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Control Engineer Postdoc Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE New York University Tandon School of Engineering The Chemical ... Previous experience in fluids and materials design, biological process control, and complex and ...

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Control Engineer Postdoc information

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$36K

$81K

$126.5K

How much do control engineer postdoc jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for control engineer postdoc in the United States is $81,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $97,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control Engineer Postdoc, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Engineer Postdoc, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in control engineering or a related field, with strong expertise in systems modeling, control theory, and applied mathematics. Proficiency in simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink and experience with programming languages like Python or C++, as well as familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop and embedded systems, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively make a candidate stand out. These skills and qualities are critical for conducting advanced research, developing innovative control solutions, and contributing to interdisciplinary projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Control Engineer Postdocs when transitioning from academia to industry-focused projects?

One common challenge for Control Engineer Postdocs moving into industry-oriented projects is adapting to faster-paced development cycles and stricter project deadlines. Unlike academic research, industry projects often require practical, scalable solutions rather than theoretical proofs. Additionally, postdocs may need to collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including software developers, product managers, and hardware engineers, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential. This transition also often involves working with proprietary tools and adhering to industry standards, which may require additional training.

What are Control Engineer Postdocs?

Control Engineer Postdocs are researchers with a Ph.D. who specialize in the design, analysis, and implementation of control systems. They work in academic or industrial research settings, often focusing on advancing knowledge in areas like automation, robotics, or process control. Their responsibilities include conducting experiments, developing new algorithms or methods, publishing research findings, and sometimes mentoring students. This position is typically a temporary role intended to further develop expertise before pursuing a permanent academic or industry position.

What is the difference between Control Engineer Postdoc vs Control Engineer?

AspectControl Engineer PostdocControl Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Engineering or related field, research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, professional experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic research labs, universitiesIndustrial settings, manufacturing, automation companies
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutionsManufacturing firms, tech companies
Common Search & ComparisonResearch-focused roles, academic positionsIndustry-focused roles, engineering positions

The main difference between a Control Engineer Postdoc and a Control Engineer lies in their focus and work environment. A Control Engineer Postdoc is primarily involved in academic research, requiring a PhD and working in universities or research labs. In contrast, a Control Engineer typically works in industry, applying engineering principles in manufacturing or automation settings. Both roles require a strong background in control systems, but their career paths and work environments differ significantly.

More about Control Engineer Postdoc jobs
What cities are hiring for Control Engineer Postdoc jobs? Cities with the most Control Engineer Postdoc job openings:
What states have the most Control Engineer Postdoc jobs? States with the most job openings for Control Engineer Postdoc jobs include:
Infographic showing various Control Engineer Postdoc job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $81,001 per year, or $38.9 per hour.
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Stony Brook University

Stony Brook, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday


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Job description

Required Qualification: (as evidenced by an attached resume)
Ph.D. (or foreign equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a closely related field completed by the start date.

Preferred Qualifications:
We are pushing the limits on shape shifting UAVs! In this project we are rethinking the
structures, actuators, sensors, and control systems used in morphing winged UAVs. We focus on embodying mechanical intelligence in structures through experiments ranging from benchtop tests to outdoor flight demonstrations. Candidates should have a strong publication record in aerial robotics and/or structural mechanics. A background with rapid prototyping and robot design as well as RC hobby experience, will distinguish top candidates. A particular emphasis on shape shifting structures will set competitive candidates apart from the field. 

Brief Description of Duties:
The Postdoctoral Associate will assist the Principal Investigator Dr. William Stewart in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and collaborate closely with the Department of Civil Engineering. The incumbent will conduct research and ensure that all experiments are appropriately conducted following the policies and procedures of Stony Brook University.

     Within the predetermined research scope and methodology, conduct research
experiments in the field of Aerial Robotics and Mechanical Intelligence.

     Collect and analyze data, including periodical/literature search and utilizing
specialized skills in related fields to analyze the collected data.

     Participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and/or
presentations. May also assist in grant writing and report writing.

     Lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering of supplies as
needed.

     Other duties as assigned, which may include attending Scientific Conferences and Meetings.

The rapidly expanding Soft Flyers Group and Dynamic Structures Laboratory at Stony Brook University seeks to fill a Postdoctoral Associate position as soon as possible. We are developing mechanical intelligence as applied to aerial robotics. The focus will be on hardware development and experimental validation up to and including flight testing.

Candidates should have a strong publication record in aerial robotics and/or structural
Mechanics with an emphasis on shape shifting structures will set competitive candidates apart from the field.

The State University of New York at Stony Brook is New York's flagship university and No. 1 public university. It is one of America's most dynamic public universities, a center of academic excellence and an internationally recognized research institution that is changing the world. It is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. After more than 65 years of existence, Stony Brook is ranked #59 among U.S. universities and #26 among public universities in the nation. We are located very close to the vibrant life of New York City and relaxing beaches of the Hamptons. With 3 major airports in the greater NYC area we are well connected with the
entire world.

Special Notes:
The Research Foundation of SUNY is a private educational corporation. Employment is subject to the Research Foundation policies and procedures, sponsor guidelines and the availability of funding. FLSA Exempt position, not eligible for the overtime provisions of the FLSA. Minimum salary threshold must be met to maintain FLSA exemption.

Visit The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs to learn more about our postdoctoral community.

Resume/CV and cover letter should be included with the online application.

Stony Brook University is committed to excellence in diversity and the creation of an inclusive learning, and working environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status and all other protected classes under federal or state laws.

If you need a disability-related accommodation, please call the university Office of Equity and Access (OEA) at (631) 632-6280 or visit OEA.

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The starting salary range (or hiring range) to be offered for this position is noted below, it represents SBU's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.


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