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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Barry Wehmiller Group

Controls Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$95K - $122K/yr

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

Paper Converting Machine

Controls Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$95K - $122K/yr

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

ControlsJobs

Controls Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$88 - $112/hr

A well-established mechanical and building automation contractor is seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to join their Seattle-based team. This full-time role supports automation projects across ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$52.3K

$111.7K

$159.9K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Seattle, WA is $111,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $125,800.00 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.

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Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,739 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Facilities Controls & Automation Engineer (Starlink)

United States Digital Space LLC

Redmond, WA • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

the company was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today the company is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal ofenabling human life on Mars.

FACILITIES CONTROL & AUTOMATION ENGINEER (STARLINK)

As a member of the Redmond Facilities critical infrastructure team, you will design, build, and activate some of the world’s most technically advanced manufacturing facilities. As an automation & controls engineer, you will develop and build a great variety of automated solutions to aid in rapid R&D, production and critical asset management. The automation & controls Engineer designs, builds, and commissions complete control systems from the ground up. We are looking for talent with an amazing track record in developing, troubleshooting, and maintaining control systems for production and critical infrastructure. This position is based in Redmond, Washington.

Responsibilities
  • Design, program, andmaintain Building Automation Systems (BAS) / Building Management Systems (BMS) using platforms such as Honeywell and Delta Controls.
  • Configure andoptimizesystem graphics, alarms, trends, schedules, and point databases within BAS/BMS platforms.
  • Develop andmodifycontrol sequences of operation for HVAC systems andother infrastructure systemsto improve performance and energy efficiency.
  • Install, integrate, and maintain IFM IO-Link sensors and devices to enable advanced telemetry, real-time monitoring, and automated alerting across facility systems.
  • Provide commissioning and startup support for newinfrastructure, including submittal and sequence of operations review, point-to-point verification, Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), Testing,Adjusting,Balancing (TAB), and operational handover.
  • Perform troubleshooting and root cause analysis on utility equipment and associated control systems.
  • Develop data analytics solutions, dashboards, and KPI reports by analyzing alarms, trends, and system performance data.
  • Collaborate with network and cybersecurity teams to design, implement, andmaintain secure BAS network architecture andfirewallconfigurations.
  • Design, develop, and manageIGNITION/SCADAsystems for critical facility utilities, including power distribution, compressed air, and other essential systems.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline
  • 1+ years of professional experience in the design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for industrial applications
Preferred Qualifications
  • 3+ years of professional experience in the design and commissioning of automation and controls systems for industrial applications
  • Strong hands-on experience withBuilding Automation Systems (BAS/BMS), specificallyHoneywell(Niagara Framework) andDelta Controls.
  • Proficiencyin developing andmodifyingcontrol sequences of operationfor HVAC and facility utility systems.
  • Experience withSCADA systemsfor monitoring and controlling critical utilities (power, compressed air, chilled water, etc.).
  • Experience withFieldbusnetworks, serialcommunicationand Ethernetcommunication.
  • PLC Programming Experience
  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such asBACnet, Modbus,LonWorks, OPC UA, and Ethernet/IP.
  • Experience installing, integrating, andmaintainingIO-Link sensors and devices, preferably withIFMsensors for telemetry and condition monitoring.
  • Strong working knowledgeofcommercial and industrialHVACsystemsincludingchillers, boilers, pumps, AHUs, CRAC units,and VFR systemsand their control strategies.
  • Experience withcommissioning, startup, and validationof building automation and utility systems (including point-to-point checkout, FAT, and TAB coordination).
  • Familiarity withnetwork architectureand cybersecurity best practices for BAS/OT environments.
  • Exposure to a wide variety of production machinery, ind
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