1

Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in Mankato, MN (NOW HIRING)

Develop, implement, and auditsupplierquality standards, inspection methods, and process controls ... Associate's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field 3years of experience in quality ...

Develop, implement, and auditsupplierquality standards, inspection methods, and process controls ... Associate's degree in Business, Engineering, or related field 3years of experience in quality ...

... controls/robot failures. May rely on higher level Technicians and Engineers in complex systems ... An associate degree in a related area is preferred. Ten (10) years' experience in Industrial ...

Associate Controls Engineer information

See Mankato, MN salary details

$54.5K

$95.7K

$129.9K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate controls engineer in Mankato, MN is $95,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,800.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do associate controls engineers get paid?

Associate controls engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $60,000 and $75,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills in PLC programming, automation, or certifications can earn higher wages.

What are some common challenges faced by associate controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Associate Controls Engineers often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software engineering backgrounds. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across disciplines, as each team may use different technical jargon and have distinct priorities. Additionally, balancing project timelines while integrating control systems with hardware and software components can require strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Proactively seeking feedback and participating in cross-functional meetings can help Associate Controls Engineers bridge gaps and contribute effectively to project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate controls engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard software such as AutoCAD or Rockwell Automation tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and resolve technical challenges. These competencies are crucial for designing efficient control solutions, ensuring system reliability, and driving project success in automated environments.

What does an associate controls engineer do?

An Associate Controls Engineer assists in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used in manufacturing or industrial settings. They work with senior engineers to implement automation solutions, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment operates safely and efficiently. Their tasks often include programming controllers, testing system performance, and supporting the integration of new technologies. This role typically requires knowledge of electrical engineering, programming languages like PLC, and a strong attention to detail.

What is the difference between Associate Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectAssociate Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; some certificationsBachelor's or higher in related engineering; often more experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting design, testing, and troubleshootingMore independent, leading projects, and system integration
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and industrial facilitiesSimilar industries, with increased responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience and responsibility level. Associate Controls Engineers typically support and assist in projects, focusing on learning and executing tasks under supervision. Controls Engineers take on more independent roles, managing projects and system design. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Controls Engineers usually have more hands-on experience and leadership responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Mankato, MN? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Mankato, MN are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Mankato, MN? For Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Mankato, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Mankato, MN are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Mankato, MN with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in Mankato, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,733 per year, or $46 per hour.

Associate Mechanical Engineer

Nidec Corporation

Mankato, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Nidec rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 487 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

We begin with dreams. Dreams drive our motivation. Dreams are our future. The world's dreams, people's dreams, our dreams. Our passion creates ideas that make dreams come alive. Technology and products that were only dreams become reality.
All for dreams. Dreams challenge and the Nidec-Group will continue to meet the challenge. For the world's and people's tomorrows; the world's first, the world's best technologies and products; we will continue our part in creating a better society.
Job Summary
Nidec is the world's No. 1 comprehensive motor manufacturer handling "everything that spins and moves", miniature to gigantic. Nidec is a global enterprise comprised of over 300 subsidiaries/affiliates. We are a leading manufacturer of commercial motors, industrial motors, appliance motors, and controls. Our product line features a full line of high efficiency motors for industrial applications in water treatment, mining, oil and gas, and power generation, and for commercial applications such as pool and spa, condensers, cooling towers and large refrigeration units.
From keeping us comfortable in our homes to pumping clean water to making our cars more safe, electric motors are an indispensable part of our daily lives. At Nidec, our employees are on the forefront of developing new motor technologies. As we move deeper into the age of robotics, the impact of motors will only increase.
With over 140,000 employees stationed worldwide, Nidec continues to be a unique organization, and each location maintains its individual personality.
Whether driving locomotives, powering offshore platforms or keeping the lights on after a storm, Nidec electric power generation products impact the world on a daily basis. With over 1,000 employees in the Americas, we are moving forward with technology to solve our customers' electrical power needs for both prime and backup generation needs as the industry's leading manufacturer.
Job Description
Shift: 1st Shift
Days of Work: Monday - Friday
Work Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Work Location: On-Site (Mankato, MN)
Starting Salary: $61,800- $92,700
Pay Frequency: Bi-Weekly
At Nidec, we prioritize our team's well-being and success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you both personally and professionally. These are the great benefits we offer, with additional perks and programs available to enhance your overall experience with us.
  • Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary with additional bonus opportunities.
  • Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, effective from your first day.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with a best in-class company match of 100% on the employee's first 6% with an additional 3% employer contribution to support your financial future.
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous time off package, including PTO and holidays.
  • Education Assistance: Tuition reimbursement and continuous learning opportunities to support your professional growth.

Position Objective:
Research, plan, and design mechanical and electromechanical products and systems and direct and coordinate activities involved in fabrication, operation, application, installation, and repair of mechanical or electromechanical products and systems by performing the following duties.
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
  • With Direct Supervision:
    • Perform calculations using math tools including but not limited to Excel, MathCad, and Xlrotor
    • Conduct finite element structural analysis.
    • Evaluate field installations and recommend design modifications to eliminate machine or system malfunctions.
    • Research and analyze customer design requirements, specifications, manuals, and other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, and product maintenance.
    • Work with sales to research and analyze customer specifications to create design proposals.
    • Create detailed designs for manufacturing in a cross functional environment following manufacturability and quality initiatives.
    • Review drawing packages and order documentation completed by other designers and engineers.
    • Design Products, applying engineering principles to meet customer specifications.
    • Design products to meet safety, industry, and agency certification requirements.
    • Evaluate project requirements for required effort and provide estimated completion times.
    • Evaluate design projects to ensure the latest design practices are being utilized.
    • Perform testing to evaluate structural, thermal, and vibration of products.
    • Create bills of materials and assist designers/technicians with the creation of bills of material.
    • Coordinate assembly and testing activities to ensure products and systems conform to engineering design and customer specifications.
    • Work closely with production during construction of initial machine release to record and improve manufacturing or procurement challenges.
    • Evaluate customer test requirements and assign existing or write new test procedures to meet requirements.
    • Presents proposed designs to customer and help negotiate changes required to eliminate functional or dimensional problems
  • Without Direct Supervision:
    • Maintenance and support of existing products to include reliability, cost, and manufacturability product improvements.
    • Assign GD&T dimensional tolerance on parts and check tolerance stack up.
    • Communicate product specifications to electrical and mechanical designers and provide guidance on how the specifications affect product design.
    • Other Activities as directed by management.
    • Document and clearly communicate technical results within company and customers as appropriate.

Experience/Skills:
  • Knowledge of AC or DC synchronous / inductive motors and generators.
  • Experience with rotating equipment and generators.
  • Product design and development experience in structural and mechanical machinery.
  • Candidate MUST be a US Citizen as Kato Engineering contracts through the US Department of Defense
  • Able to organize, prioritize, and complete responsibilities in a timely manner without external motivation.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Demonstrated initiative, organizational skill, and professional work habits
  • Able to quickly achieve and maintain a high degree of trust and confidence
  • Experience with engineering tools to perform calculations and analysis (Includes but not limited to Excel, MathCAD).
  • Proficient in PTC Creo or Similar 3D Modeling Software
  • Experience in AutoCAD
  • Proficient with GD&T
  • Ability to clearly and effectively communicate with other departments inside the organization as well as with customers.
  • Proficient with the use of various software applications, including but not limited to: Oracle (ERP), Aras (PLM), Adobe Acrobat, and Microsoft Office
  • 0-3 years' work experience minimum in structural and mechanical machinery product design.
  • Must be a US Citizen for positions at the North Mankato facility.

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Additional Job Details
CHECK OUT OUR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES: Nidec Power | Careers
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action at Nidec
Nidec is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to their age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, genetic information, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following website: http://www1.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf
Work Shift Schedule
First Shift (United States of America)
No Soliciting
Nidec will not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third party recruiting agencies in response to Nidec job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Nidec Talent Acquisition team is required before any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Nidec Talent Acquisition team.

What Nidec employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom