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Controls Engineer Automotive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Elkton, MI ยท On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automotive Automation We're seeking a Controls Engineer to support automation equipment in a high-volume automotive manufacturing environment. This role focuses on PLC programming ...

Controls Engineer

Utica, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

TransForm Automotive, an Amsted Automotive company, is seeking a Midnight Shift (11pm - 7am) Controls Engineer to support our Shelby Twp facility. The Controls Engineer will focus on developing and ...

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI ยท On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Overview The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Controls Engineer

Utica, MI

$76K - $98K/yr

TransForm Automotive, an Amsted Automotive company, is seeking a Midnight Shift (11pm - 7am) Controls Engineer to support our Shelby Twp facility. The Controls Engineer will focus on developing and ...

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI

$75K - $97K/yr

Overview The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI

$75K - $97K/yr

The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and troubleshooting ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

Controls Engineer

Shelby, MI ยท On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

TransForm Automotive, an Amsted Automotive company, is seeking a Midnight Shift (11pm - 7am) Controls Engineer to support our Shelby Twp facility. The Controls Engineer will focus on developing and ...

Controls Engineer

Columbus, NE ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

HiFyve is hiring a Controls Engineer in the Automotive Industry! HiFyve is partnering with a leading Tier 1 automotive manufacturer to hire a Controls Engineer for their manufacturing facility in ...

Controls Engineer

Parma, MI ยท On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Michigan Automotive Compressor, Inc. (MACI), a world-class manufacturer of air conditioning ... The Controls Engineer will support the manufacturing department by implementing process ...

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Controls Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA ยท On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Automotive, Defense, Food Prep, Entertainment, Pharmaceutical and Aerospace. Responsibilities ... Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services, including ...

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Controls Engineer

Flint, MI ยท On-site

$50K - $250K/yr

Automotive, Defense, Food Prep, Entertainment, Pharmaceutical and Aerospace. Responsibilities ... Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services, including ...

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Controls Engineer

Indianapolis, IN ยท On-site

$50K - $250K/yr

Automotive, Defense, Food Prep, Entertainment, Pharmaceutical and Aerospace. Responsibilities ... Controls, Robotics, Joining, and Plant Maintenance. In addition, Engineering Services, including ...

Controls Engineer

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Overview The Controls Engineer is responsible for creating, documenting, developing, supporting and ... Piston Automotive wasn't just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And ...

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Controls Engineer Automotive information

See salary details

$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do controls engineer automotive jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer automotive in the United States is $96,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Engineer in the automotive industry, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer in automotive, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming, HMI systems, automotive industry standards, and tools like Siemens or Allen-Bradley platforms is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure the design and maintenance of reliable, efficient automation systems that meet safety and quality standards in automotive manufacturing.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer Automotive vs Controls Engineer Manufacturing?

AspectControls Engineer AutomotiveControls Engineer Manufacturing
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering; certifications like PLC or automation certifications are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in engineering and certifications in PLC, SCADA, or automation systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing control systems for vehicles, working with automotive suppliers, and manufacturing plantsDeveloping control systems for machinery, production lines, and industrial equipment in factories
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive manufacturing, vehicle electronics, and automotive suppliersUsed across various manufacturing sectors including consumer goods, machinery, and industrial equipment

Both roles involve designing and implementing control systems, but Controls Engineer Automotive focuses on vehicle-related systems within the automotive industry, while Controls Engineer Manufacturing covers a broader range of industrial applications. The credentials, work environment, and industry usage are quite similar, with the main difference being the specific industry focus.

What does a Controls Engineer do in the automotive industry?

A Controls Engineer in the automotive industry designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate manufacturing processes and vehicle functions. Their work involves programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), ensuring machinery operates efficiently, and integrating new technologies into production lines. They also troubleshoot and optimize systems to improve safety, quality, and productivity within automotive plants. Collaborating with other engineers and technicians, Controls Engineers play a vital role in advancing automotive manufacturing and automation.

What are some common challenges a Controls Engineer faces in the automotive industry, and how can they be addressed?

Controls Engineers in the automotive sector often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy systems, ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards, and troubleshooting complex manufacturing equipment. These issues require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers. Staying current with industry trends, participating in regular training, and leveraging collaborative tools can help Controls Engineers overcome these challenges and ensure smooth production processes.
More about Controls Engineer Automotive jobs
What cities are hiring for Controls Engineer Automotive jobs? Cities with the most Controls Engineer Automotive job openings:
What states have the most Controls Engineer Automotive jobs? States with the most job openings for Controls Engineer Automotive jobs include:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Automotive job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Controls Engineer

OtterBase

Elkton, MI โ€ข On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Description Controls Engineer - Automotive Automation We're seeking a Controls Engineer to support automation equipment in a high-volume automotive manufacturing environment. This role focuses on PLC programming, HMI development, startup/commissioning, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of production systems. What You'll Do: Program and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs Support equipment startup, commissioning, and production launches Diagnose and resolve controls, electrical, and automation issues Perform I/O checkout, system validation, and production support Partner with engineering and manufacturing teams to improve equipment reliability What We're Looking For: 3+ years of Controls Engineering experience in manufacturing Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and FactoryTalk View Background in commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting automated equipment Automotive manufacturing experience preferred Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing team supporting advanced automation and high-volume manufacturing.