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Terminal Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Develop configurations for Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) - (SEL RTAC, Novatech OrionLX, SMP Gateway, GE-D20, etc.) * Develop configurations for programmable automation controllers (PACs) - (SEL-2440 ...

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Terminal Automation Engineer information

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$37K

$107.1K

$163K

How much do terminal automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for terminal automation engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a terminal automation engineer?

Terminal Automation Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems in transportation, shipping, or industrial terminals. They work with technologies such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, robotics, and software to streamline terminal operations, improve efficiency, and ensure safety. Their tasks often include integrating new automation solutions, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineering teams to optimize workflows. Terminal Automation Engineers are vital in industries like oil and gas, shipping ports, and logistics hubs where automation can greatly enhance throughput and reliability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a terminal automation engineer?

To thrive as a Terminal Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and process control, often supported by a relevant degree and industry experience. Familiarity with DCS, PLC/SCADA programming, industrial networking, and certifications such as ISA or Siemens are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated terminal systems critical to industrial and logistics operations.

What are some typical projects a terminal automation engineer works on, and how do they collaborate with other teams?

Terminal Automation Engineers often work on projects such as upgrading control systems, integrating new software for loading and unloading operations, and implementing safety protocols for automated equipment. They collaborate closely with operations, IT, and maintenance teams to ensure that automation solutions align with terminal processes and safety standards. Effective communication and cross-functional teamwork are essential, as engineers must balance technical requirements with operational needs to deliver reliable and efficient solutions.

What is the difference between Terminal Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectTerminal Automation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
CertificationsPLC, SCADA, automation certificationsPLC, SCADA, automation certifications
Work EnvironmentOil & gas, petrochemical, manufacturing facilitiesIndustrial plants, manufacturing, process industries
Industry UsageCommon in terminal operations, logistics, and bulk handlingBroader in industrial automation and process control

The Terminal Automation Engineer focuses on automating terminal operations like loading, unloading, and logistics management, primarily in oil, gas, and petrochemical industries. Control Systems Engineers design and implement control systems across various industrial sectors, including manufacturing and process industries. While both roles require similar certifications and work in industrial environments, Terminal Automation Engineers specialize in terminal-specific automation systems, whereas Control Systems Engineers have a broader scope across multiple industries.

More about Terminal Automation Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Terminal Automation Engineer jobs?

For Terminal Automation Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Terminal Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,126 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

SCADA & Automation Engineer 3 - Grid

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

Sargent & Lundy
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

SCADA & Automation Engineers design, program, and integrate SCADA systems for utility, industrial, and renewable clients. As a SCADA & Automation Engineer in our Grid business unit you will:

  • Engage in fast-paced client projects to plan, engineer, & design SCADA and communications systems.
  • Develop communication block diagrams, panel layout/bill of material drawings, SCADA AC & DC schematics, fiber detail drawings, & network drawings.
  • Provide reviews/design input of P&C drawings for SCADA system requirements.
  • Develop points lists for data transferred between RTUs, IEDs, and master station connections.
  • Develop configurations for Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) - (SEL RTAC, Novatech OrionLX, SMP Gateway, GE-D20, etc.)
  • Develop configurations for programmable automation controllers (PACs) – (SEL-2440/2411, etc.)
  • Program Human Machine Interface (HMI) applications (SEL Diagram Builder, Inkscape, Wonderware, etc.)
  • Coordinate with relay settings engineers to develop/review communication port settings for protection relays, meters, & other IEDs.
  • Develop network device configurations for switches, routers, & firewalls. (Cisco, Siemens Ruggedcomm, SEL, etc.)
  • Perform troubleshooting of SCADA system network & communication systems (DNP, Modbus, SEL Protocol, IEC 61850, TCP/IP, UDP) remotely and onsite (if required).
  • Develop SCADA system and Network documentation for projects.
  • Develop automation tools to improve project efficiency (python, etc.)
  • Stage, configure & test integrated systems designs, for interoperability & performance consistent with predictive models in our Protection, Automation & Telecommunication Laboratory.
  • Ensure strict adherence to NERC standards for Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP).
  • Coordinate and provide guidance to other engineers, project managers, client personnel, and suppliers to ensure a complete and timely design.
  • Develop your career via peer-learning through sharing of knowledge with other experienced engineers by way of Sargent & Lundy’s systems of process and associated “Communities of Practice.”
  • Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced engineers.
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices as needed.

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.

Dependent upon your location, this opportunity offers a generous relocation package.


We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical, electronic, or computer systems engineering
  • 3 years of experience in design, configuration, implementation, and troubleshooting of substation SCADA and communication systems.
  • Experience with SEL, Novatech, & GE RTUs and software.
  • Basic understanding of LAN/WAN devices and topology.
  • Knowledge of DNP, Modbus, SEL, IEC-61850 (MMS/Goose) protocols – serial & IP based.
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications.
  • Ability & willingness to travel up to 20%.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) License.
  • Experience with communication troubleshooting software/hardware (ASE Test Set, Wireshark, etc.)
  • Protective relay settings experience (SEL, GE, ABB etc.)
  • Network design credentials
  • Well versed in use of MS Project & Visio.
  • Familiar with NERC Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards & Cyber-Security.

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$74,353 - $113,595
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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