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Associate Controls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

CareerPaths NW

Controls Design Engineer

Renton, WA · On-site

$37 - $49/hr

Controls Design Engineer Job Responsibilities * Researching and selecting control system ... Associates degree in a technical field or 2-5 years of related work experience in building ...

CareerPaths NW

Controls Design Engineer

Renton, WA

$37 - $49/hr

Associates degree in a technical field or 2-5 years of related work experience in building ... Engineering preferred. * Strong mechanical aptitude and thorough understanding of controls systems.

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All JobsAssociate Controls Engineer JobsAssociate Controls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Associate Controls Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$62.6K

$110K

$149.2K

How much do associate controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate controls engineer in Seattle, WA is $109,966.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $123,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Associate Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Associate Controls Engineer job openings:

Associate Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Controls Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,966 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Associate Engineer - Instrumentation & Controls

kennedyjc

Federal Way, WA • Hybrid

$117K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Kennedy Jenks is seeking an Instrumentation and Controls Engineer to join our growing team in Federal Way, Washington. We are looking for a motivated professional with5-8 years of experience in instrumentation and controls engineering for municipal pump stations, water treatment, and wastewater facilities. 

Key Responsibilities 

As a member of our Instrumentation & Controls team, you will take an active role in the planning, design, and delivery of automation and control system solutions for municipal and industrial clients. 

  • Lead the design and implementation of instrumentation and control systems for water, wastewater, recycled water, and industrial infrastructure projects. 

  • Develop control strategies, instrumentation layouts, network architectures, and SCADA system designs for treatment facilities and pump stations. 

  • Prepare and review technical deliverables including control narratives, P&IDs, instrumentation specifications, I/O lists, and control system architecture diagrams. 

  • Collaborate with electrical, process, mechanical, and civil engineers to develop integrated, high-quality project solutions. 

  • Support planning studies, condition assessments, alternatives analyses, and engineering reports related to automation and controls systems. 

  • Develop project cost estimates and support project scope development. 

  • Coordinate with clients, system integrators, contractors, equipment vendors, and internal project teams throughout project delivery. 

  • Provide engineering support during construction, commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities. 

  • Perform QA/QC reviews and support the continued development of engineering standards, best practices, and technical excellence. 

  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing across the team. 

Qualifications 

  • 5-8 years of experience in instrumentation and controls engineering, preferably in consulting engineering for water, wastewater, or industrial infrastructure projects 

  • Experience designing instrumentation and control systems for pump stations, treatment facilities, or similar infrastructure projects 

  • Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, control strategies, and instrumentation systems 

  • Experience developing and reviewing P&IDs and control system documentation 

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or other related engineering field 

  • Professional Engineering (PE) license strongly preferred; candidates with the ability to obtain licensure within six months of hire will also be considered 

  • Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment 

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid model of home and office work to empower our people to thrive and achieve their full potential. 

 

Salary Range: The anticipated salary range for this position is $117,000–$160,000 annually and may vary based on education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications, and geographic location. 

Benefits Summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), bonus opportunities, tuition reimbursement, professional registration support, a competitive PTO and holiday plan, and additional employee benefits and wellness programs. 

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