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Automation Controls Programmer Jobs in Gaffney, SC

Industrial Technician

Spartanburg, SC · On-site

$36K - $42K/yr

Serve as the technical resource for controls and automation throughout the plant. * Mentor and ... PLC Programming * Allen-Bradley ControlLogix * Allen-Bradley CompactLogix * RSLogix / Studio 5000

Senior Control Engineer

Jonesville, SC · On-site

$86K - $126K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer will be responsible for supporting plant leadership in achieving business and financial goals by developing and maintaining manufacturing automation and test systems.

Senior Control Engineer

Jonesville, SC · On-site

$86K - $126K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer will be responsible for supporting plant leadership in achieving business and financial goals by developing and maintaining manufacturing automation and test systems.

The Senior Controls Engineer will be responsible for supporting plant leadership in achieving business and financial goals by developing and maintaining manufacturing automation and test systems.

Senior Control Engineer

Jonesville, SC · On-site

$86K - $126K/yr

What you'll do The Senior Controls Engineer will be responsible for supporting plant leadership in achieving business and financial goals by developing and maintaining manufacturing automation and ...

Machine Safety Engineer - Senior

York, SC · On-site

$96K - $133K/yr

Controls & Systems Knowledge: Success requires hands-on understanding of electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and automation control systems, plus the ability to read or reverse-engineer detailed ...

Showing results 41-60

Automation Controls Programmer information

See Gaffney, SC salary details

$37.5K

$74.7K

$103.7K

How much do automation controls programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls programmer in Gaffney, SC is $74,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,900.00 and $85,600.00 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 Gaffney, SC are hiring for Automation Controls Programmer jobs?

Cities near Gaffney, SC with the most Automation Controls Programmer job openings:

Industrial Technician

Spartanburg, SC • On-site

Crown Holdings, Inc.
Finance and Insurance • 10K+ employees

$36K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

About Crown
Crown Holdings, Inc. through it's subsidiaries, is a world leader in the metal packaging production process. We design and manufacture a wide range of innovative and sustainable metal packaging solutions and products. Our clients are some of the largest and most respected companies in the world.
Crown is dedicated to building a team of highly talented, dedicated, and driven individuals. It's an exciting time to join our business because Crown offers you the opportunity to grow and develop your skills in an expanding industry.
Crown was founded with the goal of valuing and promoting sustainability and this vision continues to be essential to our long-term future.
Job Description:
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design, program, troubleshoot, modify, and maintain PLC, HMI, servo, and motion control systems.
  • Develop and maintain PLC and HMI programs for new equipment installations, upgrades, and process improvements.
  • Design, build, modify, and upgrade industrial control panels in accordance with NEC and applicable electrical standards.
  • Configure, troubleshoot, and maintain industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Profibus, serial communications, and other industrial protocols.
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software associated with PLCs, operator interfaces, servo controllers, VFDs, remote I/O, and safety systems.
  • Diagnose complex automation and interface issues to significantly reduce production downtime and improve equipment reliability.
  • Support automation upgrades, modernization projects, and capital improvement initiatives.
  • Develop backup procedures for PLC and HMI programs and maintain current software revisions.
  • Interpret electrical schematics, ladder logic, P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and mechanical drawings.
  • Troubleshoot and repair automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on production equipment.
  • Assist maintenance personnel in diagnosing complex mechanical/electrical interface problems.
  • Ensure production equipment is fully operational before releasing equipment back to production.
  • Perform equipment modifications and machine improvements that increase reliability and efficiency.
  • Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, safety, quality, and uptime.
  • Lead root cause failure analysis for recurring equipment failures.
  • Recommend and implement automation improvements to reduce downtime and maintenance costs.
  • Support Lean Manufacturing and Continuous Improvement initiatives.
  • Participate in equipment installations, commissioning, and startup activities.
  • Complete maintenance work orders accurately using the Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS).
  • Generate shift reports, troubleshooting documentation, project summaries, and maintenance records.
  • Maintain accurate documentation for PLC programs and control panel modifications.
  • Serve as the technical resource for controls and automation throughout the plant.
  • Mentor and train maintenance technicians in PLC troubleshooting, electrical diagnostics, automation systems, and best maintenance practices.
  • Provide operational training and technical support to production personnel.
  • Communicate effectively with cross-functional teams including external vendors.

Safety & Compliance
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA, FDA, GMP, food safety, and company safety policies.
  • Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), electrical safety, and confined space procedures.
  • Maintain clean and organized work areas.
  • Ensure all repairs meet applicable electrical codes and manufacturing standards.
  • Maintain tools and test equipment in safe operating condition.

Additional Responsibilities
  • Support spare parts inventory management by identifying critical components and recommending stocking levels.
  • Execute special projects as assigned.
  • Utilize maintenance management software effectively.
  • Perform non-technical assignments as requested.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Minimum six (6) years of industrial maintenance experience with significant experience in industrial automation and controls, or an equivalent combination of advanced technical education and experience.
  • Strong understanding of industrial electrical systems, automation, controls, instrumentation, and mechanical systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork abilities.

PLC Programming
  • Allen-Bradley ControlLogix
  • Allen-Bradley CompactLogix
  • RSLogix / Studio 5000
  • PLC-5 and SLC 500 platforms

HMI FactoryTalk View ME
  • Allen-Bradley PanelView
  • Connected Components Workbench

Motion & Servo Systems
  • Kinetix Servo Systems
  • Allen-Bradley Servo Controllers
  • Indramat Servo Controllers
  • Motion Control Troubleshooting

Variable Frequency Drives
  • Allen-Bradley PowerFlex
  • VFD programming and troubleshooting

Industrial Networks
  • Ethernet/IP
  • DeviceNet
  • ControlNet
  • Profibus
  • Serial Communications
  • Industrial Ethernet
  • Power Distribution
  • Motor Controls
  • Electrical Panels

Computer Skills
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • CMMS Software

Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree or higher in Industrial Automation, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Electronics, or related technical field.
  • OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 Certification.
  • NFPA 70E Electrical Safety Training.
  • Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation certifications.
  • Manufacturing automation experience.

Work Environment
This position operates in a 142,000-square-foot plant. The environment includes automated production equipment, industrial electrical systems, conveyors, four high-speed can making manufacturing lines.
Work requires standing, walking, climbing, lifting up to 50 pounds, working at heights, exposure to varying temperatures, and working around moving machinery while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).
Performance Expectations
Success in this position will be measured by:
  • Maximizing equipment reliability and production uptime.
  • Reducing troubleshooting time and minimizing production downtime.
  • Providing advanced controls expertise that supports maintenance and production teams.
  • Completing preventive maintenance and project work on schedule.
  • Improving equipment performance through automation and process enhancements.
  • Maintaining accurate documentation and control system backups.
  • Ensuring compliance with all safety and regulatory requirements.
  • Demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, technical leadership, and continuous improvement.

What Crown Offers You
  • Strong engagement and commitment to the safety of our employees
  • The opportunity to build a meaningful career
  • Professional and personal development through training and work experiences

Join us and become part of a team of professionals who are passionate about sustainable packaging!
Working Together Working Together is one of the five pillars that make up our Twentyby30™ program. We aim to value and respect each individual and foster an environment of inclusivity.