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Controls Design Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

We're seeking a Jr/Mid level Electrical Engineer who can support electrical, instrumentation, and controls design within a high-technology manufacturing environment. This role requires a strong blend ...

Proficient in the design of low voltage power distribution systems and lighting systems, including ... Minimum of five (5) years electrical and industrial controls engineering experience in Water ...

Electrical Design Engineer

Tempe, AZ ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Electrical Design Engineer Department: Electrical/Energy Employment Type: Full Time Location: Tempe ... Minimum of five (5) years electrical and industrial controls engineering experience in Water ...

Proficient in the design of low voltage power distribution systems and lighting systems, including ... Minimum of five (5) years electrical and industrial controls engineering experience in Water ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer in the Design group at SV Microwave, you will: * Develop manufacturable ... This position requires access to controlled technology that is subject to US export controls.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ ยท On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

As a Mechanical Engineer in the Design group at SV Microwave, you will: * Develop manufacturable ... This position requires access to controlled technology that is subject to US export controls.

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Design Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$55.9K

$85.8K

$110K

How much do controls design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls design engineer in Arizona is $85,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,000.00 and $97,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Controls Design Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Controls Design Engineers frequently work cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with the overall machinery or process. They often participate in design reviews, coordinate interface requirements, and troubleshoot issues that arise during system integration. Clear communication and teamwork are essential, as controls must align with both hardware constraints and operational objectives. This collaborative environment fosters learning and can open doors for career advancement into project management or specialized technical roles.

What does a Controls Design Engineer do?

A Controls Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing control systems used to operate machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They create schematics, select control components, and program controllers to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely. Their work often involves collaborating with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to integrate complex automation solutions. Additionally, they troubleshoot existing systems and optimize performance to meet project requirements.

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

To thrive as a Controls Design Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, control systems, and automation, generally supported by a degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with PLC programming, CAD software (such as AutoCAD or EPLAN), and relevant industry certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and address complex technical challenges. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable design of automation systems that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What is the difference between Controls Design Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls Design EngineerElectrical Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing control systems for automation and machineryDesigning electrical systems, circuits, and components for various applications
CertificationsOften requires PLC, automation, or control system certificationsTypically requires electrical engineering licensure or degrees
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation firms, industrial settingsPower plants, electronics companies, consulting firms
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower, electronics, construction

Controls Design Engineers focus on creating control systems for automation and machinery, often requiring specialized certifications. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, designing electrical circuits and systems across various industries. While both roles involve electrical knowledge, Controls Design Engineers specialize in automation controls, making their work more application-specific.

Infographic showing various Controls Design Engineer job openings in Arizona as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,819 per year, or $41.3 per hour.
Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Phoenix, AZ โ€ข Hybrid

$84K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source. Our nuclear power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR). This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group. Due to this influx of work, Sargent & Lundy has a need for several I&C Engineers.

This is a senior design engineering position that offers a variety of interesting and challenging opportunities in nuclear Instrument and Controls Engineering and will provide an excellent opportunity to advance your career. You will interface with the discipline engineers and designers on the Project Team and with the client to ensure all client requirements are satisfied. 

You will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:

  • Digital Systems -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreen displays, network switches and control systems
  • Functional Requirement and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants
  • Process instrumentation replacement evaluation reports
  • Prepare documentation for design input for drawing production including  cable block diagrams and schematics
  • Interface with vendors and prepare equipment purchase specifications
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements
  • Attend client meetings and perform site walkdowns to ensure the client is satisfied with our work product
  • Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced nuclear instrumentation and controls design engineer

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.


We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential Skills:

  • BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • 5+ years of experience in design engineering for process control systems
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • Experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control system
  • PE license

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$84,762 - $129,498
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, weโ€™ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!


Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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