Take on more complex work, mentoring and quality accountability while building evidence for the next formal step.
Compare roles and pay →Automation & remote operations · Professional
Control systems or PLC engineer
Designs or modifies industrial control logic and interfaces for a defined plant system with managed testing and change approval.
Indicative 2026 annual cash$140k–$210kGross, generally before super
Common roster contextContinuous control may use rotating shifts; office and engineering positions may be Perth-based rather than FIFO.
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Designs or modifies industrial control logic and interfaces for a defined plant system with managed testing and change approval. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Define control requirements and change scope
- 02
Develop and test approved logic or interfaces
- 03
Document commissioning and recovery plan
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
PLC and SCADA platforms
- 02
Control narratives and drawings
- 03
Test and change records
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Relevant engineering qualification and platform competence
- 02
Registration for regulated services where required
- 03
Site OT change and access authority
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Platform, logic and system boundary
- 02
Testing and approval evidence
- 03
Post-change plant outcome
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Build electrical, controls or software engineering depth
- 02
Work with plant operations and instrumentation
- 03
Own supervised change packages
Earning context
What tends to move pay
- 01
Experience and verified scope
- 02
Roster, location and shift pattern
- 03
Employer, contract and allowances
Before accepting
Questions to ask about the offer
- 01
Is this base salary, gross cash or a package including super?
- 02
Which roster, point of hire, ordinary hours and overtime terms apply?
- 03
What duties, equipment and written authorities are included in the offer?
Progression
Possible next moves.
Develops and assures automated mining equipment or coordination systems while working with operations, OEMs and site safety controls.
Related role band: $145k–$220kCompare the role's actual scope, qualifications and employer requirements before treating this as a direct promotion.
Compare roles and pay →Progression depends on demonstrated competence, vacancies, performance, qualifications and any appointment requirements. A related profile is a starting point, not a guarantee of that exact title or scope. Browse all 98 role profiles →
Keep exploring
Related role profiles.
Sources and role examples
Editorial note
Salary bands are broad 2026 Australian mining comparisons, not promised rates. Role requirements summarise common practice and do not replace legislation, regulator guidance, an employment agreement, site procedures or a written appointment. Pay presentation reviewed 27 September 2026.