AUTOMATION CONTROLS ENGINEER JOB DESCRIPTION
Browse automation controls engineer job descriptions featuring responsibilities, required skills, and qualifications from regulated and high-volume manufacturing environments.

Automation Controls Engineer Job Description Template
1. About the Role
An Automation Controls Engineer owns the full technical scope of a manufacturing plant's control systems - from PLC logic and HMI architecture to commissioning and qualification. Not a support function. This role defines the standard every automated line is measured against, and holds direct accountability when equipment reliability falls short of production targets. In GMP-regulated environments such as pharmaceutical or biotech manufacturing, that accountability extends to IQ/OQ/PQ validation protocols and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, where documentation gaps carry regulatory consequences.
2. Position Summary
As the Automation Controls Engineer, you will lead control system design, programming, and continuous improvement for automated manufacturing equipment across regulated production environments, directly influencing line uptime and qualification outcomes. You will operate as the resident technical authority on controls, partnering with production, maintenance, and capital engineering teams while reporting to a plant or engineering manager.
3. Why Join Us
Career Impact: Deep hands-on ownership of GMP-compliant control systems - spanning PLC programming through FAT/SAT validation - builds the kind of regulated-industry credibility that commands senior engineering and lead controls roles.
Business Impact: When automated lines go down in high-volume manufacturing, every idle hour has a measurable cost; this role is the technical resource that restores uptime and prevents recurrence through permanent corrective action.
Growth Opportunity: Sustained exposure to capital project leadership, vendor qualification, and multi-site standards development puts the next step - Lead Controls Engineer or Automation Engineering Manager - within a clear and near-term reach.
4. Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop PLC, HMI, and SCADA control programs for new and existing automated manufacturing equipment.
- Commission automated systems through Factory Acceptance Testing and Site Acceptance Testing to verify performance against specifications.
- Lead controls-related workstreams within capital projects, coordinating resources from scoping through installation and handover.
- Implement and maintain control system standards across manufacturing facilities to ensure consistency and regulatory compliance.
- Troubleshoot complex automated system failures to identify root cause and implement permanent corrective solutions.
- Validate control systems in accordance with IQ/OQ/PQ protocols and applicable regulatory requirements including 21 CFR Part 11.
- Mentor junior engineers and technicians on programming logic, troubleshooting methodology, and documentation standards.
- Prepare technical documentation including control narratives, I/O lists, loop diagrams, and training materials for operations and maintenance teams.
5. Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechatronic, or Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent work experience.
- 4 or more years of controls automation experience in a manufacturing environment, with demonstrated PLC and HMI programming proficiency.
- Working knowledge of GMP requirements, validation frameworks, and regulatory standards applicable to automated production systems.
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&ID drawings, control panel drawings, and instrument loop diagrams.
- Competency in industrial network configuration and troubleshooting across common communication protocols.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose automated system faults and resolve them systematically.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills for cross-functional coordination with production, maintenance, and engineering stakeholders.
- Ability to work flexible schedules including off-shift and weekend coverage as operational needs require.
6. Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with motion control systems and industrial robotics programming in a production environment.
- Familiarity with IQ/OQ/PQ validation processes and 21 CFR Part 11 documentation requirements in a regulated manufacturing setting.
- Background in capital project management including scoping, procurement, and contractor supervision.
- Prior exposure to Lean manufacturing principles such as Standard Work, 5S, or continuous improvement methodologies.
7. Success Metrics & Environment
- Equipment uptime rate, measuring how reliably automated lines perform against scheduled production hours.
- Time to root-cause resolution for automated system failures, reflecting diagnostic depth and corrective action speed.
- FAT/SAT completion rate on schedule, measuring commissioning execution against capital project milestones.
- IQ/OQ/PQ documentation accuracy rate, reflecting compliance with validation protocol requirements.
- Number of control system deviations or repeat failures per quarter, indicating effectiveness of permanent corrective actions.
- Typical tools: PLC/SCADA platforms (commonly Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens TIA Portal); HMI development environments (commonly Ignition, FactoryTalk View).
8. Compensation & Benefits (US Market Benchmark)
- Base Salary Range: $85,000 to $115,000 per year depending on experience and location.
- Bonus: Annual performance bonus typically 5% to 10% of base salary.
- Equity: Uncommon at this level; offered selectively at growth-stage manufacturers.
- Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; employer contributions vary by company size.
- PTO: 15 to 20 days annually plus standard US federal holidays.
- Common Perks: Tuition reimbursement, professional certification support, on-site safety training programs.
Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.
9. EEO & Legal
Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process upon request. Employment offers are contingent on successful completion of a background check. All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
Automation Controls Engineer Job Description Examples
1. Automation & Controls Engineer (GMP Manufacturing Controls)
The Automation & Controls Engineer owns the planning, execution, and standards-setting for automation and controls capital projects spanning scoping through commissioning within a regulated manufacturing environment, partnering with the Capital Engineering team and third-party vendors to deliver compliant, fully qualified control systems. Reporting to the Engineering Department, this role shapes technology roadmaps for process and packaging equipment while ensuring all controls work meets GMP, IQ/OQ/PQ, and 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, plan and execute automation and controls capital projects through the entire project lifecycle (scoping, design, procurement, construction, installation, and commissioning).
- Lead the automation and controls workstream in capital projects led by the Capital Engineering team.
- Support projects through Commissioning, Qualification, and Verification and ensure all automation and controls project deliverables are achieved.
- Contribute to the definition, implementation and maintenance of standards for the process & control systems across all Thermo Fisher Scientific manufacturing facilities.
- Prepare drawings and specifications, process control narratives, instrument lists, loop diagrams and I/O lists.
- Review, analyze and revise existing programs as required for PLC/SCADA Programming; create new reports and modify existing reports as required.
- Offer escalation support for the Maintenance Equipment Services Team to provide technical support post-equipment installation, including regular, off-shift and weekend coverage.
- Prepare training manuals and deliver technical training to Operations and Maintenance team members for new systems.
- Assist in developing and documenting engineering controls procedures; gather and analyze data to support Continuous Improvement (PPI) and Capital Projects.
- Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) at OEM facilities and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) at Thermo Fisher Scientific facilities.
- Ensure all equipment and work complies with governing laws, practices, codes, and regulations; contribute to technology roadmaps for process and packaging equipment.
- Ensure third-party vendors and contractors receive safety instructions and work in compliance with health and safety legislation and company programs.
- Mentor and coach other team members within the Engineering Department.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechatronics, or Industrial Automation/Instrumentation preferred); Professional Engineer Designation is an asset.
- Kepware OPC, PlantPAx DCS, and Ignition SCADA software certifications are an asset.
- Minimum 4 years of experience in controls automation in a GMP and/or regulated environment; project management experience and network communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, BacNet, DeviceNet) experience are assets.
- Proficiency in GMP systems and understanding of Validation & IQ/OQ/PQ program, 21 CFR Part 11.
- Ability to read and interpret technical periodicals, electrical schematics, process & instrumentation drawings, control panel drawings, and government regulations.
- Skilled in PLC/VFDs/HMI Programming, industrial networks configuration/troubleshooting, MySQL, and MSSQL; knowledge of Motion Control (Allen-Bradley, Mitsubishi) and Robot Programming (Fanuc, ABB) is an asset.
- Proficient in AutoCAD and MS applications (Project, Word, Excel).
- Strong judgment, decision-making, troubleshooting, and organizational skills with excellent verbal and written communication.
- Proficiency in English language.
- Travel within local Thermo Fisher Scientific sites and internationally to supplier locations and trade shows may be required (up to 15%).
2. Automation & Controls Engineer (Custom Automation Product Development)
Embedded within a product-focused engineering team, the Automation & Controls Engineer builds and refines automated manufacturing systems from earliest concept through release, leading technical development programs and directing junior engineers and technicians across design, prototyping, qualification, and documentation. Working closely with project teams and external contractors, this role delivers permanent corrective solutions to complex automation issues while driving manufacturability and cost improvements for new and existing products.
Core Functions
- Design and manufacture automated manufacturing and control systems.
- Design, prototype, commission, troubleshoot and continuously improve equipment for new or existing product programs.
- Assemble, test, and troubleshoot automated manufacturing equipment.
- Act as Technical Lead and support Technical Leadership when working with external contractors on automation projects.
- Direct and mentor more junior engineers and technicians in support of given programs.
- Lead as thought leader on assigned development programs, considering all technical aspects required to bring programs to commercial success.
- Conceive, design, and develop new products and processes through engineering analysis, prototyping, risk assessment, and qualification testing from concept to release.
