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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Tempe, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with automation, PLCs, control network ... in controls engineering, with at least 5 years in mission-critical environments (data centers ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$96K - $126K/yr

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with automation, PLCs, control network ... in controls engineering, with at least 5 years in mission-critical environments (data centers ...

Controls Engineer

Goodyear, AZ

$81K - $105K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or ...

Controls Engineer

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or ...

Controls Engineer

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or ...

Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $107K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Design automation control systems; develop project specifications, documentation, and drawings for ... As a Sr. Controls Engineer, you will build a meaningful and fulfilling career with the support of ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$96K - $127K/yr

Design automation control systems; develop project specifications, documentation, and drawings for ... As a Sr. Controls Engineer, you will build a meaningful and fulfilling career with the support of ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Design automation control systems; develop project specifications, documentation, and drawings for ... As a Sr. Controls Engineer, you will build a meaningful and fulfilling career with the support of ...

This role is responsible for designing equipment and factory automation solutions across a wide ... Minimum 5 years of experience in electrical or controls engineering. * Proficiency with AutoCAD for ...

Showing results 41-60

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$44.8K

$95.6K

$136.7K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Tempe, AZ is $95,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,300.00 and $107,500.00 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 Tempe, AZ? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ are:
What cities near Tempe, AZ are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Tempe, AZ with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Tempe, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,551 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Clayco

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Clayco rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Us
Clayco is a full-service, turnkey real estate development, master planning, architecture, engineering, and construction firm that safely delivers clients across North America the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $7.6 billion in revenue for 2024, Clayco specializes in the "art and science of building," providing fast track, efficient solutions for industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential related building projects
About LJC
LJC Design & Engineering is a full-service architecture, engineering, and design firm committed to enhancing the quality of the human experience through integrated design. We are a team of high-energy professionals who share a passion for design, a collaborative approach, and a casual culture. We solve challenges by leveraging the collective expertise and ingenuity of the best and brightest minds across development, design, and construction.
The Role We Want You For
We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control Systems (ICS), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for mission-critical projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience with automation, PLCs, control network architecture, and system integration in high-reliability environments such as data centers, pharmaceutical plants, and industrial facilities.
The Specifics of the Role
  • Design, program, and commission automation and control systems for mission-critical projects.
  • Develop PLC, HMI, and SCADA architectures to support complex facility operations.
  • Integrate Building Management Systems (BMS), Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS), and Industrial Control Systems (ICS) into mission-critical environments.
  • Perform network architecture design for control systems, including cybersecurity best practices.
  • Work closely with electrical, mechanical, and IT teams to ensure seamless system integration.
  • Conduct system testing, validation, and troubleshooting during commissioning and operational phases.
  • Manage vendor and subcontractor relationships to ensure control systems meet performance specifications.
  • Stay current with emerging technologies in automation, IoT, and AI-driven control systems to enhance operational efficiency and resilience.
  • Provide mentorship to junior engineers and contribute to knowledge-sharing within the team.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10+ years of experience in controls engineering, with at least 5 years in mission-critical environments (data centers, pharma, advanced manufacturing, etc.).
  • Expertise in PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider, etc.), SCADA/HMI development (Ignition, Wonderware, Rockwell FactoryTalk, etc.), and network communication protocols (Modbus, BACnet, OPC, etc.).
  • Strong knowledge of power monitoring systems (EPMS), industrial automation, and cybersecurity best practices for control systems.
  • Experience with programming and configuring automation platforms for real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance.
  • Familiarity with NFPA, ISA, NIST, and industry standards related to automation and control in mission-critical environments.
  • Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills.
  • Willingness to travel to project sites as needed for commissioning and system validation.

Some Things You Should Know
  • No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does.
  • We work on creative, complex, award-winning, high-profile jobs.
  • The pace is fast!

Why Clayco?
  • 2025 Best Places to Work - St. Louis Business Journal, Los Angeles Business Journal, and Phoenix Business Journal.
  • 2025 ENR Midwest - Midwest Contractor (#1).
  • 2025 ENR Top 100 Design-Build Firms - Design-Build Contractor (Top 5).
  • 2025 ENR Top 100 Green Contractors - Green Contractor (Top 3).
  • 2025 ENR Top 25 Data Center Builders - Data Center Contractor (Top 3).

Benefits
  • Discretionary Annual Bonus: Subject to company and individual performance.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package Including: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401k, generous PTO and paid company holidays, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability coverage, learning & development programs and more!

Compensation
  • The salary range for this position considers a wide range of factors in making compensation decisions including but not limited to: Education, qualifications, skills, training, experience, certifications, internal equity, and location. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.

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