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Control Systems Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Controls Systems Designer is responsible for developing accurate, production-ready electrical schematics and control panel layouts for industrial and municipal automation systems. This role works ...

The Controls Systems Designer is responsible for developing accurate, production-ready electrical schematics and control panel layouts for industrial and municipal automation systems. This role works ...

The Control Systems Designer/EIT will work under the direction of a Senior Control Systems Engineer or Control Systems Engineer as part of a team responsible for the design of building management ...

The Control Systems Designer/EIT will work under the direction of a Senior Control Systems Engineer or Control Systems Engineer as part of a team responsible for the design of building management ...

The Control System Engineer is responsible for multiple aspects of the design, development, installation, start-up and service of the various equipment control systems offered by the Cogent Family of ...

The Control System Engineer is responsible for multiple aspects of the design, development, installation, start-up and service of the various equipment control systems offered by the Cogent Family of ...

The Control Systems Designer/EIT will work under the direction of a Senior Control Systems Engineer or Control Systems Engineer as part of a team responsible for the design of building management ...

The Control Systems Designer/EIT will work under the direction of a Senior Control Systems Engineer or Control Systems Engineer as part of a team responsible for the design of building management ...

In the role of Control Systems EIT/Designer, we'll count on you to: * Participate in the design of complex supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems * Assist with selection and ...

In the role of Control Systems EIT/Designer, we'll count on you to: * Participate in the design of complex supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems * Assist with selection and ...

In the role of Control Systems EIT/Designer, we'll count on you to: * Participate in the design of complex supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems * Assist with selection and ...

They must be self-motivated with an initiative to deliver high quality, technically excellent control system designs. In the role of Control Systems EIT, we'll count on you to: Participate in the ...

They must be self-motivated with an initiative to deliver high quality, technically excellent control system designs. In the role of Control Systems EIT, we'll count on you to: • Participate in the ...

They must be self-motivated with an initiative to deliver high quality, technically excellent control system designs. In the role of Control Systems EIT, we'll count on you to: Participate in the ...

This includes telecommunications, electronic security (access control, etc.), audio/visual, and building automation systems. Our systems designers collaborate with cross-functional teams and take ...

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Control Systems Designer information

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$17

$38

$62

How much do control systems designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for control systems designer in the United States is $38.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.09 and $45.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Control Systems Designer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControl Systems DesignerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesPower plants, manufacturing, consulting firms, R&D labs
Industry UsageAutomation, robotics, manufacturing, process controlPower systems, electronics, telecommunications, automation
Common Search/ComparisonControl Systems Designer vs Electrical Engineer

Control Systems Designers focus on designing and implementing control algorithms and systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with hardware and software integration. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronics across various industries. While both roles require electrical engineering fundamentals, Control Systems Designers specialize in automation and control system design, making them more aligned for specific automation projects.

What does a controls designer do?

A controls designer develops and implements control systems for machinery and processes, ensuring they operate efficiently and safely. They create control logic, select appropriate hardware and software, and often use tools like PLCs and SCADA systems to design, test, and troubleshoot automation solutions.

What does a systems designer do?

A control systems designer develops and analyzes control strategies for machinery and processes to ensure they operate efficiently and safely. They use tools like CAD software and simulation programs, and often require knowledge of engineering principles, programming, and system modeling. Their work involves designing, testing, and optimizing control systems in various industrial environments.

What are Control Systems Designers?

Control Systems Designers are engineering professionals who develop, plan, and implement systems that control machinery, processes, or devices within industrial and manufacturing environments. They use their knowledge of electronics, software, and mechanical systems to design automated control solutions that ensure efficiency, safety, and reliability. Their work often involves creating schematics, selecting hardware, programming controllers, and testing systems to meet specific requirements. Control Systems Designers collaborate closely with other engineers and technicians to integrate new systems into existing operations.

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

To thrive as a Control Systems Designer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control theory, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, AutoCAD, and industry standards such as ISA or IEC is essential, along with certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) being advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure accurate system design, seamless automation processes, and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, which are critical for delivering reliable and efficient control solutions.

What is the highest paid design job?

Among design roles, control systems designers with advanced expertise in automation, robotics, and programming can earn high salaries, especially in industries like aerospace, defense, and manufacturing. Senior engineers with specialized skills and certifications often top the pay scale, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on experience and location.

What are some common challenges faced by Control Systems Designers when working on multidisciplinary engineering projects?

Control Systems Designers often collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams, which can present challenges in aligning design requirements and timelines. Integrating control systems into larger, complex systems requires clear communication and proactive problem-solving to address compatibility issues or specification changes. Additionally, designers must balance performance, safety, and cost considerations while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Staying adaptable and detail-oriented is essential for success in these dynamic, cross-functional environments.

