1

Controls Application Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Protection & Controls Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

PURPOSE The Controls Engineer plays a key role in providing technical, engineering, and project ... application of protection and controls systems preferred. -Experience testing and commissioning ...

PURPOSE The Controls Engineer plays a key role in providing technical, engineering, and project ... application of protection and controls systems preferred. -Experience testing and commissioning ...

Controls Engineer

Lexington, TN · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Job Summary a Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of ... application of technical skills/analysis drawing from prior experiences, and typically involve ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

The Controls Software Engineer will be a part of a dynamic team of engineers working on the ... They may also participate in product focus groups to gain critical customer application and design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Controls Application Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$45.8K

$100.5K

$138K

How much do controls application engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls application engineer in Tennessee is $100,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,200.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Controls Application Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common among executive roles or specialized senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Most engineering roles in automation and control systems have salaries significantly below that figure, though top executives or consultants in the field may reach or exceed it.

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 around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $110,000 annually.

What does a controls engineer do?

A controls application engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems for machinery and processes, often working with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and automation software. They analyze system requirements, troubleshoot issues, and ensure equipment operates efficiently and safely, typically requiring knowledge of electrical engineering, automation tools, and industry standards.

How does a Controls Application Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Controls Application Engineers frequently work alongside cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as project managers and field technicians. Collaboration often involves translating project requirements into control system designs, integrating hardware and software components, and troubleshooting issues during commissioning. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as you will need to ensure all technical aspects align with broader project goals and client expectations. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, providing opportunities to address challenges and refine solutions together.

What are Controls Application Engineers?

Controls Application Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for machinery, equipment, or industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure systems operate efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming controllers (like PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineers to integrate controls with mechanical and electrical components. They play a critical role in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, energy, and building automation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Application Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Application Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, control systems design, and programming, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and industry-standard automation platforms is typically required, along with certifications like Siemens or Rockwell Automation if applicable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These capabilities ensure the development and implementation of reliable automation solutions that meet project requirements and support operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Controls Application Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Application EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonBachelor's in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and testing control systems; often customer-facingDeveloping, testing, and maintaining control systems; primarily in manufacturing or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in automation, manufacturing, and process industriesCommon in industrial automation, robotics, and manufacturing sectors

Controls Application Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems for specific applications, often working directly with clients. Controls Engineers typically develop, test, and maintain control systems within manufacturing environments. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work settings.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls Application Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and specialized certifications can reach annual salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often reflects expertise in PLC programming, system integration, and project management in complex automation environments.
What are popular job titles related to Controls Application Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Controls Application Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Application Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Application Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Controls Application Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Controls Application Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Application Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,472 per year, or $48.3 per hour.
Protection & Controls Engineer

