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Process Control Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ATI

Process Controls and Automation Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

ATI is seeking to hire a Process Control & Automation Engineer to support our Hot Rolling Process Facility (HRPF) in Brackenridge, Pennsylvania (suburb of Pittsburgh). Our HRPF is a $1.2B ...

Process Automation & Simulation Services, Inc.

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Process Control Consultant

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$105K - $155K/yr

Process Control Consultant (Mid-Level / Senior) About Us Process Automation & Simulation Services ... automation industry, with over 30 years of experience delivering high-quality engineering and ...

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All JobsProcess Control Automation Engineer Jobs

Process Control Automation Engineer information

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$50.5K

$107.9K

$172.5K

How much do process control automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for process control automation engineer in the United States is $107,918.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Process Control Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Process Control Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical, chemical, or mechanical engineering, along with expertise in process control principles and automation technologies. Familiarity with PLCs, DCS, SCADA systems, and relevant certifications such as ISA CAP or Siemens/Allen-Bradley training are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure reliable, efficient, and safe operation of automated processes in complex industrial environments.

What is the difference between Process Control Automation Engineer vs Instrumentation Engineer?

AspectProcess Control Automation EngineerInstrumentation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like CCNA, ISABachelor's in Engineering, certifications like ISA, Certified Control Systems Technician
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, chemical facilities, power plantsIndustrial plants, manufacturing sites, testing labs
Industry UsageDesign, programming, and maintaining control systemsInstallation, calibration, and troubleshooting of instrumentation
Common Search/ComparisonProcess Control Automation Engineer vs Instrumentation Engineer

The Process Control Automation Engineer focuses on designing and maintaining control systems that automate industrial processes, while the Instrumentation Engineer specializes in installing and calibrating measurement devices. Both roles often collaborate but serve distinct functions within industrial automation and control systems.

How much does a process automation engineer make?

A process control automation engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, or certifications may earn higher salaries. Compensation can also vary based on the complexity of automation systems and the engineer's level of expertise.

What is a Process Control Automation Engineer?

A Process Control Automation Engineer is a professional who designs, implements, and maintains systems that automate industrial processes. They use technologies such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) to increase efficiency, safety, and reliability in manufacturing or processing environments. These engineers work closely with other engineering teams to optimize processes, troubleshoot issues, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Their work is essential in industries such as chemical manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires advanced degrees and certifications. Process Control Automation Engineers rarely reach this level unless in executive or highly specialized positions with significant responsibilities.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior process control automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in control systems, and certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) can reach salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries like oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or aerospace. These roles often require advanced knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages, along with leadership responsibilities and working in complex, high-stakes environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Process Control Automation Engineers when integrating new automation systems with existing plant infrastructure?

Process Control Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment and software. These challenges can include ensuring compatibility between different protocols, minimizing downtime during system upgrades, and maintaining system security. Additionally, engineers must thoroughly test and validate the new controls to ensure seamless operation and compliance with industry standards. Effective collaboration with IT, operations, and maintenance teams is essential to address these challenges successfully.

What is process control and automation engineering?

Process control and automation engineering involves designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that automatically monitor and regulate industrial processes to ensure efficiency, safety, and quality. Professionals in this field often work with control systems such as PLCs and SCADA, and require knowledge of instrumentation, programming, and system integration. It is essential for optimizing manufacturing and production operations across various industries.
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Process Control Automation Engineer jobs near you

Process Control/Automation Engineer

Weyerhauser Co

Kalispell, MT • On-site

$98K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Weyerhaeuser Company is seeking a Process Control/Automation Engineer for our Kalispell Plywood facility. The successful candidate will be responsible for mentoring electrical staff, troubleshooting issues, planning, developing and managing projects that address site safety and operational excellence improvements. This is a key technical position in the process control department and reports directly to the Maintenance Superintendent. The successful candidate must be committed to safety, have a positive attitude, excellent work ethic, and strong leadership skills.
Key Functions:
  • Implement preventative and predictive maintenance methods and systems to reduce unscheduled downtown and utilize reliable troubleshooting methods to ensure production volume, quality, and overall reliability goals are met. Train and mentor electrical technicians with a key focus on safety.
  • Will work closely with industrial maintenance groups, including process control technicians, industrial electricians and millwrights.
  • Execute project management approach to successfully implement electrical, power, and controls projects at the Kalispell complex site.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering field preferred
  • 3+ years of experience in PLC programming, preferred experience with Allen Bradley/Rockwell
  • High level of proficiency with PLC troubleshooting, HMI programming software (such as Wonderware, FactoryTalk View SE)
  • Experience with VMware or hypervisor virtualization software
  • Ability to program and troubleshoot variable frequency drives (VFDs)
  • Experience with motion control design, implementation and troubleshooting preferred
  • Experience with medium voltage power distribution preferred
  • Experience with preventative and predictive maintenance systems and techniques
  • Ability to read and understand electrical power and control system schematics
  • Ability to identify root cause of problems and effectively initiate immediate corrective action to prevent reoccurrence
  • Experience in an industrial manufacturing environment preferred
  • Strong planning and organization skills
  • Experience with SAP or other CMMS program
  • Proficient computer skills in MS Office, other windows-based programs, and internet skills
  • Excellent communication skills and interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively at all levels in the organization
  • Strong work ethic, good judgement and decision-making skills
  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, when necessary and ability to accept calls during non-business hours
  • Resume and cover letter detailing education and work history required for consideration.
About Weyerhaeuser
We sustainably manage forests and manufacture products that make the world a better place. We're serious about safety, driven to achieve excellence, and proud of what we do. With multiple business lines in locations across North America, we offer a range of exciting career opportunities for smart, talented people who are passionate about making a difference.
We know you have a choice in your career. We want you to choose us.
About Wood Products
We've been delivering quality building products and solutions to our customers for more than 100 years. From builders and dealers to specifiers and homeowners, we offer exceptional product performance and unparalleled support.
For more than a century, we've been building our reputation as a leader in sustainable wood products.
What We Offer:
Compensation: This role is eligible for our annual merit-increase program, and we are targeting a salary range of $98,800-$148,200 based on your level of skills, qualifications and experience. You will also be eligible for our Annual Incentive Program, which offers a cash bonus targeting 10% of base pay. Potential plan funding may range from zero to two times that target.
Benefits: When you join our team, you and your dependents will be offered coverage under our comprehensive employee benefits plan, which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, and life insurance. We offer a pre-tax Health Savings Account option which includes a company contribution. Other benefit options are also available such as voluntary Long-Term Care and Employee Assistance Programs. We also support personal volunteerism, sponsor a host of diversity networks, promote mentoring, and provide training and development opportunities to help you chart your path to a fulfilling career.
Retirement: Employees are able to enroll in our company's 401k plan, which includes a paid company match in addition to our annual contribution equal to 5% of your base salary.
Paid Time Off or Vacation: We provide eligible employees who are scheduled to work 25 hours or more per week with 3-weeks of paid vacation to use during your first year of employment. In addition, after being employed for six months, eligible employees begin to accrue vacation for future use. We also recognize eleven paid holidays per year, providing a total of 88 holiday hours and paid parental leave for all full-time employees.
Weyerhaeuser is an equal opportunity employer. Inclusion is one of our five core values and we strive to maintain a culture where all our people feel a sense of belonging, opportunity and shared purpose. We are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and supporting an equitable and inclusive environment that inspires people of all backgrounds to join, stay and thrive with our team.
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