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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Shoals Technologies

Sr. Controls Engineer

Portland, TN · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Lead controls engineering for new equipment installations and process automation projects from concept through startup. * Develop and maintain PLC programs, HMI screens, and SCADA systems to support ...

SpaceXAI

Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Controls and Computer Control Systems, Computer Science, Mechatronic Engineering, Automation Engineering, etc., or equivalent experience * 5+ years of experience as a hands-on Controls Engineer ...

Shoals Technologies Group

Sr. Controls Engineer

Portland, TN · On-site

$88K - $116K/yr

This role partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, and Operations to improve equipment reliability and throughput through strong controls and automation practices, and serves as ...

SHOALS TECHNOLOGIES

Sr. Controls Engineer

Portland, TN

$88K - $116K/yr

This role partners closely with Manufacturing Engineering, Maintenance, and Operations to improve equipment reliability and throughput through strong controls and automation practices, and serves as ...

LAPORTE L.C.C.

Intermediate Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN

$81K - $104K/yr

The Controls Engineer will: * Lead and support the design of automation projects, developing specifications for control panels, networks, and software (primarily Allen-Bradley PLC/PACs and ...

LAPORTE L.C.C.

Intermediate Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

The Controls Engineer will: * Lead and support the design of automation projects, developing specifications for control panels, networks, and software (primarily Allen-Bradley PLC/PACs and ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Maryville, TN · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, debugging, and supporting automated systems and automation equipment for production. This role requires providing electrical design ...

Terry Young & Associates

Be Seen First

Manufacturing Controls Engineer - PLC

Nashville, TN · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Controls Engineer - Manufacturing, Building Products Plant located 120 miles South of Nashville ... control, technology and automation upgrades and implementation. Responsibilities include ...

LAPORTE L.C.C.

Senior Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$94K - $124K/yr

The Controls Engineer will: * Lead and support the design of automation projects, developing specifications for control panels, networks, and software (primarily Allen-Bradley PLC/PACs and ...

LAPORTE L.C.C.

Senior Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN

$94K - $124K/yr

The Controls Engineer will: * Lead and support the design of automation projects, developing specifications for control panels, networks, and software (primarily Allen-Bradley PLC/PACs and ...

Adient plc

Automation Engineer

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

SUMMARY The Automation Engineer provides plant-level strategic and technical leadership for ... Define, maintain, and enforce plant automation standards, design specifications, controls ...

EAD Corporations

$80 - $100/hr

Join EAD to help solve complex controls and automation challenges in industrial facilities. EAD ... The Controls Engineer delivers accurate, practical, and high-quality controls engineering for ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

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.

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Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
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.

Senior Controls Engineer - Automation & Process Systems

Hitachi, Ltd.

Nashville, TN • On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Location:
Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
Job ID:
R0117417
Date Posted:
2026-05-01
Company Name:
WRIGHT INDUSTRIES, LLC
Profession (Job Category):
Engineering & Science
Job Schedule:
Full time
Remote:
No
Job Description:
The Opportunity:
JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is driven to deliver customer success worldwide. We provide intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products. Our strength is our people, and we're always looking to strengthen our team across the globe. Join us as a Senior Controls Engineer.
We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer with strong hands-on experience in programming, debugging, and commissioning automated systems. This role focuses on PLC and HMI programming, robotics and vision integration, and continuous process automation across a range of complex equipment.
You will be deeply involved in building and refining control systems, supporting machine startups, and solving challenging automation problems in collaboration with cross-functional engineering teams. The position is primarily technical and execution-focused, with significant time spent on system development, troubleshooting, and on-site deployment.
Location Type: The position is onsite in Nashville, TN
What We Offer:
  • Competitive wages, medical benefits starting your first day, and paid parental leave
  • Opportunity to work on unique, custom automation projects
  • A collaborative, engineering-driven environment
  • Career growth and skill development opportunities
  • A role where craftsmanship and quality truly matter

How You'll Make an Impact:
  • Lead the full controls lifecycle for new automation builds, from initial concept and system definition through programming, machine power-up, debugging, commissioning, and final acceptance.
  • Design and program control systems from the ground up, including PLC logic, HMI applications, robotics integration, vision systems, and SCADA solutions for new and custom automated equipment.
  • Design controls equipment and architectures to meet customer requirements, performance standards, and application specifications.
  • Support multiple automation projects concurrently while maintaining focus on technical quality, schedule execution, and customer requirements.
  • Lead and collaborate with cross-functional technical teams throughout the project lifecycle to ensure successful execution and integration.
  • Serve as a technical expert within the department, providing guidance on controls architecture, programming approaches, and complex automation challenges.
  • Partner with engineering leadership to support technical development, training, and continuous improvement within the engineering organization.
  • Travel up to 25% to customer sites and company locations to support commissioning, troubleshooting, and project execution.

Note: This list of responsibilities is not inclusive; however, it is intended to be a guideline for activities.
What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience (two years of relevant work experience for each year of academic study), OR an Associate's degree with 2+ years of related experience.
  • 10+ years of experience in controls engineering, automation, or related technical disciplines.
  • 2+ years of experience leading technical projects, with ownership of technical decisions and execution.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and influence engineers, supporting technical excellence and career progression.
  • Strong breadth and depth of experience with industrial automation technologies, systems, and industry practices.
  • Proven ability to identify systemic issues and implement improvements that increase department efficiency and engineering effectiveness.
  • Experience in the automation industry; prior JR Automation experience is strongly preferred.
  • Proven collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines to solve complex, system-level problems.
  • Hands-on experience programming and troubleshooting continuous processes in automated manufacturing environments.
  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs is a plus.

Disclaimer: JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.
Company Overview:
At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what's possible to automate for tomorrow.
Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators.
Fueled by Possible.
Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at JR Automation, please send the nature of request and contact information to jrcareers@jrautomation.com. Queries other than accommodation requests will not be responded to.
Hitachi Vantara logo

About Hitachi Vantara

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hitachi Rail is a fully integrated, global provider of rail solutions across rolling stock, signaling, service & maintenance, digital technology and turnkey. With a presence in 38 countries across three continents and over 13,000 employees, our mission is to contribute to society through the continuous development of superior rail transport solutions.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

2017

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