- Design and verify tools, gauges, and equipment needed for new product or customer product programs; manufacture and verify initial part prototypes.
- Support qualification processes leading to release to manufacturing; design and lead experiments to resolve design questions.
- Evaluate, document, and implement design or process changes to improve performance, manufacturability, safety, and/or cost of existing products.
- Troubleshoot complex automation system issues to discover root cause and implement permanent solutions.
- Create manufacturing documentation for new products and processes.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology (Mechanical Engineering preferred).
- At least 5–7 years of demonstrated engineering experience; experience with CNC/manual machining desired but not required.
- Knowledge of machine design, electrical design, common manufacturing practices, and plastic part fabrication techniques (thermoforming particularly valuable); knowledge of drawing standards (geometric tolerancing, etc.).
- Specification of automation hardware/software; control system design; PLC and HMI programming and Robotics.
- Proficient in SolidWorks or other 3D CAD software; proficient computer skills in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint; documentation systems including change orders, specs, quality systems, and ISO requirements.
- Air and motor vehicle travel (US or internationally) when required (<5% of time).
- Able to lift 30 lbs., ascend/descend ladders/stairs, work in high heat/humidity above 90°F for several hours, and sit for extended periods.
- Must be able to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and pass a criminal background check.
3. Automation Controls Engineer (Assembly Line Design & Deployment)
Reporting to plant engineering leadership, the Automation Controls Engineer shapes assembly line architecture and deploys automated equipment in collaboration with external suppliers, integrating systems into digital manufacturing execution platforms across global production sites. Partnering with cross-functional teams spanning design, purchasing, quality, and operations, this role advances continuous improvement and maintains current knowledge of equipment technologies to develop innovative automation solutions.
Primary Duties
- Create assembly line architecture and specifications.
- Create automated equipment/machine specifications.
- Work with external suppliers to design and deploy assembly lines, including automated equipment.
- Interpret mechanical design drawings for electrical controls requirements (Creo).
- Develop PLC and HMI programs for automated equipment.
- Integrate machines and assembly lines into MIS and plants' digital manufacturing execution systems.
- Plan and provide detailed training on equipment design, maintenance, and troubleshooting to various customer skill levels.
- Support existing equipment designs and production issues both locally and at various global sites.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of equipment technologies and utilize this knowledge to specify and develop innovative solutions.
- Utilize continuous improvement methodology to improve internal industrial processes.
Skills & Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Computer, or Mechatronic Engineering or equivalent from an accredited university.
- 5+ years of experience in assembly line design and deployment, automation industry, or high-volume manufacturing environment preferred.
- PLC programming including configuring and designing HMI systems; familiar with vision systems (Cognex, Keyence) and Motion & Robotic Systems (FANUC, ABB).
- Knowledge of communication protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, CAN, Profibus, etc.) and experience with electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems.
- Basic understanding of UL61010-1 Standard, NFPA 79, and National Electric Code.
- Proven ability to work independently in a multicultural virtual environment across various functions; ability to influence and convince through negotiation.
- Strong communication skills in English (written and verbal); motivated self-starter able to manage multiple projects in parallel.
- Facilitator to drive problem solving and troubleshooting activities.
4. Automation and Controls Engineer (Pharmaceutical Plant Automation)
Sitting at the intersection of production, maintenance, and engineering, the Automation and Controls Engineer leads controls-related work and continuous improvement initiatives across a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant, serving as the technical subject matter expert on PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems for the facility. Operating across production, engineering, and maintenance teams with minimal guidance, this role manages project timelines and budgets while ensuring equipment reliability and aseptic manufacturing compliance including Cleanroom Grade A/B qualification.
Duties
- Provide leadership and support to the plant's production, engineering, and maintenance teams.
- Coordinate resources and activities for all controls-related work at the plant.
- Act as the technical link between production, maintenance, and engineering as the subject matter expert on controls and automation.
- Lead a continuous improvement initiative to identify and implement changes to increase equipment reliability, mitigate errors, simplify processes, and improve plant performance.
- Develop and apply innovative and creative methods to solve routine and chronic issues.
- Perform PLC code and HMI development; troubleshoot automated systems with strong technical expertise.
- Manage project timelines and budgets with the ability to multitask and prioritize with minimal guidance.
- Promote a team culture by supporting the work of other engineers and departments.
