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Automation Controls Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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BIW Automation Engineer

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

BIW Automation and Controls Engineer - Automotive Products - Minimum of 4+ years' Experience - Manufacturing Engineering or Process Engineering with Automation Experience in Steel Stamping Processes.

Maintains computer software and hardware and all facets of automation controls. * Makes hardware and software upgrades to Programmable Logic Controllers, Micro Controllers and Process Computer ...

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Opelika, AL ยท On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls & Automation Engineer champions the development & support of the site's production equipment controls and automation infrastructure. This individual keeps abreast of current ...

Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Opelika, AL ยท On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls & Automation Engineer champions the development & support of the site's production equipment controls and automation infrastructure. This individual keeps abreast of current ...

Controls & Automation Engineer

Vance, AL ยท On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

CONTROLS ENGINEER (7pm-4am) TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA As a member of the Engineering team, the Controls ... Experience with automation equipment (Fanuc / ABB Robots and Vision Systems). * Experience with ...

Controls & Automation Engineer

Vance, AL ยท On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

CONTROLS ENGINEER (7pm-4am) TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA As a member of the Engineering team, the Controls ... Experience with automation equipment (Fanuc / ABB Robots and Vision Systems). * Experience with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Controls information

See Alabama salary details

$41.7K

$89K

$127.3K

How much do automation controls jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls in Alabama is $88,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,700.00 and $100,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, PLC programming, and industrial automation, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools and systems like Siemens, Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMI/SCADA software, and certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These abilities are crucial for designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated systems that drive efficiency and productivity in manufacturing and industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Automation Controls professionals when integrating new equipment into existing systems?

Automation Controls professionals often encounter challenges when integrating new equipment, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining consistent communication protocols, and minimizing downtime. Troubleshooting these issues requires strong problem-solving skills and collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineers, IT specialists, and production staff. Staying updated on the latest industry standards and technologies is also essential for successful integration and ongoing system optimization.

What is the difference between Automation Controls vs Electrical Technicians?

AspectAutomation ControlsElectrical Technicians
CertificationsPLC, DCS, or automation system certificationsElectrical licenses, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation system setupsConstruction sites, electrical maintenance
Industry UsageIndustrial automation, process controlElectrical installation and repair

Automation Controls specialists focus on designing, programming, and maintaining automation systems like PLCs and DCS, primarily in manufacturing environments. Electrical Technicians handle electrical wiring, troubleshooting, and repairs across various settings. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Automation Controls professionals specialize in automation technology, making their skills more aligned with modern industrial systems.

What are automation controls?

Automation controls refer to the systems and devices used to manage, command, direct, or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems in industrial and manufacturing processes. These controls typically include hardware and software components such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and actuators. The primary goal of automation controls is to increase efficiency, safety, and reliability while reducing manual intervention and operational costs. People working in automation controls design, program, install, and maintain these systems across various industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation.
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Automation Controls jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Automation Controls job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls job openings in Alabama 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 $88,995 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

Controls & Automation Engineer V

Hargrove Engineers and Constructors

Mobile, AL โ€ข On-site

$82K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

What You'll Be Doing

Job Summary: Generally responsible for performing all aspects for complete design of Controls & Automation engineering assignments. This position can operate as the technical lead or team member on any given project. This position will commonly operate as the technical lead on a project. Must be a strong technical programmer as well as be able to mentor younger engineers and specialists. This work will be performed under general supervision.

Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Familiarity with and utilize department standards and policies.

  • Familiarity with project scope, specifications, and design criteria upon assignment to a project task team.

  • Recognizing and communicating scope and design changes promptly.

  • Providing on-site assistance during startup.

  • Providing technical guidance to less experienced engineering personnel in the department.

  • Coordinating work activities with other staff members and C&A Office Leaders.

  • Producing estimate level automation system architecture designs and bill of material generation suitable for the level of the estimate being performed on a project.

  • Producing control system installation specifications.

  • Developing conceptual layouts and cost studies as necessary to determine the most simple, efficient approach to solving engineering tasks at hand.

  • Producing estimate level preliminary designs and equipment lists suitable for the level of the estimate being performed on a project.

  • Designing control systems with an overall emphasis on ease of maintenance and completed product meeting the expectations of the client.

  • Consulting with design leaders from other disciplines to ensure the smooth flow of vital information necessary for the scheduled completion of the project.

  • Advising the senior engineer concerning design or scope changes which have been identified.

  • Reviewing and checking vendor drawings and other discipline drawings for Controls & Automation input.

  • Reviewing fabrication drawings and other construction submittals for conformance to engineering drawings and specifications.

  • Performing fieldwork necessary to gather field data and retrieve existing control system configuration.

  • Applying knowledge of the discipline specific methods, practices, and techniques required to engineer, design, and construct process and manufacturing projects.

  • Applying advanced engineering techniques and analysis to complex designs.

  • Estimating and scheduling professional service hours and assess the progress and quality of control system and HMI programming.

