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Controls And Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Winlandfoods

Controls Automation Engineer

Grand Forks, ND

$86K - $112K/yr

Controls Automation Engineer Schedule: Primary work schedule is 1st shift, Monday-Friday, with flexibility as needed Work Location: 1801 N 36th St, Grand Forks, ND Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision ...

PrysmianGroup

Controls / Automation Engineer

Claremont, NC · On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

Provide controls and automation support for the manufacturing of optical fiber. Work with the ... S. in Engineering or Computer Science * Experience with programming Rockwell (Allen-Bradley ...

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Senior Controls & Automation Engineer

Mentor, OH · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

A growing advanced manufacturing organization is seeking a hands‐on Senior Controls & Automation Engineer to design, program, and support the control systems, automation equipment, and OT/IT networ ...

Continental

Controls /Automation Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation, Controls Automation, mechatronics, or related engineering field * 2+ years' experience with control systems in a manufacturing environment

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All JobsControls And Automation Engineer Jobs

Controls And Automation Engineer information

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$46K

$98.2K

$140.5K

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

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls and automation engineer in the United States is $98,186.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $110,500.00 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 are Controls and Automation Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Controls And Automation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Controls And Automation Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Controls And Automation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Controls And Automation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Controls And Automation Engineer jobs are:
Controls And Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls And Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,186 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer

Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer

Qualdoc

Ashland, VA • On-site

$39/hr

Contractor

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer

Location: Ashland, VA (Onsite)
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Job Type: 6-Month Contract-to-Hire
Starting Pay: From $39.00/hour, with higher pay available based on experience. No overtime offered.

Position Overview

We are looking for an experienced Industrial Controls & Automation Engineer to develop, integrate, and support electrical control systems used in overhead cranes and material handling equipment. This onsite position focuses on designing new automation solutions, improving existing systems, and providing technical expertise throughout installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in industrial automation, PLC programming, and electrical controls within heavy industrial or manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities
Control System Design
  • Design electrical control systems for overhead cranes and material handling equipment.
  • Develop and modify PLC programs, HMI interfaces, and control logic.
  • Create electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and control panel layouts.
  • Select and integrate components including VFDs, relays, sensors, and safety devices.
  • Ensure designs comply with CMAA, NFPA 70 (NEC), and ASME B30 standards.
Installation & Commissioning
  • Support and lead installation, startup, and commissioning of control systems.
  • Configure, test, and troubleshoot PLCs, VFDs, and industrial communication networks.
  • Perform system validation and optimize equipment performance before production.
Technical Support
  • Diagnose electrical and automation issues affecting crane operation.
  • Assist maintenance and field service teams with complex troubleshooting.
  • Support modernization projects, equipment upgrades, and control system retrofits.
Team Collaboration
  • Partner with engineers, technicians, and project managers throughout project execution.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior team members when needed.
  • Participate in continuous improvement efforts to increase equipment reliability and operational efficiency.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
  • At least 5 years of controls engineering experience, preferably with overhead cranes or other heavy industrial equipment.
  • Hands-on experience with:
    • PLC programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar platforms)
    • HMI and SCADA systems
    • Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Motor control systems
  • Ability to design, review, and interpret electrical schematics and control system documentation.
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or similar.
  • Strong understanding of crane motion systems, including hoist, trolley, and bridge controls.
  • Knowledge of CMAA, NEC, and ASME industry standards.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with crane automation technologies, anti-sway controls, or load monitoring systems.
  • Background in industrial system integration and equipment commissioning.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Comfortable working in manufacturing or industrial environments, including elevated work areas when required.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Work Environment
  • Full-time onsite position in an industrial manufacturing setting.
  • Occasional travel to customer or project locations may be required.
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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About Qualdoc

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Strategic planning consulting services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

2020

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