1

Controls Application Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Join us as a Controls Project Engineer . Location Type: The position is onsite in Nashville, TN ... application's, and device communication networks (DNET, ENET, and Profibus). * Ability to ...

Join us as a Controls Project Engineer . Location Type: The position is onsite in Nashville, TN ... application's, and device communication networks (DNET, ENET, and Profibus). * Ability to ...

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 ...

Controls Engineer

Chattanooga, TN

$76K - $98K/yr

... Application Support Support and interact with in-house applications utilizing C# and VB.NET Assist with minor updates, troubleshooting, and integration of plant systems Collaboration & Communication ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN

$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 ...

Controls Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

... Application Support Support and interact with in-house applications utilizing C# and VB.NET Assist with minor updates, troubleshooting, and integration of plant systems Collaboration & Communication ...

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.
Controls Project Engineer

Controls Project Engineer

Hitachi, Ltd.

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Location:
Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
Job ID:
R0116651
Date Posted:
2026-06-19
Company Name:
WRIGHT INDUSTRIES, LLC
Profession (Job Category):
Engineering & Science
Job Schedule:
Full time
Remote:
No
Job Description:
The Opportunity:
JR Automation, a Hitachi Group Company, is driven to deliver customer success worldwide. We provide intelligent automated manufacturing and distribution technology solutions that transform how the world's leading manufacturers make and distribute products. Our strength is our people and we're always looking to strengthen our team across the globe. Join us as a Controls Project Engineer.
Location Type: The position is onsite in Nashville, TN.
What We Offer:
  • Competitive wages, medical benefits starting your first day, and paid parental leave
  • Opportunity to work on unique, custom automation projects
  • A collaborative, engineering-driven environment
  • Career growth and skill development opportunities
  • A role where craftsmanship and quality truly matter

How You'll Make an Impact:
  • Develops and designs the controls software packages utilizing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), and/or Human/Machine Interfaces (HMI).
  • Examines and understands customer-supplied specifications in order to ensure the functionality of the equipment meets these specifications.
  • Ensures the equipment being started up and commissioned operates in accordance with the customer requirements as outlined in the approved specification.
  • Programs robotic and/or controls equipment per the customer specifications.
  • Performs preventative maintenance as requested by the customer to ensure minimum down-time and optimum operation of machines and equipment.
  • Assists with checking design and details for proper functionality of both his/her work and the work of other engineers.
  • Provides timely, required service documentation relating to all functions performed.
  • Provides technical support and training to the end-user at the customer facility.
  • Ensures products and services continue to be the benchmark within the industry.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to safe work practices while on JR Automation or the customer's premises.

Note: This list of responsibilities is inclusive; however, it is intended to be a guideline for activities.
What You'll Bring:
  • Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering discipline or Technical Diploma with three years of college-level study or related experience or equivalent of. Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Intermediate understanding of electrical circuits, electrical panel design, pneumatic design, hydraulic design, PLC's (Programmable Logic Controller), HMI's (Human Machine Interface), robot programming, VFD's (Variable Frequency Drive), servo application's, and device communication networks (DNET, ENET, and Profibus).
  • Ability to demonstrate strong critical thinking and problem solving skills.
  • Ability to interact professionally with customers, and maintain a positive working relationship, which at times may be under difficult circumstances and/or high-pressure situations.
  • Current or prior JR Automation experience, or experience in the automation industry is strongly preferred.
  • Travel up to 25% to customer sites & other JR locations. Domestic and International.

Disclaimer: JR Automation requires candidates to successfully complete a 10-panel drug screen, physical examination, and background check.
Company Overview:
At JR Automation, A Hitachi Group Company, we discover potential, reimagine limits, and advance industry. When faced with a problem, we find a solution. Together, we push what's possible to automate for tomorrow.
Join our team of 2,000+ at one of our 20+ facilities around the world and be a part of the most experienced team of advanced automation integrators.
Fueled by Possible.
Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job at JR Automation, please send the nature of request and contact information to jrcareers@jrautomation.com. Queries other than accommodation requests will not be responded to.

Hitachi Vantara logo

About Hitachi Vantara

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hitachi Rail is a fully integrated, global provider of rail solutions across rolling stock, signaling, service & maintenance, digital technology and turnkey. With a presence in 38 countries across three continents and over 13,000 employees, our mission is to contribute to society through the continuous development of superior rail transport solutions.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

2017