Education & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering.
- 1–3 years of automation experience with PLC/HMI/SCADA programming and instrumentation (primarily Allen Bradley & Siemens with ladder logic, block, and structured text); project management experience preferred.
- Pharmaceutical experience including aseptic manufacturing preferred.
- Prior experience in Lean principles, VIPs, Standard Work, and 5S/6S preferred.
- Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; ability to use enterprise software (JDE, BPLM, Pilgrim, Trackwise, etc.).
- Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.; duties require occasional overtime including nights and weekends.
- Position requires sitting or standing for long hours.
- Must be able to gown qualify for Cleanroom Grade A/B areas.
5. Automation Controls Engineer (Custom Machinery & Controls Systems)
A key member of the project engineering team, the Automation Controls Engineer delivers complete electrical and controls systems for complex custom automation machinery, collaborating with project managers during design reviews to develop cost-effective specifications and commissioning plans. Collaborating across electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and robotics disciplines, this role produces detailed design schedules and programs that meet both customer delivery objectives and budget targets.
Functions
- Design, program, and deliver complete electrical and controls systems for complex custom automation systems.
- Design and program reliable and efficient custom automation systems at lowest cost while meeting delivery objectives.
- Assist the project manager during design review meetings to discuss specifications and cost-effective, time-saving design concepts.
- Create and submit detailed electrical and controls system design schedules to the project manager for each project.
- Develop comprehensive controls design for electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, welding, lubrication, safety, and robotics systems.
- Program and commission custom automation systems.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
- More than 5 years of electrical and controls engineering experience in a custom automation systems or custom machinery setting; experience with customers, suppliers, and system commissioning.
- Familiarity with controls systems design in welding, pneumatic, hydraulic, robotic, and/or assembly processes is a plus.
- Strong familiarity with Allen-Bradley or Siemens PLC programming.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, or E-Plan software for electrical schematics generation.
- Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without restrictions.
6. Automation Controls Engineer (Warehouse Automation Systems Integration)
Reliable equipment uptime on large-scale automated pick-pack-ship lines depends on the Automation Controls Engineer, who evaluates customer requirements, designs and commissions PLC-based control systems, and acts as the technical lead and client liaison from concept through installation and ongoing support. Based within a project management and vendor-facing environment, this role generates bills of materials, writes descriptions of operation, and coordinates with external vendors to advance designs from proposal through approval.
Accountabilities
- Evaluate and analyze customer requirements to provide input into overall solution design and project proposals.
- Work with project management and external vendors to advance concept to design approval phase.
- Design and test PLC control cabinets; generate bills of materials, source material, and parts.
- Design, develop, test, install, and support PLC-based controls systems on large-scale automated pick-pack-ship lines including warehouse management systems using Allen Bradley and Siemens hardware.
- Review layouts for accuracy and details required for approvals.
- Write descriptions of operation and develop detailed RFQs.
- Act as the technical lead and liaison for assigned clients.
Experience & Qualifications
- 2+ years of experience developing automation software using Allen Bradley and Siemens PLC hardware and software.
- 2+ years of experience troubleshooting and commissioning PLC solutions and designing and troubleshooting control cabinets.
- Experience performing I/O checkout and wiring verification; 1+ years working with SCADA.
- 3+ years of proficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; strong interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently.
- Willing to travel 25–35% of the time to customer sites.
7. Automation Controls Engineer (Aerospace & Satellite Manufacturing)
As the Automation Controls Engineer, this role develops and implements industrial automation and test systems supporting high-rate satellite production, working with design and manufacturing teams to program CNC and PLC systems, conduct safety analysis, and integrate data acquisition with manufacturing execution systems. The manufacturing and engineering teams rely on this work to maintain UL508A and NFPA79-compliant electrical panel designs and to support both internally and externally sourced automation projects.
Technical Responsibilities
- Work with design and manufacturing teams to develop and implement industrial automation and test systems to support high-rate satellite production.
- Perform custom CNC and PLC programming using Beckhoff automation platform.
- Conduct system integration and safety analysis.
- Design industrial electrical panels and schematics according to UL508A and NFPA79 standards.
- Perform data acquisition and integration to manufacturing execution system (MES).
- Support both internally and externally sourced projects.
Technical Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or relevant experience.
- 3+ years of experience programming manufacturing automation systems.
