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Control Systems Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Create and maintain 3D models for control panels, instrument layouts, and package interfaces ... Proven experience as a Package System Designer / Drafter in power plant or industrial projects

Provide technical input on control system designs through formal and informal project design reviews, in collaboration with project leads and team members. Qualifications * Ability to secure and ...

Provide technical input on control system designs through formal and informal project design reviews, in collaboration with project leads and team members. Qualifications * Ability to secure and ...

Provide technical input on control system designs through formal and informal project design reviews, in collaboration with project leads and team members. Qualifications * Ability to secure and ...

We are seeking a skilled Control System Programmer to join our team in designing, programming, and commissioning audiovisual control systems. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with ...

Develop control system designs, including system architecture, control philosophies, and functional specifications (PLC/DCS/SCADA) * Design, configure, and support PLC, DCS, and HMI/SCADA systems ...

Experience designing Control Systems, including schematics and loops. * Previous work experience with an A&E/Consulting Engineering firm. * Master's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering ...

Experience designing Control Systems, including schematics and loops. * Previous work experience with an A&E/Consulting Engineering firm. * Master's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering ...

Designs control/information system network architectures and control strategies. * Serves as a technical contact for customers. * Has a firm competency of one or more control/information system ...

Designs control/information system network architectures and control strategies. * Serves as a technical contact for customers. * Has a firm competency of one or more control/information system ...

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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.

Packaged Systems Designer

Quest Global

Longmont, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Quest Global rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

237th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

Job Requirements

Who We Are : 

Quest Global is an organization at the forefront of innovation and one of the world’s fastest growing engineering services firms with deep domain knowledge and recognized expertise in the top OEMs across seven industries. We are a twenty-five-year-old company on a journey to becoming a centenary one, driven by aspiration, hunger and humility.

We are looking for humble geniuses, who believe that engineering has the potential to make the impossible, possible; innovators, who are not only inspired by technology and innovation, but also perpetually driven to design, develop, and test as a trusted partner for Fortune 500 customers.

As a team of remarkably diverse engineers, we recognize that what we are really engineering is a brighter future for us all. If you want to contribute to meaningful work and be part of an organization that truly believes when you win, we all win, and when you fail, we all learn, then we’re eager to hear from you.

The achievers and courageous challenge-crushers we seek, have the following characteristics and skills: 

What You Will Do: 

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Packaged Systems Engineer with strong expertise in DCS (Distributed Control Systems) and Balance of Plant (BOP) cabinet engineering for Power plant applications. This role will be responsible for the design, development, integration, and technical support of packaged systems (such as pumps, compressors, turbines, auxiliary skids, etc.), including architecture, internal components, power distribution, and wiring, specifically tailored for DCS/BOP integration with plant control systems. 

This role is part of our Project Engineering design team, and the successful candidate will participate in engineering to design mechanical and packaged systems for interface to steam, hydro, and gas turbine equipment as well as industrial sector balance of plant equipment as part of overall controls conversions, modifications, and upgrades. This role will focus on developing 2D and 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, and documentation for control systems and package equipment, ensuring accuracy, constructability, and compliance with project standards and providing appropriate technical support to order execution functions including controls engineering, global supply chain, project management, field services, and customers.

Under limited supervision, investigates and procures all data required to develop engineering designs. Performs moderate to complex computer aided designs with emphasis on functionality, manufacturing and maintainability. Prepares designs having distinctive design features that can differ significantly from established drafting precedents. Employs the best combination of all preliminary information and contributing data to develop final design. Prepares layout, design and assembly drawings. Learn current manufacturing/business systems for basic cost, inventory and purchasing information. Handles special projects, as assigned.

  • Develop 2D and 3D CAD models for package systems, control cabinets, skids, and related equipment
  • Prepare detailed drawings including GA drawings, layouts, wiring diagrams, terminal plans, and cable schedules
  • Create and maintain 3D models for control panels, instrument layouts, and package interfaces
  • Support integration of package control systems with plant DCS/PLC systems
  • Interpret and apply P&IDs, control philosophies, I/O lists, and specifications
  • Coordinate with system engineers, electrical, instrumentation, and mechanical teams
  • Develop project engineering documentation suitable to meet customer and internal functional requirements
  • Provide technical sales support for generation of customer proposals
  • Develop project specific test specification procedures, and technical manuals
  • Incorporate vendor and OEM data into drawings and models
  • Ensure drawings comply with power plant standards, project specifications, and applicable codes
  • Revise and update drawings based on engineering changes, site feedback, and as-built requirements
  • Support: Provide technical sales support for generation of customer proposals. Engineering documentation support during FAT, SAT, commissioning, installation, troubleshooting and modifications.
  • What You Will Bring:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Instrumentation/Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering (Or Equivalent). At least 5 years of experience in designing and integrating control systems, with a focus on DCS/PLC platforms and BOP cabinet systems. 
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident due to export-controlled nature of work.
  • Experience in upgrading complex control systems, including managing cabinet system architectures and ensuring minimal system downtime during upgrades.
  • Proven experience as a Package System Designer / Drafter in power plant or industrial projects
  • Strong experience in control systems design and drafting
  • Hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling tools (e.g., Autodesk Inventor, EPLAN, SolidWorks, Catia, Unigraphics or similar)
  • Proficiency in 2D drafting (AutoCAD or equivalent)
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs

Technical Skills:

  • Engineering experience in steam, hydro, or gas turbine auxiliary equipment and applications
  • Ability to review contract documentation and customer specifications, and have experience creating equipment specifications and detailed design documentation for the development of appropriate mechanical and packaged systems
  • Knowledge of PLC/DCS systems, instrumentation, and industrial communication networks
  • Experience working with EPC contractors or OEM package suppliers
  • Familiarity with safety-critical systems and their integration into control systems.
  • Experience with electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system layouts.
  • Familiarity with PLM tools and proficiency with both solid modelling and 2-dimensional CAD tools for system design (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, Autodesk Inventor).
  • Familiarity with industrial automation standards and safety regulations (e.g., IEC, ISO).

Soft Skills:

  • Strong attention to detail and document accuracy
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate effectively with various engineering teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Good time management and ability to meet project deadlines
  • Willingness to support site activities when required

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with gas, steam, or combined-cycle power plants
  • Exposure to international projects and multicultural engineering teams
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills

Location: Longmont, CO

Travel: Up to 10%  

 Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program
  • Vision insurance
  • Short/Long Term Disability

Quest Global is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. EOE/AA