Systems customers. This position will be involved in multiple phases of projects, including system design, programming, testing, startup, troubleshooting, commissioning, and customer support.


Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs to support customer automation and control projects.
  • Develop and modify HMI applications for industrial control systems.
  • Prepare electrical and control system documentation, including control panel layouts, network diagrams, system architectures, and electrical schematics.
  • Participate in project planning, programming, testing, startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and customer support.
  • Work directly with customers, project managers, engineers, technicians, and other project team members to successfully implement and deliver automation solutions.
  • Configure and support industrial control system networks and related hardware.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve automation, controls, and electrical system issues both remotely and at customer facilities.
  • Prepare and maintain project documentation, including drawings, programming documentation, test records, and system operating information.
  • Apply industry standards, control system best practices, and M4 Control Systemsโ€™ engineering processes throughout project development and implementation.
  • Travel to customer facilities as required for installation, startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and project support.
  • Conduct yourself in a manner consistent with M4 Control Systemsโ€™ mission, values, policies, code of ethics, and standards of conduct.


Required Knowledge and Skills

  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering, Automation Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or a related engineering or technical field.
  • 2โ€“5 years of relevant professional experience in industrial automation, controls engineering, electrical engineering, manufacturing, or a related field.
  • Working knowledge and experience with the engineering, programming, and implementation of industrial control systems.
  • Understanding of control systems, PLCs, HMIs, electrical components, instrumentation, and industrial networks and their applications.
  • Strong technical problem-solving skills with proven project experience.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, schematics, technical documents, and process information.
  • Ability to prepare technical documentation, reports, drawings, and project-related correspondence.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact professionally with customers, coworkers, management, and project teams.
  • Must be a self-starter with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and changing priorities.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively as part of a project team.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
  • Proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.


Preferred Knowledge and Skills

  • Experience with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms, including ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000, and FactoryTalk View.
  • Experience with industrial communication networks and protocols, including EtherNet/IP.
  • Experience with electrical design and documentation, including AutoCAD, SolidWorks Electrical, control panel layouts, network diagrams, system architectures, and electrical schematics.
  • Experience with Visual Studio, SQL, or similar development and database tools.
  • Experience with SCADA, robotics, motion control, VFDs, or industrial instrumentation.
  • Experience with onsite installation, startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting of industrial automation systems.
  • Experience in food, dairy, beverage, or other industrial manufacturing environments.
  • Knowledge of applicable industry standards and control system best practices.


Additional Requirements

  • Valid driverโ€™s license and willingness to travel to customer facilities for installation, startup, commissioning, troubleshooting, and project support.
  • Ability to work safely in industrial manufacturing environments and around operating equipment.
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug screening.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.


M4 Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.