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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Meridian, MS

... g., millwright, electrician/controls, or equivalent technical trade) * Proficiency with PC ... world-class engineering, materials science expertise, and intelligent automation to deliver ...

Controls And Automation Engineer information

See Meridian, MS salary details

$45.1K

$96.3K

$137.8K

How much do controls and automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in Meridian, MS is $96,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $108,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Controls And Automation Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls And Automation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, control systems, or automation engineering; certifications like PLC programming or control system design are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure may be required for certain roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and testing control systems in manufacturing, industrial, or automation settingsDesigning electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry in various industries
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process control industriesWidespread across power, construction, manufacturing, and consulting sectors

Controls And Automation Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems and automation solutions, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems and electrical infrastructure. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in specialization and application areas.

What is a controls and automation engineer?

Controls and Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. Their main goal is to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability by implementing control systems like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), and robotics. They work closely with other engineering disciplines to integrate hardware and software solutions, troubleshoot system issues, and ensure optimal operation of automated processes. These engineers play a vital role in modern industrial settings by enabling advanced automation and data-driven decision-making.

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

To thrive as a Controls and Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial network protocols is essential, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges controls and automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing processes?

One common challenge Controls and Automation Engineers encounter is ensuring that new automation systems are compatible with existing legacy equipment and processes. This often requires careful planning, extensive testing, and sometimes custom interface development to avoid disruptions in production. Additionally, balancing the need for increased automation with maintaining system reliability and safety standards can be complex. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as IT, production, and maintenance, is crucial to address these integration hurdles effectively.
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Meridian, MS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,311 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Meridian, MS - Datacenter Technician

Catapult Solutions Group

Meridian, MS • On-site

$75K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Datacenter Technician - Meridian, MS
  • Department: Building Management Systems (BMS)/ HVAC Controls
  • Location: Meridian, Mississippi
  • Work Model: On-Site - This role requires the employee to be fully on-site at a multi-facility datacenter campus to perform physical installations and commissioning.
  • Role Type: 6-months contract-to-hire (Strong potential for FTE conversion)

About Our Client
Our client is a rapidly growing firm specializing in the design, programming, and support of Building Management and Power Monitoring Systems for commercial and mission-critical facilities. With a strong local reputation and a focus on projects where uptime is critical, they are dedicated to making buildings smarter and more reliable. They prioritize professional development and provide extensive support for employee certifications.
Job Description
Our client is seeking a detail-oriented Datacenter Technician professional who understands mechanical systems and thrives on problem-solving to join their expanding team. In this role, you will be responsible for making buildings "smarter" by ensuring HVAC and power systems operate at peak efficiency. You will collaborate closely with facility teams, contractors, and vendors to deliver high-quality automation solutions.
Depending on your level of experience, you may also take on a leadership role by mentoring junior technicians. Whether you are a mid-level or senior engineer, your day-to-day will involve a mix of programming, troubleshooting field devices, and validating system performance to ensure maximum uptime for clients.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Program and commission BMS/HVAC control systems, specifically Schneider EcoStruxure.
  • Configure system points, graphics, alarms, schedules, and histories.
  • Troubleshoot field devices, VFDs, and network communications including BACnet/IP and Modbus.
  • Review MEP drawings to develop or modify complex control sequences.
  • Execute rigorous point-to-point testing, functional testing, and trend validation.
  • Collaborate with facility teams, contractors, and vendors on-site.
  • Document all red lines, as-builts, and support ticket updates accurately.
  • Provide mentorship and guidance to junior technicians in senior-level roles.

Required Experience/Skills
  • Experience: 3-7+ years of controls or Building Automation Systems (BAS) experience.
  • Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of HVAC systems including AHUs, VAVs, chillers, boilers, and CRAC/CRAH units.
  • Schematics: Proven ability to read and modify controls schematics.
  • Networking: Strong grasp of networking fundamentals, including VLANs, routing, and IP configuration.
  • Soft Skills: A strong troubleshooting mindset and excellent communication skills.

Nice-to-Haves
  • Experience working with data centers or 24x7 mission-critical systems.
  • Familiarity with PMS/EPMS or energy analytics.
  • Professional certifications in Schneider EcoStruxure or Niagara N4.

Education
  • Relevant technical degree or equivalent field experience in mechanical/electrical engineering or HVAC controls.

Additional Information:
  • Equipment: Company-provided vehicle (for applicable roles), uniforms, laptop, smartphone, and tools.
  • Growth: Commitment to professional development through continuing education and OEM training.

APPLY NOW!
*Connect with your Catapult Recruiter: Kailyn Hartley, directly at kailyn.hartley@catapultsg.com *
*NOT AVAILABLE FOR C2C CONTRACTING*
BMS | Building Management System | HVAC | Schneider EcoStruxure | Controls Engineer | BACnet | Automation | Data Center | Niagara N4 | HVAC Controls | Building Automation Systems (BAS) | Data Center | Technician