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Control Engineer Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

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

Manufacturing Engineer

Newberg, OR

$76K - $98K/yr

Manufacturing Engineer - Machining The Manufacturing Engineer - Machining designs, implements ... Support appropriate quality control methods for inspection, testing, and process monitoring to ...

New

Manufacturing Quality Engineer

Albany, OR · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Quality Engineer - Aerospace Manufacturing If you would love to be part of a company that is poised ... Responsible for maintaining configuration control documentation through contract review and ...

Manufacturing Quality Engineer

Albany, OR · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Quality Engineer - Aerospace Manufacturing If you would love to be part of a company that is poised ... Responsible for maintaining configuration control documentation through contract review and ...

Quality Engineer - Aerospace Manufacturing If you would love to be part of a company that is poised ... Responsible for maintaining configuration control documentation through contract review and ...

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 ...

Quality Engineer - Aerospace Manufacturing If you would love to be part of a company that is poised ... Responsible for maintaining configuration control documentation through contract review and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 8, 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, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,060 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Senior Electrical Engineer

McCarl's Technical Services

Albany, OR • On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

General Purpose: The Senior Electrical Engineer is responsible for leading the electrical engineering and design of heavy industrial projects across the power, chemical, metals, and oil & gas sectors. The Senior Electrical Engineer ensures engineering deliverables are technically sound, consistent with established standards, and aligned with project schedule, cost, and MTS standards for safety, quality, and efficiency. Sr. Electrical Engineers may individually contribute to a project or may be asked to lead a team of engineers and designers on a project basis.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:Manage the creation of electrical and control deliverables (single line diagrams, lighting plans, panel layout drawings, I/O list, cause & effect matrix, etc.).Review and advise on P&ID design as it relates to electrical and control discipline items.Working knowledge of HMI, SCADA, DCS, PLCs, and ladder logic in modern and legacy systems.Effective cross-discipline and cross-department communication and coordination.Advise on design principles and standards.Provide technical oversight, mentorship, and peer review to engineering staff.Provides technical support on construction or operating sites, as needed.Work on multiple projects on a continuous basis.Ability to safely visit sites to walk down scope and meet with internal and external stakeholders.Provide cost estimating support for electrical/instrumentation proposals (hours, quantities, etc.).Participate in the recruitment, selection, onboarding, and professional development of team personnel.Monitor and report weekly on the status of current design projects.Communicates technical information effectively with clients, subcontractors, and vendors.Effectively communicate and project the principles of the Talent Advantaged Roadmap.Perform other duties as assigned by manager/supervisor.Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline with 8+ years of experience in heavy industry design and construction.Professional Engineer license is preferred.Display a working knowledge of industry standard design practices and phased engineering delivery.Understanding of design codes and standards (ATEX, UL, IEEE, ASCE, ACI, AISC, IBC, NEC, NFPA, etc.) and industry best practices.Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills with all levels in the company.Ability to effectively communicate technical information.Ability to attain and promote good customer relationships (both internal and external).Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.Basic computer skills in Microsoft Word with intermediate skills in Excel and Outlook.Ability to safely visit sites to walk down scope and meet with internal and external stakeholders.Possess (or ability to obtain) OSHA 30.