  • Understanding of the skills and experience required to perform engineering and design functions.

  • Developing small work sharing packages for interoffice execution support.

This position offers a highly competitive compensation package, including paid time off, health insurance benefits, and matching retirement contributions.

Ideal Background

Education: Bachelor or Master of Science degree in Chemical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering from an accredited university is required.

Registration: Professional Engineer (PE) registration is highly preferred.

Experience: This position requires a minimum 10 years of relevant industrial experience in controls and automation engineering

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Experience in the design, implementation, testing/FAT/SAT, deployment/installation, and startup/commissioning for automation projects.

  • Ability to understand and implement the current version of ISA S88 programming standards.

  • Ability to understand and implement the current version of IEC 61131 programming languages and standards.

  • Ability to understand and implement the current version of OSHA 1910.119 Management of Change.

  • Familiarity with specifications and installation details of equipment.

  • Ability to create accurate controls hardware installation documents from the information found on vendor equipment drawings.

  • Ability to develop equipment specifications for medium-sized projects involving PLC's, HMI's, DCS's, SIS's, plant information management systems (PIMS), manufacturing execution systems (MES), industrial networks, etc.

  • Experience with three or more of the following systems (DCS, PLC, HMI, or SIS) OR Extensive knowledge of at least one of the following systems: - DCS - Honeywell TDC2000/TDC3000 - Honeywell Experion - Emerson DeltaV - Yokogawa Centum 3000 - Yokogawa Centum VP - ABB 800xA - Siemens PCS 7 - Foxboro - PLC - Allen Bradley Control Logix - Allen Bradley PLC 5 - Allen Bradley SLC 500 - Allen Bradley Micro Logix - Allen Bradley Compact Logix - Siemens S7-400 - Siemens S7-300 - Siemens S7-1200 - Siemens S7-1500 - Modicon PLC's - GE PLC's - HMI - Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View SE - Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View ME - Wonderware - GE iFix - SIS - Triconex - Yokogawa ProSafe - Honeywell FSC and Safety Manager - DeltaV SIS - Rockwell AAdvance - Allen Bradley GuardLogix - HIMA - Triplex - Quadlog

  • Knowledge and understanding of schedule constraints and information requirements for the production of all project deliverables.

  • Ability to develop control system installation specifications.

  • Ability to accurately estimate completion of assigned tasks.

  • Ability to develop a construction cost estimate, a detailed engineering schedule, and a man-hour budget for a small Controls & Automation project or an area for a larger project.

  • Ability to understand and apply company engineering design standards.

  • Ability to read and interpret PFD's, P&ID's, and instrument loop sheets.

  • Knowledge and application of TCP/IP networking protocols, media (twisted pair, coaxial, fiber optic, wireless, etc.), and equipment, including managed switches and routers.

  • Knowledge and application of instrument field busses including sizing, installation, and operation.

  • Familiarity with asset management concepts and systems.

  • Ability to troubleshoot I/O problems in the field using a multimeter.

  • Ability to troubleshoot software problems in the field.

  • Ability to troubleshoot networking problems in the field using common isolation techniques and more advanced techniques such as equipment logs, cable testers, network sniffers/packet analyzers, etc.

  • Knowledge and application of at least one of the following in support of control system installation: - Microsoft Windows Client - Microsoft Server Operating Systems - UNIX - Linux - VMS

  • Ability to install and configure control system vendor software on various platforms.

  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

  • Broad knowledge of industrial networking.

  • Good communication skills, both verbal and written.

  • Ability to lead a small team to deliver on commitments.

  • Ability to deliver good presentations of Hargrove Controls & Automation services.

  • Ability to accurately estimate completion of assigned tasks.

  • Forecasting hours to complete professional services.

  • Developing design criteria and scope of work.

  • Excellent virtual team skills and cross divisional relationships.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to sit, stand, or walk for long periods of time.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with command line computer interfaces.

  • Experience with Windows Domains.

  • Experience with Windows Active Directory.

  • Experience with creating, using, and deploying Virtual Machines.

  • Experience with Network Security.

  • Knowledge of Modbus protocols (Serial and TCP).

  • Knowledge of Ethernet and LAN/WAN systems such as Cisco switches and routers.

  • Working knowledge of CAD software, either AutoCAD or Microstation.

Hargrove Culture

We work to create an environment founded on trust, personal integrity, and a "team mentality" so that each person understands the value of their contributions both on a project and company-wide level. We know that each person on our team contributes to the success of our company by pairing expertise and passion to meet and exceed the needs of the clients we serve across the globe.

Our safety culture protects and promotes the well-being of every person who works with us and every person touched by our work.

As a 100% Teammate owned company, we proudly offer a comprehensive benefits package including, paid holidays, personal paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), and other benefits to eligible Teammates.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Hargrove is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, sexual identity, marital or family status), disability, military service or obligations, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Hargrove is a drug-free workplace.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.