Maintains electrical equipment and the instruments that measure and control pressure, flow, level, temperature and process conditions.
Related role band: $135k–$190kElectrical · Specialist
Controls technician
Diagnoses and maintains the instrumentation and control interfaces that let fixed plant run as designed.
Indicative 2026 annual cash$140k–$200kGross, generally before super
Common roster contextSite roles may use 8/6, 7/7 or shutdown campaigns; workshop and project roles can be residential or DIDO.
Role at a glance
What this role actually does.
Diagnoses and maintains the instrumentation and control interfaces that let fixed plant run as designed. The precise scope changes with the employer, asset, jurisdiction and written authorities.
The work
Core duties
- 01
Fault-find signals and control loops
- 02
Test instruments and interlocks under approved procedures
- 03
Document configuration changes with engineering
The assets
Equipment and systems
- 01
PLC and HMI interfaces
- 02
Calibration instruments
- 03
Sensors, actuators and networks
Before mobilisation
Typical foundations
- 01
Relevant electrical or instrumentation trade scope
- 02
Electrical licence for prescribed work
- 03
Platform-specific and site change-control competence
Prove capability
Evidence employers can verify
- 01
Platform and instrument types
- 02
Fault isolation and test records
- 03
Approved change and return-to-service evidence
Entry pathway
A credible way into the role.
- 01
Build an electrical or instrumentation base
- 02
Gain supervised loop and control-system experience
- 03
Specialise in plant platforms and fault diagnosis
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.
Designs or modifies industrial control logic and interfaces for a defined plant system with managed testing and change approval.
Related role band: $140k–$210kLeads licensed electrical work, schedules a crew and checks that access, testing and handover meet site requirements.
Related role band: $155k–$215kProgression 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.