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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Providence, RI

Cadence Inc

Principal Automation Engineer

Cranston, RI · On-site

$122K - $169K/yr

Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Controls Engineering preferred. * 10+ years of experience developing and implementing automation solutions within a manufacturing environment. * Demonstrated ...

Cadence Inc

Principal Automation Engineer

Cranston, RI · On-site

$122K - $169K/yr

Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Controls Engineering preferred. * 10+ years of experience developing and implementing automation solutions within a manufacturing environment. * Demonstrated ...

Avance Cabinetry

Automation Engineer

Fall River, MA · On-site

We are seeking a highly skilled Automation Engineer to lead the commissioning, operation ... two-hand controls). • Proficiency reading and creating electrical schematics and pneumatic ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Automation Engineer

Stoughton, MA · On-site

Job Title Automation Engineer Summary Our Purpose: At C&W Services, we live by the belief that ... advanced automation controls systems maintenance and development * 3+ years of experience ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Automation Engineer

Johnston, RI · On-site

Job Title Automation Engineer Summary Our Purpose: At C&W Services, we live by the belief that ... advanced automation controls systems maintenance and development * 3+ years of experience ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Automation Engineer

Johnston, RI · On-site

Job Title Automation Engineer Summary At C&W Services, we live by the belief that "Better Never ... advanced automation controls systems maintenance and development * 3+ years of experience ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Norton, MA

$105K - $138K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer role requires an individual have a diverse engineering skill set ... ISA S95 Controls System Architecture standard * GAMP 5 & cGMP * 21 CFR Part 11 * Demonstrated ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Middleborough, MA

$108K - $142K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer role requires an individual have a diverse engineering skill set ... ISA S95 Controls System Architecture standard * GAMP 5 & cGMP * 21 CFR Part 11 * Demonstrated ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Norton, MA

$105K - $138K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer role requires an individual have a diverse engineering skill set ... ISA S95 Controls System Architecture standard * GAMP 5 & cGMP * 21 CFR Part 11 * Demonstrated ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Middleborough, MA · On-site

$108K - $142K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer role requires an individual have a diverse engineering skill set ... ISA S95 Controls System Architecture standard * GAMP 5 & cGMP * 21 CFR Part 11 * Demonstrated ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Norton, MA · On-site

$105K - $138K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer role requires an individual have a diverse engineering skill set ... ISA S95 Controls System Architecture standard * GAMP 5 & cGMP * 21 CFR Part 11 * Demonstrated ...

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All JobsControls And Automation Engineer JobsControls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Providence, RI

Controls And Automation Engineer information

See Providence, RI salary details

$46.5K

$99.2K

$141.9K

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in Providence, RI is $99,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $111,600.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Providence, RI? For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Providence, RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Providence, RI look for? The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Providence, RI are:
What cities near Providence, RI are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Providence, RI with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:
Controls And Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in Providence, RI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,191 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

SCADA Controls Automation Engineer

Woodard & Curran

Providence, RI

$84K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Woodard & Curran is an employee-owned engineering, science, and operations firm dedicated to clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities, and happy people. We foster an inclusive, collaborative culture that supports professional growth, flexibility, and meaningful work, empowering our employees to make a lasting impact on our clients, communities, and the planet.


Woodard & Curran is seeking a dynamic, client-focused SCADA Automation & Controls Engineer to join our Team, supporting projects across the New England Region, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. In this role, you'll collaborate with municipal and some industrial clients to develop, implement and manage a variety of water, wastewater, and remediation projects, with a focus on automation and control systems.

You'll support projects from planning through completion, with a team of project managers, technical managers, project engineers, and operations staff to ensure delivery within scope, schedule, and budget. Regular client interaction is key-you'll serve as a trusted advisor, keeping clients and our project managers informed on project status and identifying future opportunities to enhance their operations.

This position involves regular travel to job sites (typically within driving distance) to support SCADA project startups, participate in preconstruction and kick-off meetings, and maintain strong client relationships throughout the project lifecycle.

