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Plc Controls Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

LT Staffing Inc

Controls Engineer

Providence, RI

$84K - $109K/yr

PLC/HMI Development: Design and program complex logic for platforms such as Allen-Bradley/Rockwell ... Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related ...

Teknor Apex

Controls Systems Engineer II

Pawtucket, RI

$81K - $105K/yr

PLC 5, SLC and Control Logix. * Solidworks Electrical * HMI design, preferably with FactoryTalk and ... Understanding of: * plant power distribution equipment and controls. * project engineering/project ...

Teknor Apex Company

Controls Systems Engineer II

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

PLC 5, SLC and Control Logix. * Solidworks Electrical * HMI design, preferably with FactoryTalk and ... Understanding of: * plant power distribution equipment and controls. * project engineering/project ...

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Overview As an HVAC Controls Systems Engineer, you will design, configure, and support ... Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action ...

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Lincoln, RI · On-site

$78K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Overview As an HVAC Controls Systems Engineer, you will design, configure, and support ... Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action ...

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Engineer

Cranston, RI · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Role Overview As an HVAC Controls Systems Engineer, you will design, configure, and support ... Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action ...

Johnson Controls

Instrumentation Engineer

Cranston, RI · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Instrumentation Engineer will support experimental development by setting up, configuring, and ... Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action ...

Johnson Controls

Instrumentation Engineer

Cranston, RI · On-site

$72K - $94K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Instrumentation Engineer will support experimental development by setting up, configuring, and ... Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action ...

Lucas Milhaupt

Maintenance Electrician

Warwick, RI

$28 - $36/hr

Use and maintenance of all test equipment, instruments, measuring devices and controls. * Assist engineering with design of new equipment controls, PLC controls, building electrical systems and power ...

Lucas Milhaupt

Maintenance Electrician

Warwick, RI · On-site

$28 - $36/hr

Use and maintenance of all test equipment, instruments, measuring devices and controls. * Assist engineering with design of new equipment controls, PLC controls, building electrical systems and power ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPlc Controls Engineer JobsPlc Controls Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Plc Controls Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$54.4K

$90.1K

$121.4K

How much do plc controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc controls engineer in Rhode Island is $90,123.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $97,900.00 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.

How much does a Plc Controls Engineer earn?

A PLC Controls Engineer's average salary typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized engineers with certifications and extensive skills in PLC programming and automation may earn higher salaries. Compensation can also include benefits such as overtime, bonuses, and professional development opportunities.

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 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.

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.
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Plc Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Controls Engineer job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,123 per year, or $43.3 per hour.

Controls Engineer

LT Staffing Inc

Providence, RI

$84K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

                                                                                                   Local candidates only, no relocation offered

A Controls Engineer in this role serves as the technical lead for the entire lifecycle of industrial automation projects, from initial concept and design through PLC programming, installation, and final site commissioning.
Job Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to take full ownership of production equipment projects. You will be responsible for designing electrical control systems, developing sophisticated PLC and HMI software, and managing the physical installation and startup of automated machinery. This is a "cradle-to-grave" project role requiring both high-level engineering design and hands-on field expertise.
Key Responsibilities
  • Project Design & Documentation: Create detailed electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control panel layouts using CAD software like AutoCAD. Specify all control hardware including PLCs, sensors, and safety components.
  • PLC/HMI Development: Design and program complex logic for platforms such as Allen-Bradley/Rockwell or Siemens. Develop intuitive HMI/SCADA interfaces for equipment operation and monitoring.
  • End-to-End Project Management: Manage timelines, budgets, and vendors from the initial proposal phase through installation.
  • Installation & Commissioning: Lead on-site installation efforts, overseeing electrical contractors to ensure systems are wired correctly. Conduct Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
  • Troubleshooting & Support: Debug software and hardware issues during the startup phase. Provide technical training to maintenance and operations teams once equipment is live.
Required Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Technical Proficiency:
    • 3-5+ years of experience in industrial automation and project management.
    • Expert-level knowledge of PLC programming languages like Ladder Logic, Structured Text, or Function Block.
    • Deep understanding of industrial networking protocols such as EtherNet/IP, Profinet, and Modbus.
  • Physical & Travel: Ability to travel to production sites for installation and commissioning (up to 30-50% depending on project phase).
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with motion control (servos/VFDs) and robotic integration (e.g., FANUC or ABB).
  • Knowledge of industry safety standards such as OSHA and NFPA 70E.

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