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Dcs Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automation Engineer

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer POSITION DESCRIPTION NUMBER: HR-023-33 DEPARTMENT: Engineering REPORTS TO ... Depending on assignment, this may be DCS, PLC, SCADA, BAS, Validation, Manufacturing and Utilities ...

Automation Engineer

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer POSITION DESCRIPTION NUMBER: HR-023-33 DEPARTMENT: Engineering REPORTS TO ... Depending on assignment, this may be DCS, PLC, SCADA, BAS, Validation, Manufacturing and Utilities ...

Develop, modify, and troubleshoot automation logic (PLC, SCADA, DCS) in support of process control ... Collaborate with QA, Validation, Engineering, and IT to support system lifecycle management and ...

Automation Engineer

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer POSITION DESCRIPTION NUMBER: HR-023-33 DEPARTMENT: Engineering REPORTS TO ... Depending on assignment, this may be DCS, PLC, SCADA, BAS, Validation, Manufacturing and Utilities ...

Field experience troubleshooting PLC, HMI, DCS programming. Education & Experience: Bachelor's Degree in a technical field Proficiency in design software 5+ years of experience in an automation ...

Lead Automation Engineer

Denver, CO

$105K - $139K/yr

Lead Automation Engineer Education & Experience : Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field ... You'll play a key role in DCS/PLC programming and SCADA/HMI development, while also mentoring ...

Lead the programming, development, set up and commission of automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA or DCS) including training and maintenance * Supports the local organization on troubleshooting or ...

Automation Engineer

Wildwood, FL · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Lead the programming, development, set up and commission of automation systems (PLCs, HMIs, SCADA or DCS) including training and maintenance * Supports the local organization on troubleshooting or ...

Program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC/DCS systems, and collect PLC input and output data to ... Automation/Engineering, and/or equivalent work experience is preferred. * Experience working in an ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$93K - $130K/yr

SENIOR AUTOMATION ENGINEER ABOUT US Matrix Technologies, Inc. has been a leading provider of ... Lead the preparation of functional specifications, project test specifications, developing DCS/PLC ...

Job Title: Automation Engineer - Manufacturing Operations This role focuses on developing ... Program, configure, and troubleshoot distributed control systems (DCS), PLCs, SCADA systems, and ...

Lead Automation Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Lead Automation Engineer Education & Experience : Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field ... You'll play a key role in DCS/PLC programming and SCADA/HMI development, while also mentoring ...

Showing results 21-40

Dcs Automation Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$107.1K

$163K

How much do dcs automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for dcs automation engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DCS Automation Engineer?

To thrive as a DCS Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, process control, and automation systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PLC programming, SCADA systems, and certifications from vendors like Siemens or Emerson are typically required. Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications ensure reliable system performance, safety, and efficiency in highly automated industrial environments.

What is a DCS Automation Engineer?

A DCS Automation Engineer is a professional who specializes in designing, implementing, and maintaining Distributed Control Systems (DCS) used in industrial automation. They work to ensure that complex manufacturing or production processes are monitored and controlled efficiently and reliably. Their responsibilities often include programming control systems, troubleshooting equipment, integrating software and hardware, and optimizing processes for safety and productivity. DCS Automation Engineers play a crucial role in industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, power generation, and pharmaceuticals.

What are some common challenges faced by DCS Automation Engineers when integrating new systems into existing plant infrastructure?

DCS Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new control systems with legacy equipment, such as compatibility issues, limited documentation for older devices, and ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing operations. They must closely coordinate with operations, IT, and maintenance teams to develop phased implementation plans, perform rigorous testing, and troubleshoot unexpected integration problems. Proactively communicating with stakeholders and staying updated on the latest DCS technologies can help address these challenges effectively while ensuring plant safety and reliability.

What is the difference between Dcs Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectDcs Automation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
CertificationsPLC, DCS, and automation certificationsPLC, SCADA, and control system certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesIndustrial, manufacturing, or process industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in process automation and controlBroader control system design and integration
Job FocusProgramming and maintaining DCS systemsDesigning and implementing control systems

While both roles involve automation and control systems, a Dcs Automation Engineer specializes in DCS programming and maintenance within industrial plants, whereas a Control Systems Engineer has a broader focus on designing and integrating various control systems across industries.

More about Dcs Automation Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Dcs Automation Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Dcs Automation Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Dcs Automation Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dcs Automation Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Dcs Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,126 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Principal Automation Engineer

Plug Power, Inc.

