1

Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in St Louis, MO

Automation Controls Engineer

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

As an Automation Controls Engineer , you'll be responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting cutting-edge automation and control solutions in a manufacturing environment. You'll be at the ...

Automation Controls Engineer

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

As an Automation Controls Engineer , you'll be responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting cutting-edge automation and control solutions in a manufacturing environment. You'll be at the ...

Controls Engineer

Saint Louis, MO

$81K - $105K/yr

Develop automation solutions by designing control systems, creating project documentation and ... A minimum of three years of direct experience as a controls engineer working on automated processes ...

Controls Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Develop automation solutions by designing control systems, creating project documentation and ... A minimum of three years of direct experience as a controls engineer working on automated processes ...

Controls Engineer

Saint Louis, MO

$81K - $105K/yr

Develop automation solutions by designing control systems, creating project documentation and ... A minimum of three years of direct experience as a controls engineer working on automated processes ...

Controls Engineer

Fenton, MO · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Controls EngineerPosition Summary The Controls Engineer designs, programs, and supports industrial ... This role is responsible for developing automation solutions, troubleshooting control systems, and ...

Controls Engineer

Maplewood, MO · Remote

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls Design Engineer Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Controls Design Engineer ... Design, assemble, and test electrical control panels and wiring for machines and automation systems ...

Controls Engineer

Maplewood, MO · Remote

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls Design Engineer Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Controls Design Engineer ... Design, assemble, and test electrical control panels and wiring for machines and automation systems ...

Be Seen First

Controls Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Controls Engineer -- Resident Site (Rockwell PLC / Industrial Networks) Employer: INS3 LLC Primary ... Automation PLC systems and the industrial networks that connect them across treatment and ...

Controls Engineer

Maplewood, MO · Remote

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls Design Engineer Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Controls Design Engineer ... Design, assemble, and test electrical control panels and wiring for machines and automation systems ...

Controls Engineer

Maplewood, MO · Remote

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls Design Engineer Position Summary: We are seeking an experienced Controls Design Engineer ... Design, assemble, and test electrical control panels and wiring for machines and automation systems ...

HVAC Controls Application Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A Day in a Life at Johnson Controls | Engineering Roles What you do The Controls Systems Engineer ... Develops complex hardware deliverables, software programs of HVAC Building Automation Controls ...

New

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Saint Louis, MO

$77K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Design and support SCADA, substation automation, and power system communication architectures

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automation Controls Engineer information

See St Louis, MO salary details

$44.7K

$95.5K

$136.6K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in St. Louis, MO is $95,459.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,200.00 and $107,400.00 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 St. Louis, MO?

For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in St. Louis, MO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in St. Louis, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in St. Louis, MO are:

What cities near St. Louis, MO are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near St. Louis, MO with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in St. Louis, MO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,459 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

St. Louis - Automation Controls Engineer

NCW

Saint Louis, MO

$81K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Senior Automation Controls Engineer
The position of Senior Automation Controls Engineer II will be a part of the Automation Team and will be responsible for being a leading Senior resource for automation projects.
OBJECTIVES YOU WILL MEET
As the Senior Automation Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for providing technical services alongside a highly technical team. Objectives include:
  • Expertise programming and configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and human-machine interface (HMI) systems to control and monitor industrial processes.
    • Strong working knowledge of Allen-Bradley platforms (RSLogix5, RSLogix500, Studio5000, FactoryTalk View ME) and Aveva (Wonderware) InTouch is preferred.
  • Understanding of industrial controls networks.
  • Ability to read existing programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and generate a Controls Narrative.
  • Break down project scope into manageable tasks and effectively delegate work across the team.
  • Design, implement, and support automation solutions to improve performance and reliability.
  • Interpret P&IDs and convert to functional control logic based on process narratives.
  • Lead programming, testing, and commissioning activities for projects of varying complexity.
  • Develop and maintain PLC/HMI standards, objects, and reusable components.
  • Provide technical support during commissioning and post-project phases.
  • Perform delegated programming tasks according to process narrative and/or client specifications.
  • Lead internal and external acceptance testing processes with ownership of project deliverables.
HOW YOU’LL MEET THOSE OBJECTIVES
  • Represent us as a technical and project management resource for clients to communicate project status, answer questions, and coordinate work.
  • Continuously improve programming skills by staying updated with the latest advancements in PLC, HMI, and data collection technology.
  • Effectively communicate programming vision and provide tools to other team members to ensure accurate, timely completion of project deliverables.
  • Communicate at all technical levels and coordinate directly with subcontractors, contractors, and clients as project work requires.
  • Create a structured approach to troubleshooting including diagnosing issues, analyzing root causes, and implementing effective resolutions.
  • Obtain a deeper understanding of various automation components, protocols, and systems used in the industry.
  • Strong collaboration and mentoring capabilities with Senior, Level II, and Level I resources.
  • Be motivated and self-directed in the completion of project tasks.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Travel to client sites and perform physical duties to implement, test, and commission automation systems.
Travel Required:
Accommodate up to 25% of overnight travel for services at out-of-town client facilities. The amount of travel is largely dependent upon project scope, schedule, and assigned tasks.

NCW logo

About NCW

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 2000 with a mission to do things differently, NCW is a team of staffing and professional recruitment specialists that deliver innovative solutions to hiring challenges. Here, our focus is on the people behind every role. We form long-standing partnerships with our clients and with the top talent in the market. We go beyond job requirements and resumes to learn the “whys” and the motivations of the companies and talent we serve. Committed to service excellence, our professional recruiters and temporary staffing specialists deliver an unmatched experience and unsurpassed results with every search. Matching the right person to the role requires an exceptional understanding of the market. The recruiters of NCW bring decades of staffing and recruiting expertise to the table. We understand the challenges employers face, and we know what talented people want from their next opportunities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

Year founded

2000

Social media