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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Hickory, NC

Daniels Health

Senior Controls Engineer

Dallas, NC · 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 ...

Corning

Controls Engineer III

Newton, NC · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

It requires advanced technical leadership in troubleshooting complex automation issues, integrating ... the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence ...

DivIHN Integration Inc

PLC Controls Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

PLC Controls Engineer Location: Hickory, NC Duration: 6 Months Initial 6-month contract, but there ... Implement robust, cost-effective automation and process machine control systems. * Interface with ...

Corning

Sr. Controls Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

... the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence ... effective automation and process machine control systems. • Interface with external system ...

Corning

Sr. Controls Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Mentor and train junior controls engineers Manage the controls engineering scope of process ... Implement robust, cost effective automation and process machine control systems. Interface with ...

Corning

Sr. Controls Engineer

Newton, NC

$105K - $145K/yr

... the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence ... effective automation and process machine control systems. • Interface with external system ...

Corning

Controls Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$88K - $122K/yr

Manage the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence ... Implement robust, cost effective automation and process machine control systems. Interface with ...

Corning

Controls Engineer

Newton, NC · On-site

$88K - $122K/yr

... the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence ... effective automation and process machine control systems. • Interface with external system ...

Corning

Controls Engineer

Newton, NC

$88K - $122K/yr

... the controls engineering scope of process improvement, capital expansion, and obsolescence ... effective automation and process machine control systems. • Interface with external system ...

ProStaffing

Electrical Engineer

Statesville, NC

$85K - $100K/yr

Statesville, NC POSITION OVERVIEW ProStaffing is seeking an Electrical / Controls Engineer to design, develop, program, and maintain automation and control systems used in industrial equipment and ...

Blum, Inc

Controls Specialist

Stanley, NC · On-site

Minimum 3 years of experience in an automated industrial manufacturing environment with a focus on PC and PLC-based automation controls, installation, programming, design, and troubleshooting ...

Prysmian USA

Automation Engineer

Claremont, NC · On-site

Provide controls and automation support for the manufacture of optical fiber * Help resolve daily ... S. in Engineering or Computer Science * Experience with programming Rockwell (Allen-Bradley ...

Prysmian USA

Automation Engineer

Claremont, NC · On-site

$85K - $135K/yr

Provide controls and automation support for the manufacture of optical fiber * Help resolve daily ... S. in Engineering or Computer Science * Experience with programming Rockwell (Allen-Bradley ...

Prysmian

Automation Engineer

Claremont, NC · On-site

$40.87 - $64.90/hr

Provide controls and automation support for the manufacture of optical fiber * Help resolve daily ... S. in Engineering or Computer Science * Experience with programming Rockwell (Allen-Bradley ...

Torrey Holistics

Automation Engineer

Claremont, NC · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Develop and maintain PLC programsProvide controls and automation support for the manufacture of ... S. in Engineering or Computer ScienceExperience with programming Rockwell (Allen-Bradley ...

Green New Energy Materials

HVAC Engineer

Denver, NC · On-site

Coordinate with automation and controls engineers to optimize HVAC control strategies. * Monitor HVAC performance trends and implement control improvements to reduce downtime and energy consumption ...

Corning

Automation Measurements Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

As an Automation Measurement Engineer, you'll lead the design and integration of advanced ... Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, controls, software, and manufacturing teams to define ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Hickory, NC

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$41.2K

$87.9K

$125.8K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Hickory, NC is $87,909.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,800.00 and $98,900.00 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.

More about Automation Controls Engineer jobs

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:

Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,909 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Daniels Health

Dallas, NC • Hybrid

$125K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Daniels Health rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Daniels Health is seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to join our growing US engineering team and help design, build, and optimize the next generation of automated medical waste processing systems. This is a handson, highimpact role where you will work at the intersection of PLC control systems, robotics, and machine vision in safetycritical, highthroughput industrial environments. If you enjoy complex automation challenges and want your work to have meaningful impact across healthcare safety and environmental outcomes, this role offers both technical depth and scale.
 
Daniels Health is a global leader in healthcare waste management and infection prevention, partnering with hospitals and health systems across the United States and internationally.
 
We are experiencing strong and sustained growth, driven by expanding healthcare demand and continued investment in automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. This is a hybrid role. Travel will be required throughout the USA and Canada and some other overseas locations. Travel to Taylor, Michigan will be required for Induction training. 
What You Will Do:
  • Design, develop, program, and maintain PLCbased control systems for advanced medical waste processing equipment,
  • Integrate, program, and commission industrial robots for material handling, sorting, and automated processing
  • Design, implement, and optimize machine vision systems for detection, classification, inspection, and process verification
  • Train, tune, and validate vision models to ensure accuracy, robustness, and regulatory compliance
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, robotics, and software engineering teams to deliver fully integrated automation solutions
  • Support commissioning, troubleshooting, and rootcause analysis across controls, robotics, and vision systems
  • Prepare and review electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic control drawings for new equipment and system upgrades
  • Develop system documentation including functional specifications, control narratives, operator manuals, maintenance documentation, and validation protocols
  • Ensure all control system designs comply with applicable US medical waste, environmental, and machine safety regulations
  • Work closely with suppliers, system integrators, and external service providers to deliver projects on time and to specification
  • Drive continuous improvement in automation performance, reliability, safety, and sustainability
About You:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a related discipline
  • 8+ years of experience in a controls or automation engineering role
  • Strong PLC and HMI programming experience with platforms such as AllenBradley, Siemens, Beckhoff, or Automation
  • Direct Handson industrial robotics experience including programming, commissioning, and safety integration (FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Hyundai, or similar)
  • Strong machine vision experience using Cognex, Keyence, OpenCV, or comparable systems
  • Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and OPC UA
  • Experience with motion control, servo systems, and safetyrated automation components
  • Ability to read and create electrical schematics, P&IDs, and mechanical drawings
  • Experience working in regulated or safetycritical environments such as medical, pharmaceutical, or waste processing is highly desirable
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problemsolving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate across crossfunctional teams
  • Ability to work independently and manage projects with multiple stakeholders and vendors
  • Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required
Why Join Daniels?
  • Work on largescale, complex industrial automation systems with realworld impact
  • Be part of a rapidly growing organization investing heavily in robotics, machine vision, and advanced controls
  • High autonomy with strong engineering influence and endtoend system ownership
  • Career growth aligned with a scaling US and global business
  • Purposedriven work in a highly regulated, safetycritical environment
$125,375 - $141,079 a year
"The pay range for this position is $125,375to $141,079 salary. Actual compensation within this range will depend on factors unique to each candidate, such as prior experience, skill, certifications, and work location. Pay variations by location reflect local conditions and differences in the cost of labor. 
 
At Daniels Health, we are committed to supporting our employees' well-being, work-life balance, and career growth through a comprehensive benefit package. Eligible employees enjoy benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans with company match contributions, paid vacation and sick time, wellness resources, life insurance, and professional development opportunities."
Check out what our engineering teams do!
 
https://youtu.be/Czre5y3WvDs?si=qJWpLS5MIwIzPXJ4
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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