Albemarle, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Plug Power rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

379th of 489 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

*CV Submittal to be done in English*

Principal Automation Engineer

Status: Exempt (salaried)

Department: Engineering - Electrical, Instrumentation & Controls

Position Summary

The Automation Engineer is a key member of the Electrolyzer engineering team and requires close interaction with the cross-discipline engineering, delivery, manufacturing, commissioning and service support teams. In this position the individual is responsible for the design, integration and testing of Package Controllers and Integrated Control & Safety systems of Plug's hydrogen generation systems. By combining strong troubleshooting skills, quality focus, and collaboration with cross-functional teams, the Automation Engineer ensures system robustness, user satisfaction, and continuous improvement of the existing control and safety systems. The successful candidate must be self-motivated, able to handle multiple assignments and willing to learn and adapt in a fast-paced engineering organization.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

  • Responsible for technical design of Plug's automation & control systems e.g. package control systems (PLC), Distributed Control & Safety Systems (DCS/ESD) and integrated control & safety systems (ICSS)
  • Develop basis of design and control system architectures for automation system and subsystem of next generation hydrogen generation systems considering cost reductions and reliability improvements
  • Ensure that interfaces with other engineering disciplines (e.g. process, instrumentation, functional safety and electrical) are consistent and aligned
  • Responsible for handling technical communication with external engineering parties, suppliers and where applicable to clients
  • Review documents prepared by sub-contractors to ensure quality and consistency
  • Provide support during the conceptual and basic design phase and help estimating costs of the project (hours, equipment and construction budgets)
  • Create system and subsystem specification/automation philosophy for procurement of automation systems
  • Assist in developing a project specific system design with all associated documentation (philosophies, layouts, specifications, block diagrams, Cause & Effect diagrams, etc.)
  • Ensure functional safety software/application design, development, testing, operation and maintenance will be in accordance with the IEC 61508 standards
  • Ensure cybersecurity requirements are embedded during system design and with secure access controls across PLC, SCADA and DCS environments
  • Participate in technical review meetings (P&ID review / HAZOP / SIL / LOPA / etc.)
  • Identify issues (problems, value improvement opportunities) and help clarify areas of complexity during all phases of the engineering design work
  • Provide frontline support for control system faults and subsystem communications issues on Electrolyzer systems in operation
  • Perform diagnostic and failure analysis on PLC/DCS-based systems
  • Assist in developing Functional Safety Management processes / procedures / instructions related to control systems
  • Assist in developing and implementation in an organization-wide IACS cybersecurity management system in line with the IEC 62443 standards
  • Is well-versed with (International) Codes & Standards, e.g. CE, IEC, ATEX, and ensures that designs comply with applicable codes & standards/legislation
  • Developing knowledge and skills to be able to address current and future project needs
  • Stay informed on the latest developments in industrial automation and IIoT/Edge solutions, OT cybersecurity and relevant codes & standards and ensure these developments are integrated into Plug's control system designs and practices.
  • Proactively communicate technical risks, challenges, and scope changes to the Engineering Manager and escalate critical issues as needed to ensure timely resolution
  • Responsible for growing Automation knowledge & expertise within the team
  • Mentor team members on design work and act as senior technical resource for guidance
  • Always Represent Plug Power in a professional manner and in all interactions
  • Perform all other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in industrial automation and relevant work experience
  • Has at least 10 years of experience as Automation engineer, preferably in renewable energy sector and/or product manufacturing and testing environment
  • Experience with Control System Hardware and Specification - I/O modules, ESD/SIS, BPCS, package control systems (PLC), Architecture Design, etc.
  • Knowledge and experience with various Package controllers (e.g. Siemens S7-1500, Schneider Electric M580, etc.) and SCADA-HMI systems
  • Knowledge and experience with various DCS based controllers (e.g. Emerson DeltaV, ABB 800xA, Honeywell Experion C300, Siemens PCS7, etc.)
  • Knowledge and experience with Functional Safety according to IEC 61511 or IEC 61508. Having a functional safety/machine safety certificate is a plus
  • Certified or proven expertise in OT cybersecurity and industrial networking for PLC/DCS/SCADA environments, with practical application of IEC 62443, and related standards (e.g. ISA/IEC 62443 Certificates, GICSP, TUV programs), including deep knowledge of network architectures, segmentation, and industrial communication protocols (e.g. Profinet, Modbus, OPC UA, Ethernet/IP)
  • Possess solid hands-on approach to problem-solving and with ability to debug and troubleshoot automation control systems
  • Computer and software systems skills including but not limited to: Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook
  • Must be capable of working independently, in a fast-paced environment, with minimal supervision.
  • Sound organizational skills for completing tasks as scheduled
  • Strong communication skills both verbal and written for the purpose of explaining challenges and solutions internally
  • Good interpersonal skills to successfully interface other engineering disciplines and customers

Plug Power, Inc. is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.


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