Protection & Controls Engineer

EPB

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

PURPOSE
The Controls Engineer plays a key role in providing technical, engineering, and project leadership for EPB's electric system. This position is responsible for performing system protection analysis and developing relay protection and control designs, as well as overseeing the installation, performing testing, and troubleshooting these systems. The role includes substation design and engineering support for distributed energy resource (DER) projects. The role will also oversee the installation and modification of substation equipment, line devices, and underground devices. As EPB's electric system continues to evolve, the Controls Engineer will contribute to the design and implementation of improvements involving technologies such as battery storage, solar, and electrification initiatives. The position may also support projects aimed at enhancing operational processes, increasing efficiency and effectiveness, improving system reliability, and elevating overall customer satisfaction.
DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES
-Use engineering expertise and analytical tools to evaluate electric system performance and develop strategies that improve reliability, reduce costs, and enhance customer service.
-Develop plans to maximize EPB's investment in electric system infrastructure, including analysis of automation technologies and distributed energy resources.
-Perform data analysis to understand and improve electric system operations; utilize current technology to perform data retrieval/transformation, database development, and report writing.
-Identify trends, patterns, and relationships within electric system data to support informed decision making.
-Develop and refine processes that improve operational efficiency, effectiveness, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
-Establish measurable metrics to evaluate the impact of system and process improvements.
-Plan and manage projects, including logistics, resources, operating conditions, analysis schemes, and modifications. Coordinate internal and external resources to complete projects in a timely and cost-effective manner.
-Research emerging utility technologies and provide recommendations to Electric System leadership.
-Oversee the maintenance and optimization of EPB's fleet of distributed energy resources (DER). Provide engineering support for DER projects.
-Create, evaluate, and maintain specifications for purchasing new equipment for the electric system. Evaluate vendor proposals for new equipment.
-Perform system protection analysis and develop relay protection and control designs. Oversee the installation, perform testing, and troubleshoot these systems.
-Perform substation design and provide engineering support for substation projects.
-Create and modify protective relay settings. Perform function testing and commissioning.
-Oversee the installation and modification of substation equipment, line devices, and underground devices.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
-Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree in Electrical, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline.
-8+ years of progressive experience or training in a related field.
-Proficient in Microsoft Office skills at the intermediate level, data systems, and have a working knowledge of computer systems and software.
-Proficient in database analysis and reporting tools helpful in retrieving and analyzing large amounts of data to reach conclusions and develop improvement plans.
-Demonstrated ability to lead projects to completion on time and within budget.
-A background in electric utility operations and technology preferred.
-Technical proficiency in the design and application of protection and controls systems preferred.
-Experience testing and commissioning protection and control systems preferred.
-Working knowledge of computer aided design (CAD) software such as MicroStation or AutoCAD preferred.
-Proficiency in GIS, OMS CAD, and specific EPB software (Enquesta, GTECH, GTViewer, etc) preferred.
-Some experience with electric utility software applications (CYME, Milsoft, ETAP, etc.) for analyzing distribution systems preferred.
CERTIFICATIONS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS
-Possess and maintain a current, valid driver's license in state of residence and demonstrate safe and responsible operation of motor vehicles. Must be insurable under the company's insurance policy.
-A Professional Engineering license is preferred but not required.
-Must be a self-starter with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
-Based on the project, may function as a team member and/or team leader as applicable.
-Ability to design and update electrical drawings with a high degree of accuracy and thoroughness.
-Ability to perform relay testing and commissioning with a high degree of accuracy and thoroughness.
-Project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and stakeholder collaboration for cross-functional teams.
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS and PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
-The work environment typically represents a standard office setting while occasionally working outside on all types of terrain and weather conditions.
-While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; sit; use hands, handle, or feel; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
-While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to extreme weather conditions and often rough terrain. The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions, extreme cold, extreme heat, and the risk of electrical shock.
WHO WE ARE
Recognized by J.D. Power among the best in the country for customer satisfaction four years running, EPB is one of America's largest publicly-owned energy providers. EPB is also the pioneering communications company that surprised the nation by being the first to offer gigabit speed internet services comprehensively to all residents and businesses in our market-four years before Google Fiber launched its first deployment. EPB delivers internet speeds of up to 25 gigabits per second as a standard offer to both homes and businesses along with television and telephone services.
With the fiber optic network as the communications backbone we deployed the most advanced and automated smart grid power distribution system in the U.S. As a result, EPB has become a major research partner for the U.S. Department of Energy and Oak Ridge National Laboratory for field-testing technology and best practices including the deployment of cutting-edge smart grid equipment, micro-grid control systems, integrated storage, and much more.
A GREAT PLACE TO CALL HOME
EPB is located in Chattanooga, TN, a city that Outside Magazine called the "Best Ever." Built along both sides of the Tennessee River in a valley surrounded by mountains, Chattanooga is well known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation along with having the world's fastest internet which earned it the name "Gig City." Chattanooga also offers award-winning, downtown living, a thriving food scene, and a surprisingly low cost of living with no state income tax. As a result, Liviability.com includes Chattanooga among its Top 100 Best Places to Live and Top 10 Downtowns.

EPB logo

About EPB

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Utilities

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chattanooga, TN, US

Year founded

1935