Who are we looking for:

The successful candidate will join a strong team of motivated individuals to execute projects for our municipal and industrial water and wastewater clients. The candidate will provide support for medium to large implementation projects that may be standalone or multidisciplinary SCADA projects. It is critical for the candidate to understand and meet project requirements while working within the project's scope, schedule, and budget constraints. Because the candidate will interface with a wide array of internal and external stakeholders, the candidate must have strong communication skills and technical skills. Additionally, the successful candidate will work closely with project engineers, technical managers, and project managers and contribute to initiatives aligned with improved performance and efficiency.

Offering Flexible Remote/Hybrid Work/Onsite Schedule: Hybrid work schedule (consisting of office, remote, and onsite pending project needs)

Travel: Regional travel up to up to 80%.  Occasional overnight travel.

What you will be doing at Woodard & Curran
  • Participate in site investigations to gather information about the client's systems, equipment and instruments to develop project plans and cost estimates to proactively maintain and upgrade the system;
  • Develop process logic for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) used in the monitoring and control of water and wastewater treatment systems;
  • Design graphical screens that represent process equipment and instrumentation in the Human Machine Interface (HMI) software packages used by our clients;
  • Design graphical screens for the Operator Interface Terminals (OITs) utilized in our SCADA systems;
  • Create automated reports, via specialized reporting software, to collect process information monitored by the SCADA system for use by the client or submission to regulatory agencies;
  • Participate in the installation (oversight of contractors and guidance in wiring terminations), checkout and modification of the field wiring associated with the equipment and instruments connected to the SCADA system;
  • Configure and calibrate instrumentation, including level, pressure, flow, temperature, process analyzers and more, and connecting to the SCADA system;
  • Configure and commission industrial networking hardware, including Ethernet switches, wireless access points and licensed frequency radios;
  • Participate in the testing and startup of the process equipment, instruments and SCADA system to ensure the SCADA system monitors and controls the equipment as intended;
  • Train operations personnel on the use, maintenance and troubleshooting of the SCADA system hardware, software and installation;
  • Participate in QA/QC activities for both the design deliverables produced by the design team and the code developed by the controls team.
  • Understand that safety is paramount and adhere to safety protocol.
What you will need to succeed:
  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering or associated field;
  • PE License or CAP (Certified Automation Professional) is a bonus;
  • 2 - 3 years' experience in control system integration
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PLC hardware and software (other PLC experience is a bonus);
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley FactoryTalk, Aveva Wonderware, Ignition and GE Proficy iFix HMI software (other HMI package experience is a bonus);
  • Experience configuring and developing graphics for OITs such as Allen-Bradley PanelView and Automation Direct C-More;
  • Experience with automated reporting software (such as SyTech's XLReporter and HachWims);
  • Hands-on experience configuring, interfacing with, and troubleshooting instrumentation found in the water and wastewater industry;
  • Experience with using electrical schematics to commission or troubleshoot a control panel;
  • Strong electrical and mechanical aptitude;
  • Experience with Microsoft Office suite (Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint);
  • Computer networking experience (hardware and configuration) is a bonus;
  • Experience in higher programming languages (VB, C++, Java, Python) is a bonus;
  • Water/wastewater industry experience is a bonus.
$75,000 - $100,000 a year
The anticipated pay range is flexible, depending on factors such as the employee's primary work location, skills, experience, and education. The following examples illustrate how the pay range for the same role can vary based on different locations. 

Group B (Providence, RI, Northampton, MA) = $75,000 - $90,000

Group C (Andover, MA & Canton, MA):  = $85,000 - $100,000

The anticipated pay range for this position is provided above; the final exempt salary or non-exempt hourly pay will depend on the candidate's experience level and a percentage-based geographic differential, considering the location where the candidate will be working. Geographic differentials recognize and reflect the cost of labor differences between geographic markets.
 
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Woodard & Curran offers a comprehensive benefits package. For more information about our benefits & workplace policies visit Benefit & Policy Information - Woodard & Curran.

 

E-Verify Participation: Woodard & Curran participates in E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. As part of this process, we provide access to the Right to Work & E-Verify postings.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accessibility: Woodard & Curran is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to non-discrimination and make employment decisions based on job-related factors. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact Beth Sweitzer.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Workplace Discrimination is Illegal Posting

 

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We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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