- 1+ years of experience designing, building, wiring, and troubleshooting industrial control panels.
- Experience with Beckhoff, Siemens, or Allen Bradley automation platforms preferred; expert experience with industrial control equipment including sensors, pneumatics, vision systems, fieldbuses, and PID Controllers.
- Experience with Ignition HMI development; additional high-level programming skills (C#, Python, .NET) a plus.
- Cross-organizational communication skills; comfortable conveying ideas and concerns clearly in both verbal and written forms.
8. Automation Controls Engineer (Data Center Building Systems)
Automation Controls Engineer builds control and monitoring systems for data center infrastructure, including heat rejection systems, chilled water plants, and electrical power monitoring systems (EPMS), working alongside senior engineers within multi-discipline project teams serving architects, contractors, and building owners. The work directly supports compliance with applicable engineering laws and regulations while producing complete control system network drawings, electrical calculations, and documentation under general supervision.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
- Work within multi-discipline project teams to develop drawing and specification documents for architects, contractors, and building owners.
- Interface with mechanical and electrical engineers on system-specific control and power monitoring requirements.
- Generate control system network drawings, details, and layouts using Revit with oversight from senior engineers.
- Assist with collecting, compiling, and analyzing data relating to substation components, equipment specifications, procurement packages, and IFR/IRC design and review processes.
- Assist with performing basic electrical engineering work including single line, three line, wiring diagrams, substation layout, grounding grid design, and lightning protection.
- Perform routine engineering functions and provide entry-level technical assistance on equipment sizing, cabling, AC/DC panel design, and conduit and trenching design.
- Develop electrical calculations for loads, equipment sizing, feeder sizing, voltage drop, grounding, and power distribution under close supervision.
- Generate complete and accurate documentation using electronic systems, drawings, and field notebooks.
- Comply with safety guidelines, site-specific procedures, and WSP's Code of Conduct; complete training on assigned tasks.
Background & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Architecture, Robotics, Physics, or similar Engineering program.
- Engineer in Training Certification; prior internship related to the engineering discipline preferred; active membership in local professional practice organizations preferred.
- 0–1 years of relevant post-education experience; interest in HVAC and EPMS control applications for commercial, industrial, or mission-critical buildings.
- General understanding of electrical engineering as applied to large capital projects; familiarity with relevant engineering laws, codes, regulations, and compliance practices.
- Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (CADD, Aspen, CAPE, AutoCAD Electrical, Revit); basic proficiency with technical writing, spreadsheets, and office automation tools.
- Strong research and analytical skills; proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization.
- Competent interpersonal and communication skills with engineering and non-engineering audiences; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Occasional travel may be required; ability to work schedules that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
9. Automation Controls Engineer (EV & Zero-Emissions Vehicle Manufacturing)
The Automation Controls Engineer owns control system concept, design, and standardization for automated assembly lines and manufacturing equipment in a high-volume electric and hydrogen fuel cell truck production environment, contributing to continuous improvement programs with broad influence across production operations. Reporting into manufacturing engineering and partnering with system owners, quality assurance, and operations stakeholders, this role develops best-practice PLC and HMI architecture and prepares factory acceptance testing strategies for new filling and packaging equipment.
Key Deliverables
- Develop and define a standard for automation controls across the manufacturing process using best-practice architecture and programming techniques for all vendor applications.
- Program, configure, specify, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMI, VFDs, Servos, Vision Systems, and Robotics.
- Create electrical schematics and automation/controls-related drawings in conformance to specifications.
- Provide expertise in engineering, design, installation, and start-up of automation systems.
- Assist manufacturing operations in problem-solving with regards to automation systems; assist in validation of process and facility automation.
- Support operations in design, maintenance, scale-up, optimization, troubleshooting, and validation of manufacturing processes and equipment.
- Prepare user requirements and factory acceptance testing strategy for new filling and packaging equipment.
- Monitor industry trends and new technology; create innovative solutions to shape digital manufacturing.
Professional Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Mechatronic Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent.
- Minimum 6 years of experience in automotive or other high-volume, complex manufacturing; minimum 3 years of experience in control integration for plant floor systems (MES and SCADA).
- Advanced understanding of electrical safety standards and equipment-related safety standards.
- Experience with programming languages such as C++, C#, Java, SQL, HTML5, and Matlab.
