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Automation Controls Programmer Jobs in Athens, GA

RWDC Industries

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Automation Controls Engineer

Athens, GA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

As an Automation and Controls Engineer at RWDC Industries, will require you to lead the design, development and engineering of new Automation & Controls Systems technical expertise involved in the ...

Urgent

W3Global Inc.

Controls & Automation Engineer

Braselton, GA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Controls & Automation Engineer We are seeking a skilled and motivated Controls & Automation Engineer to join our team in Braselton, Georgia. This position will play a key role in the development ...

Carter's

Automation and Controls Tech 3rd shift

Braselton, GA · On-site

$76K - $100K/yr

The Automation and Controls Technician supports the operational performance of automated material ... This position works closely with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to ensure systems ...

Benchmark Automation LLC

Controls Engineer

Statham, GA · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Benchmark Automation is seeking an Electrical/Controls Engineer to design the electrical controls for packaging machinery and material handling equipment. This includes Bills of Materials ...

Promachbuilt

Controls Engineer

Statham, GA

$78K - $101K/yr

Benchmark Automation is seeking an Electrical/Controls Engineer to design the electrical controls for packaging machinery and material handling equipment. This includes Bills of Materials ...

Pro Mach, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Statham, GA · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Benchmark Automation is seeking an Electrical/Controls Engineer to design the electrical controls for packaging machinery and material handling equipment. This includes Bills of Materials ...

Carter

Automations and Controls Tech 4th

Braselton, GA · On-site

$27.50 - $36/hr

The Automation and Controls Technician supports the operational performance of automated material ... This position works closely with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to ensure systems ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Programmer JobsAutomation Controls Programmer Jobs in Athens, GA

Automation Controls Programmer information

See Athens, GA salary details

$39.1K

$77.9K

$108.1K

How much do automation controls programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls programmer in Athens, GA is $77,888.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 near Athens, GA are hiring for Automation Controls Programmer jobs?

Cities near Athens, GA with the most Automation Controls Programmer job openings:

Automation Controls Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Programmer job openings in Athens, GA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,888 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Automation Controls Engineer

Athens, GA • On-site

RWDC Industries
Clean Energy Semiconductors Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about RWDC Industriesexternal

Urgent

$110K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

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Job description

As an Automation and Controls Engineer at RWDC Industries, will require you to lead the design, development and engineering of new Automation & Controls Systems technical expertise involved in the production of our biodegradable material (PHA). Your responsibilities will include providing the engineering leadership to design system requirements analysis, hardware design/specification, programming, integration, verification, and commissioning of controls systems for a new plant operation. The successful candidate will have substantial automation and controls experience, knowledge of industry standards and current technologies, outstanding communication skills and the ability to meet deliver project requirements. As a technology-driven company we are looking for a leader who wants to challenge themselves to reach their full potential in an exciting and fast-paced environment.

Duties and responsibilities for an RWDC Automation and Controls Engineer include:

  • Design and develop programs, troubleshoots, and evaluates automation and control systems on all process equipment using Best In Class Automation/Controls vendor products
  • Design solutions that meet the process and control requirements while monitoring budget constraints and timeline obligations to maximize production quality and efficiency.
  • Lead and develop controls project cost, quality, scope, and schedule to ensure on time delivery of projects within internal budgets. Prepares any necessary progress reports
  • Leads in engineering design reviews as required and requested by Leadership
  • Leads R & D activities concerned with integration and testing of electronic/mechanical components and systems and in development of applications.
  • Programs software to configure and/or make modifications to automated and process control systems
  • Maintain excellent quality and safety standards in all work performed
  • Performs other duties as assigned

General Skills/Job Requirements

  • BSEE, BSCS or other engineering degree or related discipline
  • 10+ years of experience in industrial automation and controls
  • Design/drafting tools AutoCAD, Plant 3D and SolidWorks
  • Extensive experience with Programable Logic Controllers (PLC) (Allen Bradley, Beckoff and Siemens)
  • Experience with configuring and designing HMI systems
  • Extremely knowledgeable of Industry Standards ISO, ISA, UL and CE
  • Expert with various motion controllers/actuators
  • Proven leadership and skill in design, development and troubleshooting control and automation system issues
  • Experience with process industry, injection molding, extrusion, and pelletizing systems desired
  • Experience with Multiple vendor solutions including Rockwell Automation, Allen Bradley, etc systems desired
  • Experience with a variety of SCADA systems
  • Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and device data sheets.
  • Organized, detail oriented and able to think designs through completely
  • Ability to use testing and metering devices.
  • SQL experience valuable in using data
  • Experience with Ethernet Network and OTC Network beneficial
  • Skilled in technical writing including to develop standard operating procedures (SOP’s) Test Plans, Operating Manuals etc.
  • Strong MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) experience and general computer literacy required
  • Excellent analytical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills
  • Has the ability to multi-task, work efficiently and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.

Come work with a company dedicated to making the world a better place through the creation of biodegradable plastic! We are a rapidly growing biotechnology company currently expanding research, development and production facilities in Athens, Georgia. We manufacture bio-based polymers with a goal of replacing (yes, replacing) single-use petroleum-based plastics. Our biopolymers are bio-based and made from renewable resources that are biodegradable and compostable.

Company Description

We are a growing biotechnology company in Athens, Georgia. We manufacture bio-based polymers with a goal of replacing single-use petroleum-based plastics. Our biopolymers are bio-based and made from renewable resources that are biodegradable and compostable.