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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Central Utility Controls Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

As a Central Utility Controls Engineer, you will support the definition of, development, testing ... Working knowledge of the following automation functions or similar. (Boiler Combustion Controls, 3 ...

Controls Engineer II

Houston, TX

$79K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer II or III Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be ... Develop automation solutions and participate in various phases of automation projects including ...

Central Utility Controls Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

As a Central Utility Controls Engineer, you will support the definition of, development, testing ... Working knowledge of the following automation functions or similar. (Boiler Combustion Controls, 3 ...

Controls Engineer II

Houston, TX

$79K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer II or III Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be ... Develop automation solutions and participate in various phases of automation projects including ...

As a Central Utility Controls Engineer, you will support the definition of, development, testing ... Working knowledge of the following automation functions or similar. (Boiler Combustion Controls, 3 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Houston, TX

$92K - $122K/yr

Controls and Automation System Expertise * Lead the design, development, and implementation of ... Oversee programming development, providing technical feedback and direction to vendors to ensure ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Houston, TX

$80K - $106K/yr

IC&E Engineering Manager Position Summary: This position is primarily responsible for the design ... Design, develop, and maintain automation systems and controls for power generation and gas ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

IC&E Engineering Manager Position Summary: This position is primarily responsible for the design ... Design, develop, and maintain automation systems and controls for power generation and gas ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX ยท On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience in controls, electrical, or automation engineering, preferably in the oil & gas industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX

$74K - $96K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience in controls, electrical, or automation engineering, preferably in the oil & gas industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to ...

New

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX

$68K - $88K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience in controls, electrical, or automation engineering, preferably in the oil & gas industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to ...

Controls Engineer - Power Generation

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Controls Engineer with experience in power generation and industrial automation systems to support engineering, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX ยท On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience in controls, electrical, or automation engineering, preferably in the oil & gas industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to ...

New

Controls Engineer - Power Generation

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Position Overview We are seeking a Controls Engineer with experience in power generation and industrial automation systems to support engineering, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting ...

Controls Engineer I

Rosenberg, TX ยท On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience in controls, electrical, or automation engineering, preferably in the oil & gas industry. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to ...

New

Controls Engineer III

Houston, TX ยท On-site +1

$79K - $103K/yr

The Role: Controls Engineer III As a Controls Engineer III, you lead deployment, programming ... Industry certifications related to HVAC controls or building automation systems. If you meet most ...

Showing results 41-60

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$43.9K

$93.7K

$134.1K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Houston, TX is $93,721.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $105,500.00 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 Houston, TX? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:
What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Houston, TX with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,721 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Controls and Automation Engineer

Keystone Engineering Inc.

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Keystone Engineering Inc. opened for business in 1988 and for decades, has been a reliable provider of qualified engineering resources and technically innovative solutions. Keystone was founded to be an enduring company, and to provide an environment for our employees and clients to innovate, thrive, and be successful.
Keystone's family of companies include: Milestone Project Services, SIS SILverstone, VeraPro, and Salmon & Associates
Our varied and extensive experience indicates that successful projects come down to personnel. We incorporate their individual skills in a process that's geared toward excellence. The intentional pairing of people and process is the reason why clients know that they can trust their projects in the hands of Keystone. Services Offered: 3D Laser Scanning, Controls & Automation, Construction Management, Design & Drafting, Engineering: Civil/Structural, Electrical, Mechanical, Process, Functional Safety, Information Technology, Instrumentation, On-Site Services, Operations & Commissioning Support, Procurement, Project Management.
Keystone Engineering is currently seeking an experienced Controls & Automation Engineer to join our team.
Position Type: Full-time
Location: Houston, TX
Work Environment/Physical Demands: Office/Sedentary
Travel Requirements: Occasional
Essential Functions:
  • Automation for Industrial Control Systems - Oil & Gas, Chemical, Pipeline, Compression.
  • Programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces).
  • Assist with development and design process to build effective, efficient, and safe control systems.
  • Willingness to provide project onsite support as needed for commissioning (SAT) and systems integration testing (FAT) in fabrication facilities.
  • Assist with testing, maintaining, and modifying existing systems.
  • Assist with troubleshooting hardware and processes.
  • Assist with problem detection and solution implementation.
  • Assist with project control documentation as required.
  • Effective reporting and communication of task statuses with project team members and project lead.
  • Prepare specifications detailing performance requirements, design data, applicable codes/standards, and vendor drawing requirements with direction from supervisor.

Requirements:
  • 5+ years of experience
  • Allen-Bradley or other PLC programming experience
  • FactoryTalk or Wonderware HMI programming experience
  • Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word)
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Self-motivated, organized, and solution advocate
  • Attention to detail
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. for any employer
  • Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19
  • Able to obtain a TWIC card

Experience Preferred:
  • B.S. in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program
  • Engineer Intern Licensure
  • Pursuing Professional Engineering license
  • Previous experience with: upstream (production) facilities, midstream facilities, pipelines
  • Previous experience in oil & gas industry

Equal Opportunity Employer, including disabled and veterans.