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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Tempe, AZ

APEL Extrusions Inc.

Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $106K/yr

*Controls Systems Engineer / Electrical Automation Engineer Salary Range: 100- 120K Monday - Friday Onsite Position Position Summary Apel Extrusions is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Controls ...

Kelly Services

Lead Automation Controls Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer III Location: Tempe AZ Travel: 25%-50% (Domestic and International) Summary/Objective: Are you passionate about complex automation challenges and leading innovative ...

EMCOR Group, Inc.

Automation Field Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Job Summary The Automation Field Engineer will provide service, test, adjust, and repair new or ... Microsoft software products knowledge and controls networking. * A valid driver's license. #Mesa ...

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All JobsControls And Automation Engineer JobsControls And Automation Engineer Jobs in Tempe, AZ

Controls And Automation Engineer information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$44.1K

$94K

$134.6K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in Tempe, AZ is $94,040.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $105,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ?

For Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs in Tempe, AZ are:

What cities near Tempe, AZ are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Tempe, AZ 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 Tempe, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,040 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Controls Engineer

APEL Extrusions Inc.

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support, maintain, and improve automation, electrical controls, industrial networking, and manufacturing information systems throughout the facility.

  • Troubleshoot complex manufacturing equipment issues, develop engineering solutions, and lead automation projects from concept through commissioning.

  • Participate in troubleshooting, support installation and startup of new equipment, and lead controls modernization and automation upgrades.

Job description

*Controls Systems Engineer / Electrical Automation Engineer
Salary Range: 100- 120K
Monday - Friday Onsite Position
Position Summary
Apel Extrusions is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Controls Systems Engineer to support, maintain, and improve the automation, electrical controls, industrial networking, and manufacturing information systems throughout our aluminum extrusion operations. This position plays a critical role in maximizing equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.
The Controls Systems Engineer will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, IT, contractors, and OEMs to troubleshoot complex manufacturing equipment issues, develop engineering solutions, and lead automation projects from concept through commissioning. This role requires strong technical expertise in PLCs, HMIs, drives, SCADA systems, industrial networking, and manufacturing systems integration, as well as a willingness to actively engage on the production floor diagnosing and resolving equipment issues.
This is a plant-based position requiring frequent presence in a non-temperature-controlled manufacturing environment, active participation in troubleshooting activities, and direct interaction with operating and maintenance personnel.
Primary Responsibilities
Industrial Automation amp; Controls
  • Design, program, troubleshoot, modify, and maintain:
    • Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs
    • Allen-Bradley PowerFlex Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Allen-Bradley PanelView HMIs
    • Servo systems, motion controls, and associated automation equipment
    • Industrial Ethernet communication networks
  • Modify PLC and HMI programs to improve equipment reliability and functionality.
  • Implement machine safety logic, interlocks, and control strategies.
  • Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, instrumentation, communications, and automation faults.
  • Support installation, startup, commissioning, and validation of new equipment and control systems.
  • Develop and maintain standardized programming practices, electrical documentation, and control narratives.
  • Maintain backups and revision control of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and drive programs.
SCADA amp; Manufacturing Systems
  • Develop, maintain, and improve Ignition applications.
  • Create dashboards, alarm management systems, reports, historian configurations.
  • Configure user security and role-based access controls.
  • Develop scripting and automation within Ignition.
  • Support manufacturing data acquisition and visualization initiatives.
  • Troubleshoot data collection, historian performance, and system integration issues.
SQL amp; ERP Integration
  • Maintain SQL databases supporting manufacturing operations.
  • Develop SQL queries, stored procedures, reports, and data analytics tools.
  • Interface production equipment with SQL-based ERP and business systems.
  • Support manufacturing KPI reporting, production analytics, and operational decision-making.
  • Troubleshoot data integrity and communication issues between manufacturing equipment and enterprise systems.
Industrial Networking amp; Cybersecurity
  • Support industrial automation networks integrated with the corporate IT infrastructure utilizing dedicated VLANs.
  • Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot:
    • Managed Ethernet switches
    • Ethernet/IP communications
    • Industrial network devices
    • VLAN communications
    • Network reliability and performance
  • Coordinate with Corporate IT regarding cybersecurity, firewall configurations, network architecture, and system updates.
Maintenance amp; Operations Support
  • Actively participate in troubleshooting and resolving equipment failures alongside maintenance technicians, engineers, and operations personnel.
  • Lead root cause investigations for recurring equipment and process issues.
  • Develop corrective actions and long-term solutions to eliminate repetitive failures.
  • Create preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for automation and controls systems.
  • Track equipment downtime, failure frequencies, and reliability metrics.
  • Provide technical training and mentorship to maintenance personnel and electrical trades.
Engineering amp; Continuous Improvement
  • Lead controls modernization, automation upgrades, and continuous improvement projects.
  • Evaluate obsolete hardware and develop replacement and migration strategies.
  • Support capital projects from concept development through commissioning and startup.
  • Review and participate in equipment modifications and capital installations while ensuring compliance with applicable engineering standards.
  • Facilitate risk assessments, value analyses, and engineering studies to support repair, replacement, or redesign decisions.
  • Manage contractor and OEM activities during equipment repairs, upgrades, and installations.
  • Develop engineering solutions that improve safety, reliability, productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related engineering discipline; or
  • Licensed Journeyman Electrician with advanced PLC/Automation certification and equivalent industrial experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of industrial automation and controls experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience programming Allen-Bradley PLC platforms, including ControlLogix and CompactLogix.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PowerFlex drives.
  • Experience developing and troubleshooting HMI systems.
  • Experience with Ignition SCADA.
  • Strong SQL database knowledge and development experience.
  • Experience integrating manufacturing equipment with ERP and manufacturing systems.
  • Knowledge of Ethernet/IP and industrial networking systems.
  • Strong electrical and controls troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in aluminum extrusion, metals manufacturing, or other continuous manufacturing operations.
  • Experience with Rockwell Studio 5000.
  • Experience with FactoryTalk products.
  • Experience with OPC UA communications.
  • Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity best practices.
  • Experience with SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS), Microsoft Power BI, and Microsoft Fabric.
  • Understanding of ISA-95 manufacturing architecture.
Working Environment
This position is primarily plant-based within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment. The Controls Systems Engineer is expected to maintain a significant presence on the production floor and actively engage with maintenance, operations, and engineering personnel to troubleshoot equipment and implement improvements.
Requirements include:
  • Physical interaction with machinery for troubleshooting, testing, commissioning, and maintenance support.
  • Participation in planned maintenance outages, equipment startups, and capital project installations.
  • Occasional after-hours, weekend, or emergency support as required to maintain critical production equipment.
  • Strict adherence to all company and regulatory safety procedures.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The successful candidate is a hands-on manufacturing automation professional who is equally comfortable troubleshooting equipment on the production floor, developing PLC and SCADA applications, analyzing manufacturing data, supporting industrial networks, and leading engineering improvement projects. They thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, enjoy solving complex problems, and possess a strong commitment to safety, reliability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
*Recruiters and Staffing agencies- please kindly do not reach out*

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