- Basic understanding of Relational Databases (SQL).
- Proficient with Siemens TIA Portal, SIMATIC Manager, PCS 7, WinCC, Wonderware Intouch ME, Ignition, and Cognex Insight.
- PLC/HMI programming with Rockwell Software (RSLogix 5000/Studio5000, RSLogix500, FactoryTalk View).
- CAD software experience (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, Catia V6 preferred).
- Excellent interpersonal skills for interaction with stakeholders; excellent technical writing skills.
10. Automation Controls Engineer (Industrial Facility Automation & Training)
The Automation Controls Engineer produces and maintains organized, reusable PLC code and HMI screens for complex industrial machinery while managing cabinet builds, component sizing, and control panel design, serving as the internal technical resource for automation deployment and post-deployment team training. The engineering team relies on this work to establish standard operating procedures, define instrumentation maintenance requirements, and ensure meaningful alarm structures are validated and periodically reviewed for effectiveness.
Areas of Ownership
- Architect, write, and debug organized, structured, documented, maintainable, and reusable PLC code.
- Generate HMI screens for complex machinery and provide documentation for use and troubleshooting.
- Manage electrical cabinet builds and field wiring.
- Select and size electrical and electromechanical components such as servos, 3-phase motors, analog and digital sensors, and safety-rated components.
- Train internal team to support automated equipment after deployment.
- Identify, develop, and design control panels; provide improvements and upgrades to control systems.
- Develop standard operating procedures, train personnel on all new systems, and report performance trends and issues to management.
- Define control system and instrumentation maintenance requirements; identify instrumentation deficiencies and suggest alternatives.
- Assist multi-discipline engineering team in creating meaningful alarms and periodically check their effectiveness.
Knowledge Skills & Abilities
- BS/MS in Electrical, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering, or 5+ years at an industrial manufacturing facility with related instrumentation/automation certifications.
- Software knowledge: PLC programming with Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell RS Studio, and Ignition SCADA; experience in design, operation, and maintenance of industrial control systems.
- Familiarity with robot programming languages such as INFORM; ProfiNET, Modbus TCP/IP, Ethernet I/P, and Kepware experience a plus.
- Proficiency in creating detailed schematics in CAD (SolidWorks preferred); text-based programming (C, C++, Python) and MySQL or other relational databases a plus.
- High Performance HMI best practices familiarity a plus.
- Strong data and system analysis, troubleshooting, and teamwork skills; excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
11. Automation Controls Engineer (Industrial Process Controls & Commissioning)
Automation Controls Engineer designs and programs control panels, develops I/O lists and network diagrams, and supports project start-up activities through field commissioning, collaborating with engineering colleagues, clients, equipment vendors, and contractors on multi-discipline industrial process projects. The work directly supports construction package development and installed system troubleshooting for application engineering teams requiring both programming expertise and NEC and UL508A regulatory knowledge.
Scope of Work
- Design control panels for industrial processes.
- Develop I/O Lists and I/O Wiring Diagrams.
- Contribute to the development of construction packages and specifications.
- Develop network diagrams and drawings.
- Program industrial PLCs and HMIs.
- Assist application engineering for sensing and control, as well as installed system troubleshooting.
- Collaborate with engineering colleagues on multi-discipline projects and coordinate with project clients, equipment vendors, and contractors.
- Support project start-up activities with field commissioning.
Minimum Qualifications
- BS/MS in Engineering or Associate's degree with relevant working experience.
- Successful completion of EIT exam; PLC hardware/software and configuration experience (Rockwell, Siemens, etc.).
- Electrical fundamentals of AC/DC electricity; networking fundamentals; understanding of NEC and UL508A; switchgear breaker control and power meter knowledge.
- Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) programming; pump operation and fluid dynamics; sanitary design.
- Working knowledge of one-line diagrams, schematics, wiring diagrams, control enclosure design, and bills of materials; server setup and deployment; network design and implementation; industrial managed switch programming.
- AutoCAD and Revit experience; Microsoft Office proficiency; Oracle, SQL, or other database program experience.
- Ability to learn quickly.
Editorial Process and Content Quality
This content is developed by the Lamwork Editorial Team using structured analysis of real-world job data, skill requirements, and hiring patterns.
Research framework by Lam Nguyen, Founder & Editorial Lead.
Reviewed by Thanh Huyen, Managing Editor.
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