1

Control Theory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Knowledge of control theory (PID and PI control). * Project Management Experience. * Knowledge of Continuous Processing lines. * Knowledge of Rolling Theory. * Strong background in mathematics.

This is a senior-level role within our R&D Algorithm Development team, requiring deep expertise in control theory, signal processing, physiological systems, and algorithm development for medical ...

Principal Control Systems Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$139.50 - $185.55/hr

This role requires comprehensive understanding of advanced control theories, concepts, and principles to lead complex projects and solve unique technical challenges. The Principal Engineer will ...

New

This role requires deep expertise in flight controls and control theory as well as strong leadership capabilities to build and scale a high-performing team. You will collaborate with the flight ...

$90 - $125/hr

Knowledge of control theory (PID and PI control). * Project Management Experience. * Knowledge of Continuous Processing lines. * Knowledge of Rolling Theory. * Strong background in mathematics.

New

Controls Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Stay current with advancements in control theory, robotics, and real-time systems. What You'll Need: * A strong passion for controls engineering and autonomous systems. * Master's degree in ...

Controls Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Stay current with advancements in control theory, robotics, and real-time systems. What You'll Need: * A strong passion for controls engineering and autonomous systems. * Master's degree in ...

Thermal Controls R&D Engineer

Chandler, AZ

$81K - $105K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled Thermal Controls R&D Engineer with expertise in control systems engineering, including both classical control theory and modern AI/ML-based approaches. This role ...

Showing results 41-60

Control Theory information

See salary details

$12

$24

$39

How much do control theory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for control theory in the United States is $24.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is control theory?

Control theory is a field of engineering and mathematics that deals with the behavior of dynamic systems and how to influence that behavior using feedback and control mechanisms. It is widely used in engineering disciplines to design systems that maintain desired outputs despite disturbances or uncertainties. Examples include cruise control in cars, automatic pilots in aircraft, and industrial automation systems. Control theory provides the mathematical tools and techniques needed to analyze, design, and optimize such systems.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in control theory roles, and how can they overcome them?

Professionals in control theory often face challenges such as modeling complex dynamic systems accurately, dealing with uncertainties or changing environments, and ensuring robust performance in real-world applications. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—can help address these challenges, as can staying updated with the latest theoretical advancements and simulation tools. Continuous learning and practical experimentation are crucial for developing innovative, effective control solutions that meet industry needs.

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

To thrive as a Control Theory Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, systems engineering, and dynamic modeling, typically supported by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering. Familiarity with simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, and experience with programming languages like Python or C++, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help professionals excel when designing and optimizing control systems. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable, efficient, and innovative control solutions that meet complex engineering challenges.

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

AspectControl TheoryControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in engineering, mathematics, or related fields; advanced knowledge in control principlesEngineering degree, often with specialization in control systems; certifications like INCOSE or IEEE are common
Work EnvironmentTheoretical research, academic settings, or early-stage developmentDesign, develop, and implement control systems in industrial, automotive, or aerospace industries
Industry UsageUsed in academia, research, and as foundational knowledge for control systemsApplied in manufacturing, robotics, automotive, and aerospace sectors

Control Theory focuses on the mathematical and conceptual foundations of controlling dynamic systems, while Control Systems Engineers apply these principles to design and implement real-world control solutions. Both roles are interconnected, with Control Theory providing the theoretical basis for Control Systems Engineering practice.

More about Control Theory jobs

What job categories do people searching Control Theory jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Control Theory jobs are:

Infographic showing various Control Theory job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,826 per year, or $24.4 per hour.

Specialist, Systems Engineer Control Analyst /GNC

L3Harris Technologies

Huntsville, AL

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Specialist, Control Systems Analysis Engineer (Systems Engineer)

Job Code: 38007

Job Location: Huntsville, AL

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days - totaling 80 hours worked - and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

The Models, Simulations, and Controls department is seeking an engineer for a full-time position to support advanced missile propulsion development programs.

This position focuses on the requirements, modeling, analysis, simulation, and control development of controllable solid rocket motor and throttling propulsion systems for current and future aerospace and defense applications. The role is ideal for engineers with experience in control systems, guidance/navigation/control (GNC), flight dynamics, actuation systems, dynamic modeling, and/or propulsion system analysis.

We are seeking candidates with a strong foundation in either aerospace control theory/GNC or propulsion system analysis. Because this is a specialized application area, the selected candidate will receive domain-specific training and will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of propulsion, avionics, software, and test engineers.

You will work on a highly specialized and technically challenging class of aerospace control problems involving controllable solid propulsion systems. This role offers the opportunity to apply core controls and GNC skills in a unique, high-impact area while partnering with a collaborative team across propulsion, avionics, software, and systems engineering.

Essential Functions:

  • Perform control algorithm design, analysis, and evaluation for solid rocket motor throttling and related actuation systems.
  • Support modeling and analysis of propulsion system dynamics, including steady-state and transient performance.
  • Develop and apply dynamic models and simulations for aerospace control systems and controllable propulsion systems.
  • Develop and use engineering tools in MATLAB/Simulink and C/C++ for simulation, analysis, and control development.
  • Support development of system, subsystem, and component-level requirements.
  • Collaborate with avionics, software, systems, propulsion, and test engineering teams to support integrated system development.
  • Support ground test and system test activities.
  • Prepare and present technical work products for internal reviews, customer briefings, and program milestones.
  • Support multiple ongoing and future development efforts in a cutting-edge engineering environment.
  • Travel: 10% Offsite testing as required.
  • Ability to obtain a US Secret Security Clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree and minimum 4 years of prior technical experience in controls, GNC, propulsion analysis, simulation, or related aerospace systems work experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 6 years of prior technical experience in controls, GNC, propulsion analysis, simulation, or related aerospace systems work experience. In lieu of a degree, a minimum of 8 years of prior technical experience in controls, GNC, propulsion analysis, simulation, or related aerospace systems work experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, Systems Engineering or related technical discipline is preferred.
  • Active U.S Secret Security Clearance is preferred.
  • Experience in one or more of the following areas:

    control systems analysis or control theory

      • guidance, navigation, and control (GNC)
      • dynamic system modeling and simulation
      • actuator/system response modeling
      • vehicle dynamics, flight dynamics, or propulsion system analysis
  • Experience working in a classified environment.
  • Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and at least one programming language such as C, C++, or Python.
  • Experience with aerospace controls, GN&C, missile/munition control systems, flight simulation, or vehicle performance analysis.

  • Experience with propulsion systems, especially propulsion controls, throttling systems, integrated propulsion/vehicle modeling, or propulsion test support.

  • Experience with high-fidelity simulation, time-domain analysis, and control system performance assessment.

  • Familiarity with 6-DoF or reduced-order dynamic simulations, actuator models, or hardware/software integration.

  • Experience supporting test planning, test execution, hardware-in-the-loop/software-in-the-loop activities, or post-test data analysis.

  • Experience developing or evaluating embedded or real-time control-related software.

  • Test and evaluation of dynamic aerospace systems

#LI-HW1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time