Controls Technician

Career Guide

A Controls Technician installs, troubleshoots, and maintains automation and control systems that keep equipment running safely and reliably. The role blends hands-on electrical work with basic programming and systematic problem solving to reduce downtime and improve performance.

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Key Responsibilities

Troubleshoot control panels, sensors, motors, and drives
Diagnose equipment faults and restore production quickly
Perform preventive maintenance on automation systems
Read and update electrical schematics and wiring diagrams
Test inputs and outputs and verify safe operation
Support programmable controller and human machine interface changes
Calibrate instruments such as pressure, flow, and temperature devices
Document repairs, parts used, and recurring issues
Coordinate with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams
Follow lockout tagout and site safety procedures

Top Skills for Success

Electrical Troubleshooting

Programmable Logic Controller Fundamentals

Human Machine Interface Support

Control Panel Wiring

Reading Schematics

Sensor Calibration

Industrial Networking Basics

Safety Compliance

Root Cause Analysis

Clear Documentation

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Senior Controls Technician

Controls Engineer

Automation Engineer

Maintenance Supervisor

Reliability Technician

Field Service Technician

Transition Opportunities

Instrumentation Technician

Electrical Technician

Maintenance Planner

Commissioning Technician

SCADA Technician

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Programmable Logic Controller Troubleshooting DepthIndustrial Networking TroubleshootingControl Loop BasicsDocumentation DisciplineCommissioning PracticesCybersecurity Awareness

Development SuggestionsBuild a repeatable troubleshooting process, practice on training rigs or simulators, and document every change and test result. Pair with an experienced technician during outages and startups to learn faster and reduce risk.

Market Intelligence Report

Controls Technician is part of the Equipment Repair category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

See the market intelligence report

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry LevelUSD 45,000 to 60,000

Mid LevelUSD 60,000 to 85,000

Senior LevelUSD 85,000 to 110,000

Growth Trend

Steady demand, supported by factory automation, aging equipment, and expanded maintenance needs in manufacturing, logistics, and utilities.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

SiemensRockwell AutomationSchneider ElectricABBHoneywellJohnson ControlsEmersonTeslaBoeingAmazon

Industry Sectors

ManufacturingAutomotiveFood and BeveragePharmaceuticalsOil and GasEnergyWater and WastewaterLogisticsBuilding AutomationMining

Recommended Next Steps

Refresh electrical fundamentals with a focus on reading schematics and safe testing

Complete a programmable controller fundamentals course and practice basic logic edits

Learn common plant networks and how to verify device connectivity

Create a simple portfolio of before and after troubleshooting notes and diagrams

Ask for shadowing opportunities during equipment startups and major repairs

Earn a safety credential aligned with your site requirements