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Automation Controls Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Automation & Controls Specialist

Redmond, WA

$42 - $51/hr

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST (STARLINK) As a member of the Starlink Automation & Controls team, you will play a key role in owning the build and activation of custom machines critical to the ...

SpaceX

Automation & Controls Specialist

Redmond, WA · On-site

$42 - $51/hr

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST (STARLINK) As a member of the Starlink Automation & Controls team, you will play a key role in owning the build and activation of custom machines critical to the ...

Impulse Space

Automation & Controls Specialist

Mojave, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Automation & Controls Specialist Department: Assembly, Integration & Test Employment Type: Full Time Location: Mojave Compensation: $100,000 - $150,000 / year Description The Propulsion Test Team at ...

Aerotek

Automation Controls Specialist

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$71K - $94K/yr

Controls Specialist The Controls Specialist programs, troubleshoots, and optimizes Siemens PLCs and HMIs to ensure reliable operation of complex automation equipment. This role builds, upgrades, and ...

Impulse Space

Automation & Controls Specialist

Mojave, CA

$100K - $133K/yr

As a Automation & Controls Specialist at Impulse, you will be responsible for the installation and troubleshooting of test equipment related to rocket propulsion testing. This includes electrical ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Specialist Jobs

Automation Controls Specialist information

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$22.5K

$76.5K

$110.5K

How much do automation controls specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls specialist in the United States is $76,465.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Controls Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Specialist, you need expertise in electrical engineering, PLC programming, and industrial automation, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with control systems such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, SCADA interfaces, and relevant safety standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding specialists apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system performance, safe operations, and successful collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in industrial environments.

What is an Automation Controls Specialist?

An Automation Controls Specialist is a professional who designs, programs, installs, and maintains control systems used to automate industrial processes. They work with technologies such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and various sensors and actuators to ensure machinery and processes operate efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting system issues, optimizing processes, and integrating new equipment into existing systems. Automation Controls Specialists are essential in industries like manufacturing, energy, and logistics, where automation increases productivity and reduces human error.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Specialist vs Controls Engineer?

AspectAutomation Controls SpecialistControls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires technical certifications or associate degrees in automation or electrical technologyOften requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation service providersDesign firms, manufacturing, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, automation service companies, industrial plantsEngineering firms, manufacturing companies, consulting firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, required skills, and career paths in automationDesigning, developing, and implementing control systems

Automation Controls Specialists focus on installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting automation systems, often with technical certifications. Controls Engineers typically have a degree in engineering and are involved in designing and developing control systems. Both roles work in industrial environments but differ in scope and educational requirements.

How does an Automation Controls Specialist typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Automation Controls Specialists often work closely with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to ensure seamless integration of automation solutions. They participate in project planning meetings, clarify control system requirements, and coordinate on installation and troubleshooting. Effective communication is essential, as they translate technical specifications into actionable tasks for electricians or technicians and provide ongoing support to operators. This collaborative approach helps ensure that automation systems meet performance goals while aligning with broader organizational objectives.
More about Automation Controls Specialist jobs
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Specialist jobs are:
Automation Controls Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,465 per year, or $36.8 per hour.
Automation & Controls Specialist

Automation & Controls Specialist

SpaceX

Redmond, WA

$42 - $51/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 144 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST (STARLINK)

As a member of the Starlink Automation & Controls team, you will play a key role in owning the build and activation of custom machines critical to the production of the Starlink Satellite Constellation. Additionally, you will troubleshoot and repair existing assets and work to improve the long-term reliability of systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Support the building and activation of new automation projects, including mechanical assembly, wiring, pneumatics routing, I/O checkouts, and production qualification
  • Update/modify electrical, pneumatic, and fluid schematics
  • Troubleshoot and remedy problems with mechanical/electrical/pneumatic systems, HMI's, and PLC's Layout, build, as well as troubleshoot new industrial electrical control panels
  • Troubleshoot PLC and HMI software applications
  • Improve on existing production and R&D robot application programming
  • Support production use of deployed assets, promptly resolving issues on the production floor
  • Maximize equipment uptime and reliability

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school degree or equivalency certificate
  • 3+ years of experience supporting the design and manufacture of assembly machinery or high-volume products (consumer electronics, toys, medical devices, food & beverage, etc.)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

  • Associate or bachelor's degree
  • Occupational trade school qualification in an electrical based field
  • Strong, working knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79 & UL508A codes
  • PLC & HMI programming experience
  • Industrial machine networking experience
  • Electrical schematic drawing experience
  • Demonstrable hands-on skill in fault finding, problem resolution
  • Strong communication skills both written and oral
  • Ability to bring multiple departments with different priorities together and support them in achieving common goals

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Wiling to work all shifts, overtime and weekends as needed. Estimated shift times 1st shift: 5 AM - 3:30 PM; 2nd shift: 3:30 PM - 2 AM
  • Must be able to stoop, bend, crawl, and able to maneuver in tight spaces
  • Must be able to lift up to 25lbs unassisted

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range: 
Automation & Controls Specialist /Level 1: $34.00 - $40.00/hour
Automation & Controls Specialist/Level 2: $38.00 - $45.00/hour
Automation & Controls Specialist/Level 3: $42.00 - $51.00/hour

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Non-exempt Washington employees are eligible for sick leave in accordance with Washington's Sick Leave policies.

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