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Controls Engineer Industrial Automation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer - Industrial Automation (PLC / Robotics) Location: Columbus, IN (On-site | Relocation Not Available) Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000 (DOE) Employment Type: Direct Hire (Exempt) Job ...

Controls Engineer

Pierceton, IN · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Industrial Manufacturing We are working with a industrial manufacturing company in Pierceton, IN. They are looking to add an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to their team . This is a key ...

Industrial Manufacturing We are working with a industrial manufacturing company in Pierceton, IN. They are looking to add an experienced Automation & Controls Engineer to their team . This is a key ...

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$88.10K - $113.90K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience with PLC programming, industrial automation, and troubleshooting controls systems in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Responsibilities: * Design ...

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA · On-site

$88.10K - $113.90K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience with PLC programming, industrial automation, and troubleshooting controls systems in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Responsibilities: * Design ...

Control Engineer

Allegan, MI · On-site

$73.10K - $94.50K/yr

Controls Engineer (Industrial Automation) Location: West Michigan (on the Kalamazoo River) Are you passionate about automation, control systems, and solving complex industrial challenges? Our client ...

Automation and Controls Engineer

Jonesboro, AR · On-site

$83.30K - $110.30K/yr

Controls Engineer (Rockwell Automation) Location: Jonesboro, Arkansas Position Overview: We are ... Solid understanding of industrial networks and communication protocols. * Experience working in ...

Controls Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$80.70K - $104.40K/yr

About the Role The Controls Engineer supports and leads controls engineering efforts across material handling and industrial automation projects. Depending on experience, this role may focus on ...

Controls Engineer We are currently seeking a talented Controls Engineer to join our team at our ... Troubleshooting industrial automation equipment * SCADA system design and implementation

Controls Engineer We are currently seeking a talented Controls Engineer to join our team at our ... Troubleshooting industrial automation equipment * SCADA system design and implementation

senior Automation controls Engineer

Dallas, TX · On-site

$102.90K - $135K/yr

Dallas, TX We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Automation Controls Engineer / Subject Matter Expert (SME) with strong expertise in Allen Bradley PLC systems and industrial automation equipment.

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Controls Engineer Industrial Automation information

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$46K

$98.2K

$140.5K

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

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer industrial automation 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Engineer in Industrial Automation, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer in Industrial Automation, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and PLC programming, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Siemens or Rockwell Automation are typically required. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the efficient design, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated systems, which are critical for operational reliability and productivity in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Controls Engineers face when working on industrial automation projects?

Controls Engineers in industrial automation often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, ensuring system reliability under demanding production schedules, and troubleshooting unexpected malfunctions in real time. Additionally, they must keep up with evolving technologies and industry standards while coordinating closely with cross-functional teams like mechanical engineers, electricians, and production managers. Effective problem-solving skills and clear communication are essential to overcome these hurdles and deliver successful automation solutions.

What does a Controls Engineer in Industrial Automation do?

A Controls Engineer in Industrial Automation designs, develops, and maintains the control systems used to automate manufacturing and industrial processes. Their work involves programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), configuring Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and ensuring that machinery operates efficiently and safely. They collaborate with other engineers and technicians to troubleshoot issues and implement improvements. Controls Engineers play a critical role in increasing productivity and reducing downtime in automated environments.
More about Controls Engineer Industrial Automation jobs
What cities are hiring for Controls Engineer Industrial Automation jobs? Cities with the most Controls Engineer Industrial Automation job openings:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Industrial Automation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Industrial Automation jobs are:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Industrial Automation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,186 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation (PLC / Robotics)

Location: Columbus, IN (On-site | Relocation Not Available)

Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000 (DOE)

Employment Type: Direct Hire (Exempt)


Job Summary

We are supporting a confidential industrial automation and custom equipment manufacturer seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, startup, and deployment of automated manufacturing systems.

This is a hands-on, project-based role ideal for an early-career to mid-level Controls Engineer who enjoys working with PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and electrical design in a custom automation environment. This role is not a plant maintenance position — engineers are involved throughout the full equipment lifecycle, from design and programming through commissioning, testing, and customer acceptance.


Required Skills & Qualifications
  • 1+ years of hands-on experience in industrial automation / controls engineering
  • PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Keyence, or similar platforms)
  • Experience programming industrial robots or cobots (Fanuc, Universal Robots, Doosan, or similar)
  • Experience with vision systems (Keyence, Cognex, or similar)
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
  • Working knowledge of industrial safety circuits
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

Preferred Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience with HMI and motion control systems
  • Exposure to SQL Server / database setup
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar electrical design software
  • Experience supporting equipment startups, runoffs, and commissioning
  • Comfortable supporting projects outside of first shift as needed

Day-to-Day Responsibilities
  • Program and support PLCs, robotics, and vision systems for custom automation equipment
  • Support equipment startup, testing, commissioning, and customer acceptance
  • Design and support electrical systems including control panels, wiring, and circuits
  • Support field wiring, debugging, and system troubleshooting
  • Diagnose electrical and controls issues and implement corrective actions
  • Support creation of project documentation and training materials
  • Collaborate with engineering and production teams to transition equipment into production
  • Communicate project status and technical details with customers and internal stakeholders

Physical and Environment Requirements

Physical expectations and working conditions may include standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods; lifting up to 30–50 lbs; working at varying heights; and working in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Some onsite installation and support work may be required.


Company Benefits & Culture
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
  • Stable pipeline of custom automation projects
  • Opportunity to work on technically challenging, non-repetitive equipment
  • Collaborative engineering environment with hands-on ownership


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