Designs, develops, and manages automated control systems for industrial processes.
| Experience Level | Years of Experience | Modeled Salary | Modeled Range |
|---|---|---|---|
Entry Level | 0-2 years | $59,500 | $53,550 - $65,450 |
Mid Level | 3-7 years | $85,000 | $76,500 - $93,500 |
Senior Level | 8+ years | $119,000 | $107,100 - $130,900 |
Method: PLC Programming IO formula using an internal USD benchmark and location multipliers; not direct local salary observations. Treat these figures as a planning estimate only. Actual salaries vary by employer, role scope, skills, certifications, and negotiation.
This model uses a cost-of-living input of 0.88 and applies a 1.00x location multiplier. That multiplier is a modeling assumption, not evidence that employers adjust salaries by this amount.
Core PLC programming language using ladder diagrams
Experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and Studio 5000 software
Human-Machine Interface design and programming
Ability to diagnose and resolve PLC and control system issues
Understanding electrical diagrams and control panel layouts
Ability to communicate technical concepts to diverse audiences
Programming Siemens PLCs using TIA Portal
Experience with SCADA systems like Wonderware or Ignition
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These certifications can help advance your Controls Engineer career and increase earning potential:
Entry-level certification for Common Industrial Protocol networking
Professional certification for Allen-Bradley PLCs and Studio 5000
Certification for Siemens PLC programming using TIA Portal
State-issued professional engineering license
Common career progression paths from Controls Engineer:
Current demand levels for Controls Engineer across various industries:
Strong demand for automation across all manufacturing sectors
EV transition driving need for new automation systems
Increasing automation for quality control and efficiency
Strict compliance requirements driving automation investment
Steady demand for control system maintenance and upgrades
Develops and implements automation solutions to improve efficiency and reduce manual processes.
Designs and maintains SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems for monitoring and controlling industrial processes.
Optimizes manufacturing processes and implements automation solutions for production efficiency.
The formula produces a modeled midpoint of $87,833 per year and a range from $59,500 to $119,000. These are planning estimates, not direct observations of local salaries or a promise of earnings.
Key skills for a Controls Engineer include Ladder Logic Programming, Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation, HMI Design, and Troubleshooting & Debugging. Preferred skills that can enhance your career prospects include Siemens PLC (S7, TIA Portal) and SCADA Systems.
Valuable certifications include CIP Associate Certificate, Rockwell Automation Certified Professional, Siemens Certified Programmer. These credentials can demonstrate expertise and commitment to professional development. Check current job postings and employer requirements in Michigan before choosing a certification.
The model uses a cost-of-living input of 0.88 and a location multiplier of 1.00x. These inputs explain the formula; they do not establish how a particular employer sets compensation.
The top industries in Michigan for Controls Engineer positions include Automotive, Manufacturing, Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals. The location dataset associates major employment hubs with Detroit and Grand Rapids. Verify current demand using live job listings and local labor data.
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