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Controls Design Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

BAS Controls Engineer

Franklin, TN ยท On-site

$90 - $110/hr

Join a Tier-1 Leader in Energy & Automation Solutions A global powerhouse in building automation and energy management is seeking a skilled BAS Controls Design Engineer for its Franklin, TN office.

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Controls Design Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$54.5K

$83.6K

$107.1K

How much do controls design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls design engineer in Tennessee is $83,584.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,100.00 and $94,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,584 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

BAS Controls Engineer

ControlsJobs

Franklin, TN โ€ข On-site

$90 - $110/hr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Join a Tier-1 Leader in Energy & Automation Solutions

A global powerhouse in building automation and energy management is seeking a skilled BAS Controls Design Engineer for its Franklin, TN office. This position is ideal for engineers with hands-on experience designing Building Automation Systems (BAS) for commercial, mission-critical, and high-efficiency facilities.

  • Compensation: $90,000 โ€“ $110,000 base + 10% bonus
Ideal Candidate:
  • 3โ€“5 years of experience designing BAS/DDC systems
  • Strong proficiency with AutoCAD or MS Visio for drawings and control layouts
  • Familiar with industry-standard protocols (BACnet, Modbus, LON)
  • Capable of developing Sequences of Operation, wiring diagrams, and network topologies
  • Bachelorโ€™s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering preferred
What Youโ€™ll Do:
  • Analyze bid documents and produce cost-efficient BAS design solutions
  • Create electrical, mechanical, and architectural plansโ€”including bills of materials
  • Design DDC control systems, including valve schedules, panel layouts, and system schematics
  • Develop network architecture for BAS servers, operator workstations, and field-level devices
  • Prepare submittal packages, RFIs, and engineering updates for customer approval
  • Work closely with Project Managers and Sales teams during design handoff and site reviews
  • Provide commissioning documentation and design support to field installation teams
Company Snapshot:
  • Global automation and energy technology leader with 135,000+ employees across 100+ countries
  • Recognized Tier-1 provider of smart building, IoT, and data center technologies
  • Innovator in sustainability, controls, and intelligent infrastructure solutions
Whatโ€™s Offered:
  • Bonus: 10% annual target
  • 401(k) with 6% company match (immediate vesting)
  • Paid Time Off: 3โ€“6 weeks based on years of service
  • 12 Paid Holidays (including 2 floating holidays)
  • Company Laptop and Phone
  • Paid Family Leave + Sabbatical Opportunities
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