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Control Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Sr Control Systems Engineer, Knoxville

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$159K - $165K/yr

The engineer will work with other control systems engineers, other disciplines/functions, and/or the client. The successful candidate must have strong organizational and teamwork skills, proven ...

Sr Control Systems Engineer, Knoxville

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$143K - $148K/yr

The engineer will work with other control systems engineers, other disciplines/functions, and/or the client. The successful candidate must have strong organizational and teamwork skills, proven ...

QC Lab Technicians

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Act as first escalation point for abnormal data, equipment issues, or safety concerns before reporting to QC Engineers. * Input and maintain analysis data in designated systems with high accuracy.

QC Lab Technicians

Clarksville, TN

$17.25 - $21.75/hr

Act as first escalation point for abnormal data, equipment issues, or safety concerns before reporting to QC Engineers Input and maintain analysis data in designated systems with high accuracy.

QC Lab Technicians

Nashville, TN

$19 - $24.25/hr

Act as first escalation point for abnormal data, equipment issues, or safety concerns before reporting to QC Engineers Input and maintain analysis data in designated systems with high accuracy.

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Control Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$49.9K

$87.7K

$118.9K

How much do control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for control engineer in Tennessee is $87,652.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,800.00 and $98,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a control engineer do?

A control engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that manage machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation. They work with sensors, actuators, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often using tools like MATLAB or SCADA software. Control engineers also troubleshoot system issues and optimize performance to meet operational requirements.

What are the common challenges a Control Engineer faces when integrating new automation systems with existing infrastructure?

Control Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment or outdated infrastructure. These challenges include compatibility issues, communication protocol mismatches, and limited documentation for older systems. To overcome these obstacles, engineers must collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—such as IT, process engineers, and equipment vendors—to ensure seamless integration and minimal disruption to operations. Proactive troubleshooting, robust testing, and clear documentation are also crucial for successful implementation.

What engineers make $500,000?

Control engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and specialized certifications can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially in senior or executive roles within large corporations or high-demand industries. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires years of expertise in designing and managing complex control systems.

What are Control Engineers?

Control Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that manage and regulate the behavior of other devices or systems. They use principles from engineering, mathematics, and computer science to create automated processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Their work often involves designing control systems for machinery, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability of operations. Control Engineers may also program and troubleshoot controllers like PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) and work closely with other engineering disciplines to optimize system performance.

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

To thrive as a Control Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, control theory, and process automation, typically backed by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), SCADA systems, and industry-standard software such as MATLAB or Simulink is essential, with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) being advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for designing solutions and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Control Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControl EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Automation Engineering; similar certifications often applicable
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesManufacturing, robotics, process automation, software development
Employer & Industry UsageFactories, power plants, automation service providersManufacturers, tech companies, system integrators

Control Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for machinery and processes, while Automation Engineers often work on integrating automation solutions, including software and robotics, to improve efficiency. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial settings, but Control Engineers tend to concentrate more on control hardware and systems, whereas Automation Engineers emphasize automation software and systems integration.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in manufacturing, automation, or process control environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Control engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and specialized certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing. Senior-level engineers in these fields often work on complex projects and may have leadership responsibilities that contribute to higher compensation.
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Engineer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Control Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What job categories do people searching Control Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Control Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Control Engineer job openings:

Control Systems Field Engineer - Memphis

Logical Systems LLC

Memphis, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Control Systems Field Engineer- Memphis
Control Systems Field Engineers work to maintain automation systems that control processes or machines in the desired manner. The engineer will service instrumentation, control valves, Motors/VFDs, control system electrical design, and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Distributed Control System (DCS) configuration to continuously deliver an automation system that meets the user's needs.
Control Systems Field Engineers demonstrate:
  • High integrity
  • A willingness to go beyond the ordinary to meet and exceed client expectations
  • A desire for continual challenge and development
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

This specific position is for the Memphis, TN area. We are also hiring positions available at the following locations:
  • Chattanooga, TN
  • Denver, CO
  • Jackson, TN
  • Little Rock, AR
  • Phoenix, AZ

Reports To: Operations Director
JOB QUALIFICATIONS
Roles and responsibilities for this job may include but are not limited to:
  • PLC and/or DCS configuration
  • Organize project data into manageable spreadsheets and databases
  • Human-Machine Interface (HMI) graphics development and SCADA configuration
  • Historian configuration
  • Perform I/O checkout on the installed control system and document the checkout results
  • Provide post-commissioning support to the client's operations, engineering, and maintenance personnel
  • Travel to the client's site as required. Extensive travel required.
  • The ability to provide after-hours telephone support on a rotating schedule.

Required Experience
  • 10+ years experience maintaining automation systems and keeping production/operations running.

Healthcare and Insurance Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
  • Company-paid Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment
  • Long-Term Disability Insurance (LTD)
  • Short-Term Disability (Supplemental Option)
  • Voluntary Life Insurance (Supplemental Option)
  • Health Savings Accounts & Flexible Spending Accounts

Wellbeing Benefits
  • Paid Holidays and Vacation
  • Retirement - 401K and Roth 401K w/Company Match
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Dependent Care (FSA)
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Fitness Membership Reimbursement
  • Paid Time-off for Charitable Involvement