How to Build a Career in Electrical Automation & Controls
The field of electrical automation and controls is a growing and lucrative career path, blending electrical engineering, programming, and industrial automation. Industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, energy, and utilities depend on automation specialists to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability.
If you’re interested in high-tech electrical work with automation, this guide will help you understand the steps to start and grow your career in electrical automation and controls.
Step 1: Understand the Role of Electrical Automation Professionals
Electrical automation professionals design, install, program, and maintain automated electrical systems. These systems control everything from manufacturing equipment to oilfield monitoring and industrial robotics.
Common job titles in this field include:
✔ Automation Technician – Installs and maintains automated systems in industrial settings.
✔ PLC Programmer – Programs Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) to manage automated processes.
✔ SCADA Engineer – Develops and maintains Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems for real-time monitoring and control.
✔ Controls Engineer – Designs and implements control systems for industrial machinery.
✔ Industrial Electrician – Installs and repairs electrical systems, often working alongside automation specialists.
If you enjoy problem-solving, working with technology, and electrical systems, this career path offers strong job security and competitive pay.
Step 2: Get the Right Education and Training
To enter the field of electrical automation and controls, you’ll need technical training and hands-on experience.
Formal Education Options
Many professionals start with one of the following:
✔ Associate Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology – Covers electrical theory, PLC programming, and control systems.
✔ Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or Automation Technology – Provides deeper knowledge of automation, control systems, and industrial applications.
✔ Trade School or Technical College Programs – Offer specialized courses in PLC programming, industrial automation, and SCADA systems.
Some trade schools and community colleges in Oklahoma that offer automation-related programs include:
✔ Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT)
✔ Tulsa Tech
✔ Francis Tuttle Technology Center
If you’re looking for a faster, hands-on approach, trade school and apprenticeship programs can be an affordable and direct way into the industry.
On-the-Job Training & Apprenticeships
Many electrical apprenticeships include exposure to automation and control systems. You’ll work under licensed professionals while learning how to:
✔ Install and troubleshoot electrical control panels
✔ Wire and program PLCs
✔ Maintain industrial automation systems
Some electrical companies in Oklahoma, including Houston Electric, offer apprenticeship programs that can help you build real-world experience in electrical automation.
Step 3: Gain Key Skills for Electrical Automation & Controls
To succeed in this field, you’ll need a mix of technical knowledge and hands-on skills.
Technical Skills:
✔ PLC Programming – Learn how to program and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and Mitsubishi PLCs.
✔ SCADA Systems – Understand how to configure and maintain real-time monitoring systems.
✔ Electrical Wiring & Circuitry – Gain expertise in installing and repairing control panels, wiring, and sensors.
✔ Instrumentation & Sensors – Work with pressure sensors, temperature controllers, and motion detectors.
✔ Industrial Networking – Learn about Ethernet/IP, Modbus, and Profibus for communication between automated systems.
Soft Skills:
✔ Problem-Solving – Quickly diagnose issues and find efficient solutions.
✔ Attention to Detail – Precision is key when working with complex electrical systems.
✔ Teamwork & Communication – Collaborate with engineers, electricians, and technicians on projects.
If you’re detail-oriented and enjoy working with technology, electrical automation offers endless opportunities for career growth.
Step 4: Get Certified for Career Advancement
While formal education and hands-on experience are essential, earning industry certifications can make you more competitive in the job market.
Some of the most recognized automation certifications include:
✔ Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) – Offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), this certification validates skills in industrial automation and control systems.
✔ Allen-Bradley PLC Programming Certification – Demonstrates expertise in one of the most widely used PLC brands.
✔ Siemens PLC Certification – Recognized in industrial automation and manufacturing sectors.
✔ OSHA Electrical Safety Certification – Essential for working safely in industrial environments.
Earning certifications boosts your resume and helps you qualify for higher-paying jobs.
Step 5: Find a Job in Electrical Automation
Once you’ve completed your education and training, it’s time to start your career. Here’s how to find job opportunities:
Apply for Entry-Level Jobs
Search for positions like:
✔ Automation Technician
✔ PLC Programmer
✔ SCADA Engineer
✔ Industrial Electrician
You can find jobs through:
✔ Online Job Boards – Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor list entry-level automation jobs.
✔ Local Electrical Companies – Many companies in Oklahoma, including Houston Electric, hire apprentices and automation technicians.
✔ Networking & Industry Events – Join ISA (International Society of Automation) and local electrical trade associations to connect with employers.
Industries Hiring Automation Professionals
✔ Manufacturing & Industrial Facilities
✔ Oil & Gas (SCADA & Remote Monitoring Systems)
✔ Renewable Energy & Power Generation
✔ Utilities & Smart Grid Systems
Automation professionals are in demand across industries, offering long-term career stability.
Step 6: Continue Learning & Advance Your Career
As technology evolves, staying up to date with new automation trends is key to career growth.
✔ Advance to a Controls Engineer or SCADA Engineer Role – Gain experience with advanced automation programming and industrial control systems.
✔ Earn Additional Certifications – Get specialized in machine automation, industrial networking, or robotics.
✔ Pursue a Leadership Role – Experienced professionals can move into project management and engineering leadership.
Start Your Career in Electrical Automation & Controls Today!
Electrical automation is a fast-growing industry with opportunities in industrial, oilfield, and manufacturing sectors. Whether you're just starting or looking to specialize, education, certifications, and hands-on training will set you up for success.
Looking for automation career opportunities in Oklahoma? Houston Electric is hiring apprentices, PLC programmers, and SCADA engineers now!
📍 Location: Garber, OK
📞 Phone: (580) 863-2863
📧 Email: contact@houstonelectricinc.net
Apply today and start your journey in electrical automation!
