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Plc Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Controls & PLC Specialist

Bellmawr, NJ · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

The Controls Engineer and PLC Specialist is responsible for supporting, maintaining, and enhancing our production and facilities equipment through advanced electrical and PLC troubleshooting ...

Support the day to day operations of the Engineering and Maintenance Departments. * Take ... Develop and maintain a world class database of all plant PLC programs * Monitor and ensure timely ...

Controls & PLC Specialist

Bellmawr, NJ · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

The Controls Engineer and PLC Specialist is responsible for supporting, maintaining, and enhancing our production and facilities equipment through advanced electrical and PLC troubleshooting ...

The Controls Engineer and PLC Specialist is responsible for supporting, maintaining, and enhancing our production and facilities equipment through advanced electrical and PLC troubleshooting ...

Controls Specialist

Toledo, OH · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for planning, implementing and maintaining stable and capable ... Proven program experience with Siemens, Fanuc, Allen Bradley, PLC-5, SLC500 or Controls Logix

PLC Controls Mechanic

Commerce, CA

$84K - $107K/yr

Support the day to day operations of the Engineering and Maintenance Departments. * Take ... Develop and maintain a world class database of all plant PLC programs * Monitor and ensure timely ...

Controls Engineer, PLC

Southfield, MI · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Minimum of 5 years of hands-on controls engineering experience in industrial automation, custom machinery, machine design, or test equipment manufacturing. * Proficiency with PLC programming and ...

Controls Engineer

Ridge, TX · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

This role is responsible for programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining PLC-based control ... PLC & Controls Programming Proficient programming and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley/Rockwell ...

Senior/Staff Controls Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Manteno, IL | On-site Position Overview We are seeking a highly experienced Senior/Staff PLC/Controls Engineer to take ownership of automation and control systems for our Pack & Module production ...

Showing results 41-60

PLC Controls Engineer information

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$55.5K

$92K

$124K

How much do plc controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc controls engineer in the United States is $92,027.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PLC controls engineer?

PLC Controls Engineers are professionals who design, program, and maintain programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used to automate industrial processes. They develop control systems that allow machinery and production lines to operate efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting issues, upgrading systems, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. PLC Controls Engineers often work closely with other engineers and technicians to optimize manufacturing operations.

What does a PLC controls engineer do?

As a PLC controls engineer, your primary responsibilities include the setup, programming, testing, and implementation of computer control systems used for production automation and industrial equipment design. Your duties are to implement programs on programmable logic controllers and test whether industrial computers process information and function correctly. You debug issues and troubleshoot problems that have non-standard solutions. In this role, you also assess the functionality of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems and may work in numerous fields, including aviation, robotics, energy production, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PLC Controls Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering, automation systems, and proficiency in programming PLCs, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider), HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networking is essential, and certifications like Siemens S7 or Rockwell Automation can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are critical for designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated processes to ensure efficiency and reliability in industrial environments.

What are some typical challenges a PLC controls engineer might face when working on a new automation project?

PLC Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with existing machinery, troubleshooting unexpected equipment behavior, and ensuring minimal downtime during installation or upgrades. Communication with cross-functional teams—including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production managers—is essential to align project goals and resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and keeping up with the latest PLC programming standards are common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Plc Controls Engineer vs Automation Technician?

AspectPlc Controls EngineerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Automation Engineering, PLC certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, PLC training
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems in industrial settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of automation equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, process control, automation firmsFactory floors, maintenance departments

The Plc Controls Engineer focuses on designing and programming PLC systems, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles installation and troubleshooting, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in industrial automation but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Are Plc Controls Engineers in demand?

Plc Controls Engineers are in high demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing, processing, and industrial facilities. They typically require knowledge of PLC programming, electrical systems, and control hardware, and job opportunities are expected to grow as industries continue to automate processes.

How much does a Plc Controls Engineer make?

A PLC Controls Engineer's average salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Professionals with certifications in PLC programming and automation may earn higher wages, especially in specialized or high-demand sectors.

What cities are hiring for Plc Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Plc Controls Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Plc Controls Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Plc Controls Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Plc Controls Engineer jobs?

For Plc Controls Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Plc Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Controls Engineer - PLC/CNC Automation

Source Mantra Inc

Sterling Heights, MI • On-site

$73K - $93K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Controls Engineer – PLC/CNC Automation

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to support manufacturing automation, control systems, and equipment performance improvements. The ideal candidate will have expertise in PLC programming, CNC systems, robotics, automation troubleshooting, and manufacturing control systems while collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve equipment reliability and production efficiency.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement improvements to control systems and manufacturing equipment.
  • Analyze manufacturing system data to improve equipment performance.
  • Lead troubleshooting activities to identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
  • Coordinate resources to resolve equipment performance and downtime issues.
  • Support the training of manufacturing personnel and maintenance electricians.
  • Assist with the integration of controls into manufacturing information systems.
  • Troubleshoot automation equipment, robotics, machinery, and control systems.
  • Monitor equipment cycle times using plant monitoring software.
  • Coordinate and support control system installation projects.
  • Reprogram equipment to support engineering changes and process improvements.
  • Maintain backup programs for machinery and automation systems.
  • Program new automation equipment, material handling systems, machinery, and robots.
  • Participate in equipment safety reviews and risk assessments.
Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • 5+ years of related controls engineering or automation experience.
  • Experience with PLC controllers, including Siemens, Rexroth, or Allen-Bradley.
  • Experience with PLC and CNC systems.
  • Knowledge of manufacturing software systems.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
  • Experience working with maintenance teams, vendors, and cross-functional personnel.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
  • Experience with robotics and computer vision.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies.
  • Knowledge of 8D and 5 Why problem-solving techniques.
  • Experience with Lean tools including 5S, Kanban, Poka-Yoke, and Value Stream Mapping.
  • Familiarity with UL508A and NFPA79 standards.
  • Experience programming and troubleshooting Siemens Step 7 and TIA Portal.
  • Experience with Siemens Power Line and Solution Line configuration and programming.
  • Experience troubleshooting Fanuc controls.
Experience troubleshooting CNC equipment.