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Plant Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI

$75K - $97K/yr

The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and troubleshooting the control systems essential to production processes within the manufacturing facility. This position ...

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Overview The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and troubleshooting the control systems essential to production processes within the manufacturing facility. This ...

Controls Engineer

Redford, MI · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Overview The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and troubleshooting the control systems essential to production processes within the manufacturing facility. This ...

Sr Engineer II, Plant Controls

Chicago, IL

$100K - $132K/yr

Engineering Remuneration: Exempt The Plant Controls Team within RWE Americas ensures control solutions for utility-scale renewables projects (Solar, Wind, and Battery) are designed with the highest ...

Sr Engineer II, Plant Controls

Austin, TX

$96K - $126K/yr

Engineering Remuneration: Exempt The Plant Controls Team within RWE Americas ensures control solutions for utility-scale renewables projects (Solar, Wind, and Battery) are designed with the highest ...

Sr Engineer II, Plant Controls

Austin, TX · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Engineering Remuneration: Exempt The Plant Controls Team within RWE Americas ensures control solutions for utility-scale renewables projects (Solar, Wind, and Battery) are designed with the highest ...

Engineering Remuneration: Exempt The Plant Controls Team within RWE Americas ensures control solutions for utility-scale renewables projects (Solar, Wind, and Battery) are designed with the highest ...

As the Senior Controls Engineer/Project Manager, you'll drive continuous improvement projects ... plant running safely and efficiently. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the ...

Controls Engineer

Archbold, OH · On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

Engineering Manager Role Overview We are seeking a Controls Engineer to join our Archibald, Ohio plant, a key supplier of brake and gas line tubing. This role is focused on strengthening internal ...

As the Senior Controls Engineer/Project Manager, you'll drive continuous improvement projects ... plant running safely and efficiently. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the ...

Controls Engineer

El Dorado Springs, MO · On-site

$73K - $94K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Automation & Controls Engineering Manager to lead and support plant-wide operational technology (OT), automation, controls, and electrical infrastructure within a ...

The position supports plant controls activities and project work for at least 12 months, with a focus on PLC programming, troubleshooting, and optimization of industrial automation systems.

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Plant Controls Engineer information

See salary details

$65K

$91.8K

$115.5K

How much do plant controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant controls engineer in the United States is $91,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Plant Controls Engineer typically collaborate with production and maintenance teams to ensure smooth operations?

Plant Controls Engineers work closely with both production and maintenance teams to troubleshoot equipment issues, optimize control systems, and implement process improvements. Regular communication is essential, as engineers often need to translate technical requirements into practical solutions that support operational goals. They may also provide training or guidance on new control technologies and participate in cross-functional meetings to coordinate system upgrades or maintenance schedules. This collaborative environment helps maintain high levels of productivity and minimizes downtime in the plant.

What is the difference between Plant Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectPlant Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, control systems, or related engineering fields; certifications like PE or control system certifications are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation environmentsPower plants, manufacturing, design firms, consulting
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, process industries, automation projectsUsed across power, manufacturing, consulting, and design sectors

While both roles require electrical knowledge and work in industrial settings, Plant Controls Engineers focus on automation systems, control logic, and plant-specific control solutions, whereas Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems, circuit design, and electrical infrastructure. The roles often overlap but differ in specialization and daily tasks.

What are Plant Controls Engineers?

Plant Controls Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining the automated control systems used in manufacturing or processing plants. They work with hardware and software to ensure machinery and processes run efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their duties often include programming programmable logic controllers (PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize plant operations. Plant Controls Engineers play a key role in improving productivity and minimizing downtime in industrial environments.

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

To thrive as a Plant Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or control systems engineering, typically with a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and relevant certifications like ISA CAP are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills ensure efficient automation, minimal downtime, and safe, reliable plant operations.
More about Plant Controls Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Plant Controls Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Plant Controls Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Plant Controls Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Plant Controls Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plant Controls Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plant Controls Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Plant Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,787 per year, or $44.1 per hour.
Controls Engineer

$75K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Piston Automotive rating

2.6

Company rating: 2.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The Plant Controls Engineer plays a crucial role in maintaining, optimizing, and troubleshooting the control systems essential to production processes within the manufacturing facility. This position involves supporting and improving existing control systems to ensure optimal production efficiency and safety. The plant Controls Engineer provides expertise for the maintenance of ongoing production processes, including the implementation and documentation of required process changes to support continuous improvement and product changes. The Controls Engineer assists in optimizing tooling design and automation processes to prevent or minimize production downtime. You should be self-motivated and able to work with minimal direction, make decisions independently, and able to motivate others to complete the task at hand.  Hours:  2nd Shift - 5:30pm-2:00am Monday - Friday.  30 minute lunch.  

Piston Automotive wasn’t just founded to make things. It was founded to make things better. And that begins with building better teams solely dedicated to achieving excellence at every level of execution through a combination of experience, expertise, and a deep seeded passion for what we do. Our assemblies consistently set the standard because our people consistently raise the bar.

Why Piston Automotive?

Competitive Wages, Paid Holidays & Vacation, Medical & Rx Plans, Dental & Vision Plans, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Employee Assistance Program, Life & Disability Coverage, 401K with Company Match, Tuition Reimbursement , Vehicle and Product Discounts

 


  • Analyze and optimize machine performance using PLC data
  • Lead root cause analysis for systemic and intermittent issues
  • Selection and integration of error and mistake proofing devices to address quality concerns
  • Understand and maintain machine Ethernet networks
  • Conduct regular audits on safety control programs and devices
  • Plan, coordinate, and implement assigned projects
  • Interface with automation and capital equipment vendors
  • During new equipment launches responsible for transferring all equipment and process documentation to the production plant prior to SOP. This includes all OEM equipment documentation (electronic and hard copies of manuals, BOM, drawings, recommended spare parts and recommended PM’s).
  • Lead activities in new product/process manufacturing and recommend improvements
  • Develop preventive maintenance programs in collaboration with plant management
  • Support controls-related issues to minimize production downtime
  • Guide maintenance technicians to develop skillsets and strengthen the team
  • Ensure peak efficiency and safety of all manufacturing machinery and equipment
  • Assist in installation and maintenance of machines and tools
  • Analyze equipment requirements and assist in requisition of tools and spare parts
  • Identify and recommend efficiency improvements to reduce costs
  • Other duties as assigned

  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Programming, or a related field. Relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Minimum of 2 years as a Controls Engineer or Maintenance Technician.
  • Experience with maintaining robots in production processes
  • Experience in JIT, SPD, ILVS and Batch manufacturing systems.
  • Strong knowledge of Manual and Automated Assembly Systems and Technologies, including both mechanical and control systems.
  • Technical experience required with Microsoft Word, Excel, Project, Power Point, AutoCAD, Studio 5000 Logix Designer, FactoryTalk View Studio
  • Controls Technical proficiency requirement:
  • PLC Programming (2-4 years): Allen Bradley ControlLogix 5000 processors
  • Vision Systems Programming (2-4 years): Cognex, Keyence
  • HMI Programming (2-4 years): FactoryTalk View Studio, PanelView Plus
  • Robot Programming: Touchup paths and troubleshoot stoppages

Piston Automotive, part of the Piston Group family of companies, is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace that values the unique contributions of every employee. We encourage all candidates to apply for positions that match their skills and capabilities, ensuring equal consideration without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. For any questions regarding job opportunities or the application process, please reach out to us at pistongrouptalent@pistongroup.com. We are committed to providing accommodations for individuals with disabilities during the job search and application process, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity for all job seekers.


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