What jobs can DT get you?

A Control Systems Designer can pursue roles such as automation engineer, control engineer, or systems engineer, focusing on designing, developing, and testing control systems for manufacturing, robotics, or process industries. These positions often require knowledge of PLCs, SCADA, and programming languages like MATLAB or Python, and may involve working in industrial or technical environments. Certifications in control systems or related fields can enhance job prospects.
More about Control Systems Designer jobs
What states have the most Control Systems Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Control Systems Designer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Control Systems Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Control Systems Designer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Control Systems Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,811 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Control Systems Designer

Edgewater Technical Associates

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain instrumentation and control system design packages, including P&IDs, wiring diagrams, loop drawings, control panel layouts, network architecture drawings, and I/O databases.

  • Prepare design documentation, specifications, and construction packages supporting PLC, DCS, HMI, instrumentation, and industrial networking systems.

  • Coordinate controls designs with multidisciplinary engineering teams and support equipment procurement activities.


Job description

Edgewater Technical Associates is seeking qualified candidates for a Control Systems Designer opportunity in Oak Ridge, TN.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a Controls System Designer to support complex process control, test stand, and industrial automation projects involving PLC, DCS, HMI, instrumentation, and industrial networking systems. The Controls System Designer will develop and maintain detailed engineering design packages that support the implementation, testing, commissioning, and operation of advanced control systems used in high-hazard and mission-critical environments.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and maintain instrumentation and control system design packages, including P&IDs, wiring diagrams, loop drawings, control panel layouts, network architecture drawings, and I/O databases.
  • Prepare design documentation, specifications, and construction packages supporting PLC, DCS, HMI, instrumentation, and industrial networking systems.
  • Coordinate controls designs with multidisciplinary engineering teams and support equipment procurement activities.
  • Perform design reviews, field walkdowns, drawing updates, and configuration management to ensure technical accuracy and compliance.
  • Support control system upgrades, testing, startup, commissioning, and operational readiness activities.
  • Interface with vendors, engineers, and project stakeholders to resolve technical issues and implement design solutions.
  • Utilize CAD and engineering software to produce high-quality design deliverables and maintain design databases.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives through engineering automation, digital engineering tools, and standardized design practices.

Qualifications:
  • Associate degree, technical degree, or equivalent experience in Electrical Design, Drafting, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience developing instrumentation and control system designs for industrial, chemical, manufacturing, energy, nuclear, or process facilities.
  • Experience supporting Department of Energy (DOE) facilities.
  • Experience preparing control system design drawings and engineering documentation.
  • Working knowledge of PLC- and DCS-based control systems.
  • Familiarity with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000, and FactoryTalk environments.
  • Experience developing wiring diagrams, loop drawings, control panel layouts, and I/O documentation.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, MicroStation, or equivalent CAD software.
  • Understanding of instrumentation principles, field devices, signal types, and industrial communications.
  • Knowledge of industrial networking concepts including Ethernet/IP, managed switches, and OPC communications.
  • Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Other Job Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship
  • DOE Q Security Clearance

If you are interested in being considered for this position and your resume clearly outlines your relevant experience for this position, please follow the application steps via our website: www.edgewatertech.net/careers
Edgewater will not submit your resume without first having detailed discussions with you and obtaining your permission to do so. We look forward to hearing from you!
WORKING WITH EDGEWATER TECHNICAL ASSOCIATES
Founded in 2003, Edgewater Technical Associates, LLC (Edgewater) is a New Mexico-based small business headquartered in Los Alamos, NM, with five (5) regional offices across the United States to locally support their growing presence at project sites. Edgewater has a proven track record and is a trusted provider of fixed-price construction projects, engineering, and technical services for the Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD), National Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Canadian Commercial Nuclear Industry, and private sector commercial contractors involved in nuclear, high-hazard, or complex operations. Edgewater's experience and guidance ensure that its customers perform hazardous operations, comply with regulatory requirements, and maintain the highest quality and safety standards.
Originally founded to support the Los Alamos National Laboratory, Edgewater now supports customers across the U.S. and Canada. Edgewater has five offices, with corporate headquarters in Los Alamos, NM and regional offices in Carlsbad, NM; Oak Ridge, TN; Aiken, SC; and Richland, WA.
Edgewater is committed to recruiting and maintaining a staff of highly skilled professionals to support our customers. In keeping with this objective, we offer highly competitive salaries and employee benefit packages structured to best suit your needs. We offer multiple individual and family benefit options including paid time off, medical, dental, life, vision, and disability insurance, and a pre- and post-tax 401 (k) retirement account with Company matching contributions and 100% vesting for eligible participants beginning DAY 1.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Edgewater is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, protected veterans, or individuals with disabilities in accordance with EO 14173.
View all Edgewater opportunities at www.edgewatertech.net/careers