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Control Engineer Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Join ENTEK as a Senior Control Systems Engineer ENTEK is excited to welcome a Senior Control Systems Engineer to our growing team. If you're looking for a place where your expertise is valued, your ...

... control. • Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to improve yield, reliability, and ... OR • PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a ...

Conti Federal Services is a leading global construction and engineering company that has delivered ... Responsibilities include daily quality control reporting, subcontractor management, submittal ...

... control. • Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to improve yield, reliability, and ... OR • PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a ...

... control. • Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to improve yield, reliability, and ... OR • PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a ...

... control. • Develop and optimize manufacturing processes to improve yield, reliability, and ... OR • PhD in Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a ...

Serve as a technical resource within areas of expertise, including fluid control technologies as ... Proficiency with 3D CAD, engineering documentation, and product lifecycle management tools.

Serve as a technical resource within areas of expertise, including fluid control technologies as ... Proficiency with 3D CAD, engineering documentation, and product lifecycle management tools.

Embark with us on a journey of growth and transformation as we create exceptionally engineered ... Design of experiments, Statistical Process Control (SPC), Computational Data Skills Overlay ...

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Showing results 1-20

Control Engineer information

See Salem, OR salary details

$55.3K

$97.1K

$131.7K

How much do control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for control engineer in Salem, OR is $97,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $108,500.00 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, PLCs, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often requiring knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. Control engineers also troubleshoot system issues and optimize performance to meet operational goals.

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 is a control engineer?

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?

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.

Do I need a degree to be a control engineer?

A control engineer typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in engineering, such as electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering. Relevant skills include knowledge of control systems, programming, and experience with tools like PLCs and MATLAB; some roles may prefer or require advanced degrees or certifications. Practical experience and technical skills are also important for success in this field.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $120,000 annually.
What are popular job titles related to Control Engineer jobs in Salem, OR? For Control Engineer jobs in Salem, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Control Engineer job openings in Salem, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,060 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

$85K - $145K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Description

Join ENTEK as a Senior Control Systems Engineer
ENTEK is excited to welcome a Senior Control Systems Engineer to our growing team. If you're looking for a place where your expertise is valued, your ideas drive innovation, and your work directly impacts advanced manufacturing technology, this is it.As a Senior Controls Engineer, you'll play a key role in designing, developing, and commissioning industrial automation systems that power ENTEK's manufacturing operations and customer equipment. You'll work alongside talented engineers, technicians, and project teams to deliver reliable, high-performance automation solutions.
What You'll DoAs a Senior Controls Engineer, you'll bring technical expertise and leadership together to develop and support industrial control systems across a wide range of manufacturing equipment and processes.

In this role you will:

  • Design, develop, and implement PLC and HMI control systems for automated manufacturing equipment
  • Write, modify, and troubleshoot PLC code and HMI applications
  • Use P&IDs, functional descriptions, electrical schematics, and scope documents to develop control strategies
  • Lead equipment startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting at ENTEK facilities and customer locations
  • Develop project scopes, track schedules, and monitor project budgets
  • Perform I/O checkout and system validation testing
  • Supervise on-site installation and commissioning activities
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and process engineering teams
  • Mentor junior controls engineers and controls technicians
  • Support after-hours troubleshooting when necessary

This is a role where your expertise drives real-world results-bringing complex automation systems to life while improving reliability, efficiency, and safety.



Requirements

 What We're Looking ForWe're seeking experienced controls engineers who enjoy solving complex problems, leading technical efforts, and delivering high-quality automation systems. The ideal candidate thrives in a collaborative environment and takes pride in seeing projects through from concept to startup.


What Makes You a Great Fit

Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or equivalent experience
  • Five (5) or more years of controls engineering experience
  • Experience designing and commissioning industrial automation systems
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical documentation
  • Experience with PLC programming and HMI development
  • Experience troubleshooting automation systems in a production environment
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Ability to track project milestones and timelines
Preferred Qualifications

Experience with one or more of the following:

  • Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal and associated hardware
  • Rockwell Studio 5000 / Allen-Bradley PLC platforms
  • Siemens S120 or G120C drives
  • Allen-Bradley PowerFlex 755 drives
  • Ignition (Perspective or Vision)
  • ERP systems such as Microsoft Dynamics 365
  • Machine commissioning and startup experience

Job Locations

This position may be based at one of the following ENTEK locations:

  • Henderson, Nevada
  • Lebanon, Oregon
  • Wake Forest, North Carolina


What Makes ENTEK Different

ENTEK is more than a manufacturing company-we're a team driven by values. Our core DNA is built on:

  • Respect - valuing each person and every contribution 
  • Integrity - doing what's right, always 
  • Innovation - pushing boundaries with creativity and technology 
  • Commitment - to our people, our customers, and our futureWhen you join ENTEK, you're not just taking a job-you're becoming part of a company that invests in your growth, development, and success.


Compensation & Benefits include:

  • 401(k) with 4% match
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) options
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • Life insurance
About ENTEKENTEK makes products that impact people in every corner of the globe. Our diverse team spans a wide array of disciplines, and whether you are a welder, engineer, scientist, production associate, or machinist, you will work toward a common goal - making ENTEK the best it can be for customers, employees, and the community. Our success is fueled by consistently living our core values of respect, integrity, innovation, and commitment.Our team is dedicated to getting a little bit better every day. Are you ready for something great in your career?
Learn more about us at www.entek.com and discover the opportunities waiting for you.ENTEK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ENTEK is a drug-free and non-smoking work environment.