Automation Engineer vs. Controls Engineer: What Are the Differences?

If you’re interested in a career in engineering, you may be wondering what the difference is between automation engineering and controls engineering. Both fields require a high level of education and skills in math and science. However, automation engineers focus on designing and developing automated systems, while controls engineers focus on designing and developing control systems.

In this article, we’ll discuss the similarities and differences between automation engineering and controls engineering, and we’ll provide some tips on how to choose the right career path for you.

What is an Automation Engineer?

Automation Engineers develop, implement and maintain computer-controlled manufacturing and processing systems. They work in a variety of industries, including food and beverage, automotive, pharmaceuticals and plastics. Automation Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, though some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree. Automation Engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to create models of proposed systems. They also develop software programs to control and monitor the systems they create. Automation Engineers test their systems to ensure they meet safety and performance standards.

What is a Controls Engineer?

Controls Engineers develop and install equipment and software to automate the manufacturing process in factories and other industrial facilities. They work with other engineers and technicians to create and test prototypes of new automation systems. Controls Engineers also develop safety procedures and troubleshoot issues with existing equipment. They may be responsible for training workers on how to use new automation systems. In some cases, Controls Engineers may travel to customer sites to install or repair equipment.

Automation Engineer vs. Controls Engineer

Here are the main differences between an automation engineer and a controls engineer.

Job Duties

Automation and controls engineers share some of their job duties, but each specializes in different areas. Automation engineers focus on designing automated systems that reduce human involvement in a process. They research, design and build the machinery necessary for these systems. Controls engineers oversee the implementation of controls within an existing system to ensure it functions correctly. They monitor and troubleshoot issues with the system and devise solutions to address those issues.

The primary difference between automation and controls engineering is the type of work each specialty performs. While both professions perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting, automation engineers do so with automated systems while controls engineers perform these tasks with conventional systems.

Job Requirements

Automation engineers and controls engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, although some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree. Automation engineers should have experience working with automated systems and controls, while controls engineers should have experience designing and developing control systems. Both automation engineers and controls engineers should be able to use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create models and prototypes of their designs.

Work Environment

Automation engineers typically work in manufacturing facilities, where they can use their expertise to create efficient systems that improve production. They may also work for companies that provide automation services, such as consulting firms or engineering firms. Controls engineers usually work in an office environment, but they may travel to different sites to evaluate and troubleshoot existing systems.

Skills

Both automation engineers and controls engineers use technical skills to perform their jobs. Automation engineers typically design and oversee the implementation of automated systems, while controls engineers develop and maintain the control systems that operate those automated systems. Both types of engineers need to have strong analytical skills to identify problems and develop solutions.

Automation engineers often benefit from having programming skills, as they can use these skills to create code that will automate tasks. Controls engineers may also benefit from having programming skills, as they can use them to develop code for the control systems they are responsible for maintaining. In addition, both automation engineers and controls engineers need to be able to effectively communicate with other members of their team, as well as customers or clients, to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding a project’s goals and objectives.

Salary

Automation engineers earn an average salary of $90,833 per year, while controls engineers earn an average salary of $82,775 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.