1

Automation Controls Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Automation Technician

Vadnais Heights, MN ยท On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Two or more years of experience supporting automation, controls, or industrial manufacturing equipment preferred. * Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment, HMIs, sensors, robotics ...

Automation Technician

Duluth, MN ยท On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Strong automation controls background is preferred - AB/Rockwell DC Drive; AB/Rockwell PLC's, Control Logic; Reading Electrical Drawings and Ladder Logic. * Experience with variable frequency drives ...

Controls Engineer

Plymouth, MN ยท On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

The ideal candidate is technically strong in building automation systems and controls, comfortable supporting projects remotely, and effective at explaining complex technical concepts over the phone.

Technical Recruiter

Hopkins, MN ยท Remote

$40 - $50/hr

Controls Engineers, Staff-Level Engineers, Field Engineers, DeltaV/Automation Engineering talent - Facilitate offer generation, negotiations, and candidate closing efforts. - Track recruiting ...

New

Technical Recruiter

Hopkins, MN ยท Remote

$40 - $50/hr

Controls Engineers, Staff-Level Engineers, Field Engineers, DeltaV/Automation Engineering talent - Facilitate offer generation, negotiations, and candidate closing efforts. - Track recruiting ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Automation Controls information

See Minnesota salary details

$45.1K

$96.2K

$137.6K

How much do automation controls jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls in Minnesota is $96,165.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,800.00 and $108,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation controls engineer?

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 cities in Minnesota are hiring for Automation Controls jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Automation Controls job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,165 per year, or $46.2 per hour.

Automation Technician

Minnetronix Medical

Vadnais Heights, MN โ€ข On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Exceptional People. Hard Problems. Meaningful Careers. Big Impact.
Nowhere else can you touch as many life-changing medical technologies. At Forj Medical, we work side by side with more than 100 medical device companies from startups to global giants to bring life-enhancing technologies to market. Working with us means solving hard problems with extraordinary people in a collaborative work environment. Join us.
Job Summary:
The Automation Technician supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of automated manufacturing equipment and control systems. This role installs, troubleshoots, repairs, and maintains automation equipment while partnering with Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Maintenance to minimize downtime, improve equipment performance, and support new and existing production processes in a regulated medical-device manufacturing environment.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain automated manufacturing equipment, control systems, and related production technologies.
  • Diagnose issues involving programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), robotics, machine vision, sensors, motion-control systems, and electrical or pneumatic components.
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance to support equipment reliability, uptime, and production schedules.
  • Respond to equipment downtime, identify root causes, implement appropriate corrective actions, and escalate complex issues as needed.
  • Support the installation, startup, qualification, and validation of new or modified automation equipment and manufacturing processes.
  • Complete approved programming, configuration, and parameter adjustments in accordance with established change-control and documentation requirements.
  • Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, technical drawings, equipment manuals, and control-system documentation.
  • Maintain accurate equipment records, maintenance logs, backups, work orders, and technical documentation.
  • Partner with Manufacturing Engineering and Operations to identify and implement improvements that enhance safety, quality, efficiency, and equipment performance.
  • Work with Quality to ensure automation activities comply with applicable quality-system, regulatory, and validation requirements.
  • Assist with spare-parts identification and inventory needs for critical automation components.
  • Train and support operators and technical team members on equipment operation, basic troubleshooting, and standard work.
  • Follow all safety requirements, including electrical safety and lockout/tagout procedures, and maintain a clean and organized work area.
  • Support continuous-improvement initiatives and other technical projects as assigned.

Qualifications
Education:
  • Associate degree or technical diploma in Automation Technology, Mechatronics, Electronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, Industrial Maintenance, or a related field preferred.
  • Equivalent combination of technical training and relevant experience will be considered.

Experience:
  • Two or more years of experience supporting automation, controls, or industrial manufacturing equipment preferred.
  • Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment, HMIs, sensors, robotics, machine vision, electrical systems, and pneumatic systems.
  • Experience in medical-device, pharmaceutical, or another regulated manufacturing environment preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
  • Working knowledge of PLC and HMI platforms; experience with Rockwell/Allen-Bradley systems is preferred.
  • experience in programing, servicing and troubleshooting Epson robots.
  • Strong electrical and mechanical troubleshooting skills with the ability to use diagnostic tools safely and effectively.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, technical drawings, and equipment documentation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to organize priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Clear communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively across Operations, Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance.
  • Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office and computerized maintenance or work-order systems.
  • Ability to work independently and provide flexible support outside regular hours when business needs require.

Working Conditions
  • Office environment
  • Manufacturing environment

EEO Statement
Forj Medical provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Employment Requirement
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Compensation and Total Rewards Package
The salary range for this position is outlined below under "Job Details" and is dependent upon the individual's skills, experience, qualifications, and applicable employment laws. Beyond base salary, Forj offers a competitive Total Rewards Package. We offer health, dental, vision, 401K plans, and time off programs. You may also be eligible to participate in an annual bonus program which depends on various factors, including, individual and organizational performance.