What are the responsibilities and job description for the Automation Controls Engineer position at Komatsu America?
Automation Controls Engineer
Posting Start Date: 8/19/26
Job Location (Short): Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 53204-2941
Requisition ID: 36658
Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position
Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big!
Job Overview
The Automation Controls Engineer develops autonomous control systems for Electric Rope Shovels, with responsibility for control algorithm development, system integration, simulation, testing, and field validation.
The role requires a high degree of technical ownership and independent problem-solving. Successful candidates should be comfortable developing new concepts, testing them against real-world machine behavior, and refining designs based on test and field results.
This position is based at our headquarters in Milwaukee, WI, with an onsite work schedule that includes one remote workday per week.
Key Job Responsibilities
Qualifications/Requirements
Preferred Qualifications
Company Benefits
Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions. We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.
Company Information
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company's founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at
EEO Statement
Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
Posting Start Date: 8/19/26
Job Location (Short): Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 53204-2941
Requisition ID: 36658
Onsite or Remote: Onsite Position
Join Komatsu and Be Part of Something Big!
Job Overview
The Automation Controls Engineer develops autonomous control systems for Electric Rope Shovels, with responsibility for control algorithm development, system integration, simulation, testing, and field validation.
The role requires a high degree of technical ownership and independent problem-solving. Successful candidates should be comfortable developing new concepts, testing them against real-world machine behavior, and refining designs based on test and field results.
This position is based at our headquarters in Milwaukee, WI, with an onsite work schedule that includes one remote workday per week.
Key Job Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and refine control algorithms for autonomous machine functions.
- Define technical requirements and specifications for autonomous control systems.
- Develop and use simulation and test environments to evaluate system performance before machine deployment.
- Integrate control software, sensors, and supporting hardware into machine systems.
- Plan and execute system testing, including laboratory, simulation, and on-machine validation.
- Collect and analyze machine data to identify performance issues and opportunities for improvement.
- Troubleshoot control system behavior and support root-cause investigation of field issues.
- Improve system performance, reliability, and operator experience through iterative development and validation.
- Collaborate with a small engineering team to move concepts from initial development through implementation and field validation.
- Evaluate and apply emerging technologies that may improve autonomous machine functionality.
Qualifications/Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Controls, Robotics, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline.
- Experience with automation, autonomous systems, or automated vehicle technologies.
- Hands-on experience with the design, programming, integration, and validation of control systems.
- Proficiency with software development tools used for automation and control applications.
- Ability to analyze technical problems and develop practical engineering solutions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Knowledge of kinematics, robotics, machine vision, sensors, and sensor integration.
- Experience with the installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and support of machine control systems or related technologies.
- Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting machine and field test data.
- Experience with NI hardware, LabVIEW, Python, C/C , and MATLAB/Simulink.
- Experience developing or validating control systems for heavy equipment, mobile machinery, robotics, or autonomous vehicles.
Company Benefits
Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
- 401k and/or employee savings programs
- Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
- Employee and family assistance programs
- Disability benefits
- Life insurance
- Employee learning and development programs
Diversity & Inclusion Commitment
At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions. We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.
Company Information
Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company's founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee, you will be encouraged to grow alongside our global company, contributing to a more sustainable future for all. If you are looking for a company that values your talent and potential, join Komatsu to be a part of something big and help advance modern society. Learn more at
EEO Statement
Komatsu is an Equal Opportunity Workplace and an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.