1

Automation Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automation Controls Engineer

Lancaster, SC ยท On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

The Automation and Controls Engineer reports to the Manager of Manufacturing Engineering and is responsible for developing new automation concepts as well as maintaining existing automated ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Richardson, TX ยท On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS ENGINEER The Job Our office in Richardson, TX is looking for an Automation & Controls Engineer who will collaborate with a broader team of engineering professionals to provide ...

The Automation and Controls Engineer will execute automation and controls engineering design activities for minor to major scale Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects. The ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Chaska, MN ยท On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Automation & Controls Engineer The Role: Our Chaska site is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Automation & Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Chaska, MN ยท On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Automation & Controls Engineer The Role: Our Chaska site is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Automation & Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of manufacturing ...

Senior Automation & Controls Engineer

Atlanta, GA ยท On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

The Senior Automation & Controls Engineer will lead and execute Automation and Controls Engineering design activities for minor to major scale Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC ...

Automation Controls Engineer

Frederick, CO ยท On-site

$103K - $161K/yr

Join a growing team with this exciting opportunity for an Automation Controls Engineer at our Frederick, Colorado GMP facility. Work in our dynamic, fast-paced, API-Biopharma manufacturing ...

senior Automation controls Engineer

Dallas, TX ยท On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Senior Automation Controls Engineer / PLC SME Location: Dallas, TX We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Automation Controls Engineer / Subject Matter Expert (SME) with strong expertise in Allen ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automation Controls Engineer information

See salary details

$46K

$98.2K

$140.5K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in the United States is $98,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Automation Controls Engineers?

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 cities are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs? The top employers for Automation Controls Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Automation Controls Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Automation Controls Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,186 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Automation Controls Engineer

Automation Controls Engineer

MLS Technologies

Lancaster, SC โ€ข On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Contractor

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

The Automation and Controls Engineer reports to the Manager of Manufacturing Engineering and is responsible for developing new automation concepts as well as maintaining existing automated manufacturing systems. The Automation and Controls Engineer will identify opportunities to optimize safety and quality while maximizing the efficiency of automated manufacturing systems. The position will support Production, Maintenance, and Process Teams in troubleshooting of equipment across multiple facilities. Duties also include to program, upgrade and troubleshoot PLC's, Human Machine Interfaces, vision, and data acquisition systems on new and existing production equipment and provide technical training and support to maintenance, manufacturing, and engineering personnel in the operation and maintenance of automated equipment.
Duties:
* Responsible to automate all applicable manufacturing process with ROI justification
* Identify, develop and lead projects that will result in automated operations in Manufacturing and Packaging operations.
* Identify, select and manage purchasing of components to build automated systems as well as the vendors who install and support such systems.
* Troubleshoot and eliminate control systems issues and handle controls projects.
* Develop and document new PLC control systems from concept to qualification.
* Troubleshoot control systems wiring and PLC / SCADA logic.
* Maintain configuration control of current PLC source code.
* Select, test, and integrate hardware and software components such as robots, analog devices, motion controllers, sensors, vision systems and lasers.
* Troubleshoot problems with on-line vision inspection systems utilizing Cognex InSight software and other vision software tools.
* Implement quality improvement projects through error proofing, interlocks, and vision system (Cognex Vision) integration.
* Lay out new industrial electrical control panels which are NFPA79/NEC/UL508A/CE compliant and create electrical and pneumatic schematics.
* Manage electrical cabinet builds, field wiring, and pneumatic plumbing.
* Arranges for and manages appropriate third-party contractor support for services associated with the electrical operations of production equipment and facilities.
* Understand process control issues and develop control solutions to enhance process with Process/Manufacturing Engineers.
* Works with members of the engineering department and other groups to continuously improve methods of integrating controls technology, with goals being enhanced safety, enhanced functionality, and reduced cost.
* Offer controls engineering support to plant operations and maintenance department.
* Regular attendance is required.
* Communicate effectively with other departments within the organization and function within a team environment.
* Perform other duties as may be required in meeting company objectives.
Job Requirements
Minimum Security Clearance:
Bondable
Minimum Requirements:
Robotics and Automation Engineering experience is essential. Strong electrical troubleshooting and PLC programming and troubleshooting is required. Supervisory experience is preferred. Strong mechanical aptitude, and a working knowledge of electrical, and mechanical systems required. Excellent trouble shooting and diagnostic skills, with the ability to define problems and resolve them quickly a must. Good interpersonal skills required along with the ability to interact with all staff levels.
Education and Experience:
* Bachelor's degree in Engineering, preferably Electrical, Chemical or Mechanical.
* Minimum of 2-4 years' experience as an Automation/Controls Engineer in a regulated industry.
* Experience in a cGMP facility is preferred.
* Strong problem solving and applied statistics skills are required.
* Technical expertise & application experience in manufacturing-based applications. Experienced in root cause analysis techniques and failure mode and effect analysis.
* Certification in Lean manufacturing is preferred.
* Six Sigma certification - green/black belt is preferred.
* Experience in CAD / SPC / Gantt Charts
* ERP experience is a plus, preferably design, testing, and implementation related to manufacturing processes
* Self-motivated worker with the ability to identify priorities and work independently.