ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Process Control Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

Process Automation Engineer - Columbus, NE This is a full time, exempt position The Process Automation Engineer will provide support for the industrial control systems across the ADM Columbus campus ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Process Automation Engineer - Decatur, IL This is a full time, exempt position The Process Automation Engineer will provide support for the industrial control systems across the ADM Decatur complex ...

Nucor

NSBC - Level II Automation Engineer

Huger, SC

$90K/yr

Industrial process control/automation equipment upgrade experience * Experience working in a heavy industrial environment * Working knowledge of computer administration (e.g. Windows, Linux)

Rinvio

Process Control Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$55 - $80/hr

Rinvio is hiring a Process Control Engineer for process controls, PLC systems, and industrial automation engineering in the Davenport, IA area. Pay: $55-$80/hour, based on experience Location:

Nucor

NSBC - Level II Automation Engineer

Huger, SC · On-site

$90K/yr

Industrial process control/automation equipment upgrade experience * Experience working in a heavy industrial environment * Working knowledge of computer administration (e.g. Windows, Linux)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProcess Control Automation Engineer Jobs

Process Control Automation Engineer information

See salary details

$50.5K

$107.9K

$172.5K

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

As of Jul 11, 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.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most process control automation engineers earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, highly specialized or senior-level engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in large organizations can potentially earn $500,000 or more per year. Such high salaries are rare and typically involve executive responsibilities, profit sharing, or working in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or pharmaceuticals with complex automation systems.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Process Control Automation Engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries such as oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, or manufacturing. Senior engineers with specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and automation software typically reach this salary level.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior process control automation engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks, and often certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) can reach salaries of $300,000 or more annually. These roles typically involve managing complex automation systems in large manufacturing or energy facilities and may include leadership responsibilities or project management duties.

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, applying principles of control theory and programming skills to optimize operations in manufacturing, chemical, or energy industries.
More about Process Control Automation Engineer jobs
What states have the most Process Control Automation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Process Control Automation Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Process Control Automation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Process Control Automation Engineer jobs are:
Process Control Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Process Control Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,918 per year, or $51.9 per hour.
Sr. Engineer - Process Automation HNO

Sr. Engineer - Process Automation HNO

TPC Group

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
We are seeking a skilled Senior Process Automation Engineer to join our team. This individual will be an integral member of the Process Automation Department within the Technology and Sustainability Group, responsible for implementing process control strategies, automated programming, and processes that will facilitate the successful execution of TPC Group's strategic growth initiatives. Reporting to the Manager of Process Automation, the engineer will be tasked with designing, developing, implementing, and maintaining automation systems to optimize production processes and ensure operational efficiency. The Process Automation Engineer will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to identify automation opportunities, resolve issues, and foster continuous improvements in our plant operations.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Design and implement process control strategies, including regulatory control, control sequence, logic, and advanced control.
  • Collaborate with production engineers, operations, and maintenance teams to identify automation needs and requirements.
  • Configure and program Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMI), and other control systems.
  • Conduct system integration, testing, and commissioning of automation solutions.
  • Perform troubleshooting, diagnosis, and resolution of automation system issues to ensure uninterrupted plant operations.
  • Regularly review and improve alarm management systems (alarm rationalization).
  • Participate in and represent process automation in HAZOP and other safety and reliability processes and studies.
  • Participate in PHAs, PSSRs, incident investigations, and unit troubleshooting.
  • Provide automation engineering in the specification, design, development, installation, commissioning, and validation of process control systems for capital projects.
  • Provide training and support to plant personnel on the operation and maintenance of automation systems.
  • Adhere to safety, environmental, and regulatory standards in all automation activities.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
  • Minimum 5 years of industry experience
  • Proven experience working as a Process Automation Engineer in the petrochemical, oil and gas industry, or a similar manufacturing environment
  • Strong knowledge of process control systems, instrumentation, and industrial automation technologies
  • Hands-on experience with DCS, PLC, SCADA systems, and other automation software and hardware
  • Familiarity with industry standards and protocols like OPC, Modbus, Profibus, etc.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or in a team environment
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders
  • Prior experience with HAZOP studies, SIL assessments, and process safety management is a plus
  • Certification in relevant automation technologies or systems is desirable

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Emerson DeltaV DCS/SIS experience is preferred.
  • Experience with networking and understanding of cyber security is a plus
  • Able to design and implement basic and advanced control schemes as well as complex sequence logic
  • Experience with Advanced Process Control Strategies. Aspen DMC3 is a plus

All applicants must be eligible to work for any employer in the United States without needing any company sponsorship
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply