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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Rossville, TN

$74K - $96K/yr

Position: Controls Engineer Reports to: Manager, Electrical & Controls We are looking for a ... You will be involved in commissioning, testing, programing of automation, instrumentation, and ...

Controls Engineer

Rossville, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Position: Controls Engineer Reports to: Manager, Electrical & Controls We are looking for a ... You will be involved in commissioning, testing, programing of automation, instrumentation, and ...

Controls Engineer

Rossville, TN · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Position: Controls Engineer Reports to: Manager, Electrical & Controls We are looking for a ... You will be involved in commissioning, testing, programing of automation, instrumentation, and ...

Controls Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

Your Contribution As a Controls Engineer reporting to the Head of Supervisors, you will be ... Perform automation start-up and post start-up support for internal and external customer projects ...

Controls Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a ... related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. * Hands-on experience troubleshooting ...

Controls Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a ... related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. * Hands-on experience troubleshooting ...

Controls Engineer This Controls Engineer role focuses on supporting smaller scale projects and line ... Diagnose and resolve issues related to HMIs, robotics, and automation systems within the production ...

Controls Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

Your Contribution As a Controls Engineer reporting to the Head of Supervisors, you will be ... Perform automation start-up and post start-up support for internal and external customer projects ...

Job Title: Controls Engineer This Controls Engineer role focuses on supporting smaller scale ... Diagnose and resolve issues related to HMIs, robotics, and automation systems within the production ...

Controls Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Perform automation start‑up and post‑start‑up support for internal and external customer projects, software and hardware. * Provide feedback on internal and external customer projects for ...

Controls Engineer

Nashville, TN

$80K - $104K/yr

Minimum 6 months Job Summary We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support production operations through the troubleshooting, programming, and optimization of plant automation equipment. This role ...

Industrial Controls Engineer

Portland, TN · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

This position supports Flex-Tek's broader automation and innovation efforts by helping evaluate ... This role is a strong fit for an experienced controls engineer who enjoys staying close to the ...

Industrial Controls Engineer

Portland, TN

$75K - $98K/yr

This position supports Flex-Tek's broader automation and innovation efforts by helping evaluate ... This role is a strong fit for an experienced controls engineer who enjoys staying close to the ...

Industrial Controls Engineer

Portland, TN · On-site

$75K - $98K/yr

This position supports Flex-Tek's broader automation and innovation efforts by helping evaluate ... This role is a strong fit for an experienced controls engineer who enjoys staying close to the ...

Controls Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. * Hands-on experience troubleshooting industrial ...

Controls Engineer

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. * Hands-on experience troubleshooting industrial ...

Showing results 21-40

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$41.8K

$89.1K

$127.5K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Tennessee is $89,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $100,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation controls engineer?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What does an automation controls engineer do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges automation controls engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Automation Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Automation Controls Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in TN?

For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,115 per year, or $42.8 per hour.

$74K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Position: Controls Engineer                                               Reports to: Manager, Electrical & Controls  

We are looking for a Controls Engineer to join our team in Rossville. The Controls Engineer will be lead the design, development, programming, integration and continuous improvement of our industrial automation and control systems. The ideal candidate should be a creative problem-solver with experience in designing and troubleshooting electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic industrial systems as well as control wiring.

You will be involved in commissioning, testing, programing of automation, instrumentation, and control systems as well as preventive maintenance and repair services of a variety of industrial automation equipment, including, but not limited to PLCs, HMIs, Sensors, VFDs, Industrial Networking.

Requirements

Opportunities

The Controls Engineers will work in a multi-team environment alongside Engineering and Production as required. You will work collaboratively with the design, engineering, and production teams, as well as maintenance and quality assurance, to continuously improve equipment, systems, and facilities engaged in the development and production of Silver Hills' innovative products.

Here is who you are...

Drive & motivation

  • You are a hard worker with the willingness to roll up your sleeves and get the job done
  • You are a positive and optimistic team player who strives for excellence
  • You are passionate about Automation, and Industrial Controls  
  • You are self-motivated to solve problems and understand how things work

Character & Abilities  

  • You are super organized and pay extra attention to details
  • You can make sound and safe judgement
  • You are willing to shift priorities and tasks when necessary to drive the project forward
  • You are flexible in responding to challenges as changes occur
  • You are mechanically inclined with excellent mathematical abilities
  • You are able to deliver work up to all applicable codes on time and quality
  • You can demonstrate independent judgment in realistic planning, prioritization, and execution of projects, assignments, and communications

Skills & experience

  • Diploma, certification, or degree in Electrical/Automation/Mechatronics Engineering
  • 3-5 years experience in a Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer or similar role within an industrial manufacturing environment
  • Proven track record of designing, programming and validating machine safety circuits, and safety controllers
  • Advanced programming skills in major PLC/HMI platforms
  • Direct experience troubleshooting and configuring VFDs, Servo drives, and industrial robotics
  • Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Operating systems and TCP/IP networking
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings
  • Proficiency in AutoCad Electrical
  • Ability to troubleshoot a variety of electrical and mechanical problems.

Responsibilites

  • Commissioning & Startup: Lead hands-on commissioning, startup, testing, and acceptance (FAT/SAT) of robotic cells, collaborative robots, and automated equipment - conveyors, augers, dryers, packaging machines, silos, cyclones, and material handling.
  • Robot & EOA Integration: Mount, configure, and integrate robots and their end-of-arm tooling into each cell, including sensors, vision, and motion control for perception and inspection.
  • Controls & PLC/HMI: Program, configure, and integrate PLC/HMI systems (AB & Beckhoff preferred), VFDs, and servo motion control, tying new cells into existing production lines.
  • Electrical & Mechanical Build: Wire, terminate, and troubleshoot electrical, controls, and mechanical components during cell build and start-up, working hands-on across both disciplines.
  • Networking & Panels: Specify and integrate control panels and set up industrial communication networks (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet) for reliable machine-to-data connectivity.
  • Troubleshooting & Root-Cause: Provide expert troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for complex electrical, controls, and robotics issues, and expedite repairs.
  • Optimization & Modernization: Modify and improve existing automated equipment and lead post-commissioning tuning, optimization, and sustainment.
  • Safety & Compliance: Conduct robotic risk assessments and implement safeguarding to CSA Z434, ISO 10218, ISO/TS 15066, and ANSI/RIA R15.06, ensuring plant safety, food-safety, sanitation, and applicable electrical codes are met.
  • Procurement & Vendors: Participate in sourcing, evaluation, and procurement of systems and critical components, and serve as the primary technical interface with OEMs and integrators.
  • Cross-Functional Coordination: Coordinate with Engineering, Operations, Maintenance, Quality, and Sanitation to ensure seamless integration, equipment effectiveness, and reliability.
  • Documentation & Drawings: Create and update electrical/control drawings (AutoCAD) and maintain accurate as-builts, control logic, safety assessments, and commissioning records.
  • Training & Project Delivery: Train maintenance and operations teams on new cells, and keep installations on schedule and within budget while managing technical risk.

Benefits

We offer our team members many benefits to help them achieve their goals and support our company culture:

  • Opportunities for career growth and development
  • Competitive Healthcare Benefits and 401K Package
  • Performance Bonus
  • Free delicious and healthy bread
  • Friendly and supportive work environment and an ambitious team
  • Company social events focused around health, great tasting food and getting together as a team

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