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Plc Applications Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Wilder Systems

Controls Engineer II

Austin, TX · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

... PLC programming. Responsibilities Design and Product Development * Analyze requirements and ... Collaborate with Mechanical and Applications Engineers to design and develop products and tools up ...

Wilder Systems

Controls Engineer II

Austin, TX · On-site

... PLC programming. Responsibilities Design and Product Development * Analyze requirements and ... Collaborate with Mechanical and Applications Engineers to design and develop products and tools up ...

Wilder Systems

Sr. Controls Hardware Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$115 - $150/hr

... PLC programming. Responsibilities Design and Product Development * Analyze requirements and ... Collaborate with Mechanical and Applications Engineers to design and develop products and tools up ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Austin, TX

$81K - $105K/yr

... applications), and enclosure thermal management. * Conceptual PLC & Motion Control: Architect hardware for industrial controllers (PLC/PAC). While programming is not required, deeply understand ...

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All JobsPlc Applications Engineer JobsPlc Applications Engineer Jobs in Austin, TX

Plc Applications Engineer information

See Austin, TX salary details

$50.1K

$109.7K

$150.7K

How much do plc applications engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc applications engineer in Austin, TX is $109,725.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,300.00 and $133,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a PLC Applications Engineer do?

A PLC Applications Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, testing, and maintaining programmable logic controller (PLC) systems used in industrial automation. They work closely with clients and project teams to develop custom control solutions that improve manufacturing processes and equipment performance. Their tasks often include writing PLC code, configuring hardware, troubleshooting issues, and providing technical support. PLC Applications Engineers play a key role in ensuring automation systems run efficiently and reliably.

How does a PLC Applications Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

As a PLC Applications Engineer, you’ll work closely with cross-functional teams, including electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and project managers, to ensure successful integration and implementation of automation solutions. Collaboration often involves reviewing system requirements, coordinating design specifications, and troubleshooting issues during installation and commissioning. Clear communication and teamwork are essential, as you’ll frequently need to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and support field technicians during system startup. This multi-disciplinary environment provides valuable exposure to various aspects of industrial automation and fosters continuous professional growth.

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

To thrive as a PLC Applications Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, PLC programming, automation systems, and typically a degree in electrical or automation engineering. Familiarity with programmable logic controller platforms (such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider), HMI/SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like Siemens S7 or Rockwell Automation are commonly required. Excellent problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication with both technical teams and clients are essential soft skills. These competencies ensure reliable automation solutions, efficient project execution, and effective collaboration with stakeholders in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Plc Applications Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectPlc Applications EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering; certifications in PLC programming are commonRequires a degree in engineering or related field; certifications in automation systems are beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems in manufacturing or industrial settingsDeveloping and implementing automation solutions across various industries, including manufacturing and process control
Industry UsageCommonly employed in industries with heavy automation and PLC use, such as automotive, food processing, and manufacturingUsed broadly in industries requiring automation, including robotics, process industries, and factory automation

While both roles involve automation and engineering skills, a Plc Applications Engineer primarily focuses on PLC programming and system integration within industrial environments. An Automation Engineer has a broader scope, often working on entire automation systems beyond PLCs, including robotics and control systems. The roles overlap in skills and industry usage but differ in specific focus areas.

Are PLC Applications Engineers in demand?

PLC Applications Engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for automation and control system integration across manufacturing, energy, and industrial sectors. They typically require knowledge of PLC programming, troubleshooting, and relevant industry standards, making their skills highly sought after in automation projects and system upgrades.

What are popular job titles related to Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Austin, TX?

For Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Plc Applications Engineer jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Plc Applications Engineer jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Plc Applications Engineer job openings:

Plc Applications Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Applications Engineer job openings in Austin, TX as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,725 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

PLC Controls Engineer - Aerospace Manufacturing

Approach Venture LLC

Austin, TX • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Controls Engineer - Design Advanced Industrial Robotics & Automation Systems
Austin, TX | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a growing venture-backed robotics company developing advanced automation systems for aerospace and defense manufacturing. The team designs, builds, and deploys robotic production equipment that helps customers improve manufacturing quality, efficiency, and repeatability across critical industrial operations. As a Controls Engineer, you will lead the electrical and controls architecture for complex automation systems from concept through deployment. This is a hands-on engineering role responsible for electrical design, PLC programming, HMI development, hardware selection, commissioning, and system integration. You'll work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver production-ready robotic systems operating in demanding manufacturing environments.
About Us
We are an early-stage robotics company building industrial automation solutions for aerospace and defense manufacturers. Our engineering team develops complete robotic systems that combine mechanical design, electrical engineering, controls software, and system integration to solve complex manufacturing challenges. This is an opportunity to have direct technical ownership while helping shape next-generation automation platforms.
Job Duties
  • Lead the electrical and controls architecture for industrial robotic automation systems.
  • Design electrical panels, control hardware, and system wiring layouts.
  • Select electrical components, PLC hardware, HMIs, networking equipment, motors, drives, and safety systems.
  • Develop electrical schematics, one-line diagrams, block diagrams, bills of materials, and cable documentation using AutoCAD.
  • Program Siemens PLCs and HMIs using Siemens TIA Portal.
  • Configure industrial communication networks and device integration.
  • Develop motion control sequences, I/O mapping, machine logic, alarms, and fault handling.
  • Configure safety systems, motor controls, VFDs, and motion axes.
  • Design operator interfaces with user permissions, diagnostics, and production workflows.
  • Integrate robots, sensors, vision systems, and field devices into complete automation cells.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, software, and applications engineers throughout system development.
  • Support supplier selection and define technical requirements for outsourced electrical assemblies.
  • Commission equipment, perform testing, troubleshoot controls issues, and support customer deployments.
  • Create engineering documentation, operating procedures, and design review materials.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline.
  • 6+ years of professional experience in controls engineering, automation, or industrial electrical systems.
  • Strong experience designing industrial electrical control systems and panel layouts.
  • Expert-level Siemens PLC programming experience using TIA Portal.
  • Experience developing HMI applications for industrial equipment.
  • Strong understanding of industrial networking and communication protocols.
  • Proficiency creating electrical schematics and documentation in AutoCAD.
  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical and electrical drawings.
  • Solid understanding of control systems, motion control, and industrial automation.
  • Strong communication and organizational skills.
  • Comfortable working independently while collaborating across engineering disciplines.
  • U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
  • Willingness to travel up to 25%.

Preferred Experience
  • Experience developing robotic automation systems for aerospace or defense manufacturing.
  • Background supporting low-volume or high-mix manufacturing environments.
  • Experience programming industrial robots, with Fanuc experience preferred.
  • Experience with additional robot platforms such as Yaskawa.
  • Knowledge of UL and CE electrical design standards.
  • Experience integrating mechanical and electrical assemblies.
  • Manufacturing process knowledge including welding, drilling, fastening, material handling, or pick-and-place automation.
  • Experience developing engineering standards, electrical design guidelines, and PLC coding standards.

Why Join Us
  • Competitive compensation package.
  • Equity and the opportunity to influence a growing robotics company.
  • Work on cutting-edge automation systems supporting aerospace and defense customers.
  • High level of technical ownership across the full product lifecycle.
  • Collaborative engineering environment with significant exposure to multidisciplinary development.
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.

Compensation Details
$120,000 - $160,000
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