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Control Systems Engineer Jobs in South Dakota (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer II

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$86K - $132K/yr

Engineering and Technical Job Type for Job Posting: Full Time Working Mode for Job Posting: Fully ... control, mapping, ISOBUS, and service - by translating customer and stakeholder needs into system ...

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Showing results 1-20

Control Systems Engineer information

See South Dakota salary details

$61K

$108.8K

$175.5K

How much do control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for control systems engineer in South Dakota is $108,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a control systems engineer?

Control systems engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that control and automate the operation of equipment or processes. They use principles from engineering, mathematics, and computer science to ensure that machinery and processes operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Control systems engineers work in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and automotive, where automated control and precision are essential. Their responsibilities often include creating and testing control algorithms, integrating sensors and actuators, and troubleshooting system issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a control systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering along with expertise in control theory and system dynamics. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, industrial networking, and programming languages such as ladder logic or MATLAB/Simulink is typically required, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the design, implementation, and optimization of safe, efficient, and reliable automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by control systems engineers in fast-paced industrial environments?

Control Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected system faults under tight deadlines, integrating new automation technologies with legacy equipment, and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including process engineers, IT specialists, and maintenance staff—is essential to address these issues efficiently. Staying current with evolving industry standards and cybersecurity practices also plays a critical role in maintaining reliable and safe control systems.

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

AspectControl Systems EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Control Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test control systems in manufacturing, automation, or robotics industriesDesign, develop, and test electrical systems in power, electronics, or communication sectors
Industry UsageCommon in automation, robotics, manufacturing, and process controlWidespread across power generation, electronics, telecommunications, and industrial sectors

Control Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated control systems, while Electrical Engineers work on broader electrical systems. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but their industry applications and daily tasks differ.

Are control systems engineers in demand?

Control systems engineers are in high demand due to their role in designing and maintaining automation and control systems across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. The growing adoption of industrial automation, robotics, and smart technologies increases employment opportunities for these engineers, especially those with skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and relevant certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in South Dakota?

The most popular types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in South Dakota are:

What are popular job titles related to Control Systems Engineer jobs in South Dakota?

For Control Systems Engineer jobs in South Dakota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Control Systems Engineer jobs in South Dakota look for?

The top searched job categories for Control Systems Engineer jobs in South Dakota are:

Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer job openings in South Dakota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,776 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Lead Control Systems Engineer

Automatic Systems Co

Sioux Falls, SD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

*This is a remote position with travel - including day and overnight travel within NE Iowa and periodic overnight travel throughout the Midwest*
COMPANY SUMMARY
Automatic Systems Company is an industry-leading provider of water, wastewater, and industrial control systems. We are dedicated to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional service to our clients. With a focus on excellence and continuous improvement, we strive to make a significant impact in the field of automation and control systems.
POSITION SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Control Systems Engineer to provide advanced programming services for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), primarily supporting municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities. This role is responsible for leading control system development, startup, commissioning, and customer coordination for large-scale SCADA projects.
The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise in PLC/HMI platforms, experience commissioning complex control systems, and the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
This position offers the opportunity to work on critical infrastructure projects supporting municipal water and wastewater systems and industrial control systems while helping shape secure and modern control systems for essential public utilities.
KEY DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Develop and write PLC and HMI programs for medium and large-scale, complex municipal water and wastewater SCADA systems.
• Assist with performing Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) to validate PLC and HMI programs ensuring they meet safety and quality standards. Design and perform simulations to verify the logic and functionality of the control systems.
• Perform full project startup and control system commissioning, including instrumentation, motor control devices, and related equipment.
• Serve as technical lead on assigned projects, providing guidance to engineers, technicians, and subcontractors.
• Commission and troubleshoot communications networks including fiber optic systems, radio telemetry, broadband, and other associated technologies. Primary communication protocols include EtherNet/IP, Modbus TCP/RTU, DNP3, OPC UA, and MQTT.
• Support implementation of industrial cybersecurity best practices including network segmentation, user access management, secure remote access, and backup strategies.
• Develop, review, and manage all project documentation in accordance with company standards and project-specific requirements.
• Communicate effectively with customers throughout design, construction, startup, and aftermarket support phases.
• Provide advanced troubleshooting and problem resolution during system integration and post-installation.
• Support proposal development, scope definition, and technical review when required.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
• None
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience and/or an Associate degree in an automation-related field. 10+ years of relevant experience will be considered.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive programming experience in industrial automation and control systems, including:
o PLC programming such as Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, RSLogix 500, Modicon, Siemens S7, GE PACSystems, or similar platforms.
o HMI programming such as Wonderware, FactoryTalk View SE, Ignition, VT SCADA, Cimplicity, Intellution, or similar platforms.
• Demonstrated experience leading large-scale municipal water and wastewater SCADA projects.
• Strong knowledge of instrumentation, motor control systems, process control strategies, and system integration.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact professionally with field personnel, engineers, contractors, management, and municipal clients.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to quickly learn and implement new technologies and industry best practices.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within assigned territory
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Information Technology experience (industrial networking, cybersecurity, system architecture) is a plus.
Travel Requirements
• Expected travel is approximately 30-45% overall, including day and overnight travel within Iowa and periodic overnight travel throughout the Midwest.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
This position includes both office-based engineering and field-based commissioning activities at municipal water and wastewater treatment facilities. Candidates should be comfortable working in industrial environments and performing hands-on startup, testing, and troubleshooting. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit. The employee frequently is required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. Standard office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles. The noise level in the work environment is minimal.]
Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
#LI-Remote
#LI-GL
#AutomaticSystemsCo
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.