1

Automation Controls Programmer Jobs in Holbrook, MA

Mechanical & Controls Engineer

Billerica, MA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

This role combines mechanical engineering, automation, controls, and process equipment integration to improve coating capabilities, process monitoring, and operational efficiency. The engineer will ...

Mechanical & Controls Engineer

Billerica, MA · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

This role combines mechanical engineering, automation, controls, and process equipment integration to improve coating capabilities, process monitoring, and operational efficiency. The engineer will ...

SCADA Controls Automation Engineer

Canton, MA · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

Woodard & Curran is seeking a dynamic, client-focused SCADA Automation & Controls Engineer to join our Team, supporting projects across the New England Region , including Massachusetts, Rhode Island ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Automation Controls Programmer information

See Holbrook, MA salary details

$41.3K

$82.3K

$114.2K

How much do automation controls programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls programmer in Holbrook, MA is $82,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,300.00 and $94,300.00 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 Holbrook, MA are hiring for Automation Controls Programmer jobs?

Cities near Holbrook, MA with the most Automation Controls Programmer job openings:

Automation & Controls Engineer

Waltham, MA • On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

AT Process Technologies (ATP) is a pioneering manufacturing company focused on the development and deployment of modular energetics production plants. Using breakthrough chemistry and automation that operates continuously and generates little to no waste, ATP is expanding energetics production to meet the munitions demands of the US and Allies safely, rapidly, and cost effectively.

Summary

ATP is building a core team of engineers to develop the autonomous skidded production systems that will redefine how energetics are manufactured. You will work alongside our chemistry, process, and mechanical teams to take a chemical process from a benchtop reaction to a fully automated, fail-safe production module. The ideal candidate has previously owned a control system end-to-end on real industrial hardware and brings the discipline to engineer for safety in a hazardous-chemistry environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, implement, and maintain control systems, data acquisition, and SCADA architectures for ATP's modular energetics production plants
  • Design and program Siemens PLC control systems for chemical reactors, fluid handling, thermal management, and material transfer
  • Develop and deploy real-time control software for process startup, steady-state operation, upset response, and safe shutdown sequencing
  • Implement safety PLCs, fail-safe I/O, ProfiSafe devices, and safety-rated motion control in alignment with ISO 13849, IEC 61508, and ISO 10218
  • Design industrial control panels for 480 VAC / 24 VDC systems, including wiring architectures, panel layouts, and field termination
  • Integrate sensors and instrumentation for pressure, temperature, flow, level, concentration, and other process variables
  • Configure and integrate vision systems, robotics, servos, VFDs, sensors, actuators, and communication devices
  • Develop UDTs, HMI faceplates, and operator interfaces that support both lights-out operation and clear human oversight
  • Collaborate with mechanical, process, and chemistry engineers to translate process requirements into control logic, safety limits, and operating envelopes
  • Lead hands-on commissioning, hardware-in-the-loop testing, and factory and site acceptance testing
  • Troubleshoot hardware and software issues across controls, instrumentation, valves, and actuators during commissioning and production runs
  • Contribute to root cause analysis and corrective actions for process and equipment anomalies

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Robotics Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline
  • 5+ years of professional experience in industrial controls, automation, or process system development
  • High proficiency with Siemens TIA Portal and Ignition SCADA
  • Experience with safety-rated motion control and machine safeguarding
  • Experience with revision control tools (GitHub, Siemens Project Server, or equivalent)
  • Demonstrated experience owning a controls system end-to-end from architecture through commissioning on real industrial hardware
  • Ability to work hands on in laboratory, fabrication, and plant environments
  • Strong problem-solving and debugging skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • 5-10 years of relevant industry experience
  • Experience designing and commissioning controls for continuous chemical processes, batch processes, or other hazardous-chemistry environments
  • Experience integrating multi-vendor control systems or retrofitting brownfield equipment
  • Programming proficiency in Python, C/C++, or MATLAB for analysis, scripting, and integration
  • Experience in defense, aerospace, energetics, or other regulated manufacturing environments

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to lift 50 lbs
  • U.S. Person and ability to obtain a security clearance
  • Ability to work on-site and travel as needed

ITAR Requirements

This position requires access to information and technology protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To conform to these regulations, applicants must be a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 CFR § 120.62, which includes (i) U.S. citizens or nationals, (ii) U.S. lawful permanent residents (green card holders), (iii) refugees under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) asylees under 8 U.S.C. § 1158.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AT Process Technologies is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status

Reasonable Accommodation

If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact careers@atp.us.

E-Verify

AT Process Technologies participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility for all newly hired employees.

#J-18808-Ljbffr