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Automation Controls Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GAF

Automation & Controls Specialist II

Dallas, TX · On-site

$74K - $102K/yr

Job Summary The Automation and Controls Specialist role provides leadership and technical expertise in support of the safe and reliable operation of the manufacturing plant. Their primary focus will ...

Gaf

Automation & Controls Specialist II

Dallas, TX

$74K - $102K/yr

Job Summary The Automation and Controls Specialist role provides leadership and technical expertise in support of the safe and reliable operation of the manufacturing plant. Their primary focus will ...

Liberty Personnel, Inc

Controls Specialist

Louisville, KY · Hybrid

$28.75 - $38/hr

Controls Specialist Are you ready to join an innovative team committed to excellence in industrial ... We are searching for a talented Automation & Controls Technician eager to make an impact by ...

ControlsJobs

BAS - Controls Programmer

Spokane, WA

$30.25 - $40/hr

Controls Specialist - Spokane, WA - Building Automation Controls Firm INCREDIBLE building automation controls firm that has been around for 35+ years.. A lot of the company's projects are generally ...

Convergix Automation

Controls Specialist

Exton, PA · On-site

Controls Specialist Exton, PA We are seeking talented and energetic individuals to join our growing ... Convergix is a global automation systems integrator that serves diverse end markets. We design ...

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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 11, 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 (Starlink Development)

Automation & Controls Specialist (Starlink Development)

SpaceX

Bastrop, TX • On-site

$83K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 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

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
AUTOMATION & CONTROLS SPECIALIST (STARLINK DEVELOPMENT)
SpaceX is developing a low-latency, broadband internet system to meet the needs of consumers across the globe. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast, reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and places where existing services are too expensive or unreliable. The Automation & Controls team is responsible for designing, building, installing, and commissioning new automation assets, which are key in enabling production. The Automation & Controls Specialists are responsible for the hands-on integration, commissioning, and design iteration process alongside engineering to deliver safe, innovative, and reliable solutions for the Starlink program.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Integrate and commission electromechanical production systems using a wide array of tools, machines, and equipment, and collaborate with engineering to deliver solutions
  • Develop, build, and execute new automation solutions for our production lines and work to improve existing automated assets to meet production requirements
  • Read, understand, utilize, and redline system-level schematics (mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic)
  • Build industrial control panels to NFPA 79 & UL 508A standards
  • Design, implement, and commission PLC and HMI software applications
  • Spec and procure required components, sensors, and hardware needed for implementing control solutions
  • Maintain and support the operation of the automation lab by enforcing proper workflow, safety, tidiness, and inventory control of consumables and equipment
  • Perform and promote 5S principles of organizing and sustaining an efficient and presentable team work space
  • Work creatively and innovate to support team goals by always being prepared to challenge the status quo and develop unique solutions

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or equivalency certificate
  • 2+ years of automation experience in a manufacturing and production environment
  • 2+ years of experience working with mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic systems

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Demonstrated hands-on skill in fault finding and mechanical system troubleshooting
  • Creative, detail oriented, and highly organized with exceptional communication skills
  • Strong, working knowledge of NFPA 70 (National Electrical Code), NFPA 70E (Standard for Electrical Safety), NFPA 79, and UL508A codes
  • PLC & HMI programming experience or familiarization using ladder logic and structured text (Beckoff Twincat, Siemens TIA, and Allen-Bradley RSLogix)
  • Experience with electrical and pneumatic schematics for automated equipment using EPLAN Electrical/Fluid and Visio software suites or equivalent
  • Experience with electrical control panel design, building, and wiring
  • Excellent skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint
  • Skilled in gathering and analyzing information to understand complex problems
  • Ability to maintain a safe and clean working environment while adhering to company policies, quality policies, and industry standards

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Must be able to acquire forklift certification
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs. unassisted
  • Lifting, standing, climbing, bending, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying are generally required to perform the functions of this position
  • Must be willing to work overtime and weekends as required to support critical milestones

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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