ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Automation Controls Programmer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Impulsespace

$160K - $185K/yr

Senior Automation & Controls Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach Compensation: $160,000 - $185,000 / year Description As a Senior ...

Impulsespace

$105K - $185K/yr

Automation and Controls Engineer Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location: Redondo Beach Reporting To: Kyle O'Rourke, Manager, Automation and Controls Compensation ...

Atlas Copco Holding GmbH

$61K - $81K/yr

The Controls Engineer - Automation Specialist will work closely with mechanical engineering, project management and production to deliver high-quality projects on‑time and within a given budget.

Conti Corporation

$61K - $81K/yr

Our Building Automation team delivers controls installation, programming, commissioning, and startup services for commercial and industrial facilities across Southeast Michigan and Northern Ohio.

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$61K - $81K/yr

AUTOMATION AND CONTROLS TECHNICIAN, INFRASTRUCTURE & UTILITY (STARSHIP) Join the Infrastructure Engineering team at SpaceX to pioneer the design, build, operation, and maintenance of critical power ...

Apex Systems

$61K - $79K/yr

Mid-Senior Position Overview We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the development, deployment, and optimization of advanced automation and material handling systems. This individual will be ...

Pinnaql, Inc.

$76K - $100K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Job Summary We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer to support an ... Coordinate engineering design, system integration, migration, controls modifications, and ...

Hargrove & Associates Inc.

$61K - $81K/yr

Generally responsible for performing all aspects for complete design of Controls & Automation ... Must be a strong technical programmer as well as be able to mentor younger engineers and ...

SPACE EXPLORATION TECHNOLOGIES CORP

$76K - $100K/yr

Sr. Automation & Controls Engineer, Infrastructure & Utility (Starship) SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than ...

SSAB Group

$61K - $79K/yr

Position Summary The Controls Engineer designs, supports, and maintains automation and control systems across the Primary End, including the EAF, LMF, Degasser, Caster, Baghouse, and Refractory areas.

Itape

$61K - $79K/yr

Engineering Manager Location : On-Site in our Blythewood, SC Facility Position Purpose: Serve as ... Lead controls improvements and automation projects to improve safety, reliability, uptime, and ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomation Controls Programmer JobsAutomation Controls Programmer Jobs in Kentucky

Automation Controls Programmer information

What is an automation controls programmer?

Automation Controls Programmers are professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems that automate machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities. They typically work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and various sensors and actuators to ensure systems run efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting, testing, and optimizing automated systems to improve productivity and reduce downtime. These specialists play a crucial role in modernizing production lines and ensuring operational excellence.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an automation controls programmer?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Programmer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, PLC programming, and control systems, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Proficiency with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networking protocols is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for addressing complex automation challenges and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing reliable automated systems that maximize productivity, efficiency, and safety in manufacturing or industrial environments.

What are common challenges faced by automation controls programmers during project implementation?

Automation Controls Programmers often encounter challenges such as integrating new control systems with legacy equipment, troubleshooting unexpected communication issues between devices, and managing tight project deadlines. They also need to ensure that safety standards are met while optimizing system efficiency. Strong collaboration with mechanical engineers, electricians, and project managers is crucial to address these challenges and deliver successful automation solutions.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Programmer vs PLC Programmer?

AspectAutomation Controls ProgrammerPLC Programmer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications in control systems are commonOften requires similar technical degrees or certifications in PLC programming and automation
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesManufacturing environments, automation projects, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, automation service providers, industrial plantsFactories, automation system integrators, industrial automation companies
Common Search & ComparisonAutomation Controls Programmer vs PLC Programmer

The main difference is that Automation Controls Programmers design and develop entire control systems, including hardware and software, while PLC Programmers focus specifically on programming PLCs used within those systems. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but Automation Controls Programmers typically have broader responsibilities in system integration and design.

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Automation Controls Programmer jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Automation Controls Programmer job openings:

Automation Controls Programmer jobs near you

Controls Engineer

Hopkinsville, KY • On-site

TG Automotive Sealing Kentucky LLC
See more jobs at TG Automotive Sealing Kentucky LLCexternal

$70K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Education

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechatronics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Robotics Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
  • 3-5 years of experience supporting industrial automation, controls engineering, or advanced manufacturing systems.

Technical Skills

  • Experience programming and troubleshooting PLC and HMI platforms including:
    • Omron
    • Allen-Bradley / Rockwell
    • Mitsubishi
    • Pro-face
  • Knowledge of:
    • Servo systems and motion control
    • Industrial networking and communication protocols
    • Robotics integration and automated equipment
    • Machine vision systems
  • Experience with machine vision and sensor technologies including:
    • Cognex
    • Keyence
    • SICK
    • Banner
    • Balluff
    • Turck
  • Ability to develop and troubleshoot:
    • PLC ladder logic
    • Structured Text
    • HMI applications
    • SQL databases and data collection systems
  • Experience with electrical system design, controls architecture, and industrial equipment integration.
  • Understanding of manufacturing automation, process controls, and smart factory technologies.
  • AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, or equivalent design software experience preferred.

Professional Skills

  • Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis abilities.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Ability to lead technical projects from concept through implementation.
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
  • Experience training and mentoring maintenance and production personnel.

Key Responsibilities

Automation & Controls Development

  • Design, develop, and implement automation and control solutions for manufacturing equipment and processes.
  • Program, modify, and optimize PLC, HMI, machine vision, and motion control systems.
  • Support the integration of robotics, sensors, and automated inspection technologies.

Equipment & System Improvement

  • Improve equipment reliability, productivity, quality, and safety through innovative automation solutions.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend implementation opportunities that support smart manufacturing initiatives.
  • Lead automation upgrades and retrofit projects.

New Equipment & Product Launch Support

  • Support design reviews, equipment installations, commissioning, and startup activities.
  • Collaborate with suppliers, contractors, and internal teams during equipment integration projects.
  • Lead controls and automation activities for new product introductions and equipment launches.

Troubleshooting & Continuous Improvement

  • Perform root cause analysis on equipment and process failures.
  • Develop long-term corrective actions that improve system performance and reduce downtime.
  • Support manufacturing and maintenance teams with advanced troubleshooting and technical guidance.

Project Leadership

  • Manage automation and controls projects from concept through completion.
  • Create and maintain electrical drawings, documentation, standards, and technical specifications.
  • Participate in critical design and process reviews.

Team Development

  • Train and mentor maintenance, engineering, and production personnel on automation technologies and equipment operation.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and technical excellence.

Why Join Us?

  • Work with advanced automation, machine vision, and smart manufacturing technologies.
  • Opportunity to influence future manufacturing systems and equipment design.
  • High-impact role driving productivity, quality, and innovation.
  • Collaborative environment where electrical, mechanical, software, and manufacturing disciplines work together to solve challenging engineering problems.