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Controls Designer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

DISHER

Controls Engineer

Knoxville, TN · Hybrid

$79K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer - (Hybrid) Knoxville, TN - (Remote) West Michigan DISHER is currently partnering ... Ensure control panel and system designs meet UL requirements (e.g. UL60335-2-40) and support UL ...

SGF Global

Be Seen First

Controls Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$90/hr

Controls Engineer Location: Nashville, TN Job Type: Full-Time | Contract Pay: $92.59 per hour ... This role is responsible for designing, implementing, optimizing, and maintaining industrial ...

Carlex Glass Company

Regional Controls SME

Nashville, TN

$79K - $102K/yr

Lead controls scope for capital projects, equipment launches, and retrofits, ensuring on-time ... Review and approve integrator-developed designs, code, FAT/SAT protocols, and commissioning plans

Carlex

Regional Controls SME

Nashville, TN · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Lead controls scope for capital projects, equipment launches, and retrofits, ensuring on-time ... Review and approve integrator-developed designs, code, FAT/SAT protocols, and commissioning plans

Lancesoft

Controls Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$91.24/hr

This role leads controls integration efforts for processing and packaging while ensuring ... Ability to read and develop electrical schematics and panel designs. * Experience supporting high ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Church Hill, TN

$77K - $100K/yr

Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer designs, programs, and maintains industrial control and automation systems, ensuring reliable operation of manufacturing equipment and processes. This role ...

Hoffman & Hoffman Inc

Controls Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$29 - $38.25/hr

The Controls Technician will handle start up and commissioning of DDC SYSTEMS by following ... designed. * DIRECTS ELECTRICAL SUBCONTRACTORS by prioritizing areas of completion; answering ...

Hoffman & Hoffman Inc

Controls Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$29 - $38.25/hr

The Controls Technician will handle start up and commissioning of DDC SYSTEMS by following ... designed. * DIRECTS ELECTRICAL SUBCONTRACTORS by prioritizing areas of completion; answering ...

Hoffman & Hoffman Inc

Controls Technician

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$24.75 - $32.50/hr

... Controls Technician will handle start up and commissioning of DDC SYSTEMS by following ... was designed.   * DIRECTS ELECTRICAL SUBCONTRACTORS by prioritizing areas of completion ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Maryville, TN

$50 - $60/hr

Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, debugging, and supporting automated systems and automation equipment for production. This role requires providing ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Maryville, TN

$50 - $60/hr

Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, programming, debugging, and supporting automated systems and automation equipment for production. This role requires providing ...

Automationtechies

Automation & Controls Engineer

La Vergne, TN · On-site

$79K - $105K/yr

Work for an automated machine-building company that designs and manufactures custom machinery for ... Join their team in La Vergne, TN as a Controls Engineer ! Why work here: The company promotes a ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Designer JobsControls Designer Jobs in Tennessee

Controls Designer information

See Tennessee salary details

$16

$35

$57

How much do controls designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls designer in Tennessee is $35.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.39 and $41.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of teams or departments do Controls Designers typically collaborate with during a project?

Controls Designers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure that control systems are seamlessly integrated into larger automation projects. They also interact with project managers to align on timelines and objectives, and may consult with procurement or manufacturing teams to select suitable components. This cross-functional collaboration is key to ensuring that the designed systems meet performance, safety, and cost requirements throughout the project lifecycle.

What are Controls Designers?

Controls Designers are professionals who design and develop control systems for machinery, equipment, or industrial processes. They create detailed electrical schematics, select control hardware and software, and ensure systems meet safety and operational requirements. Controls Designers often collaborate with engineers and technicians to integrate automation solutions, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance. Their work is essential in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy, where automated control systems improve efficiency and reliability.

What is the difference between Controls Designer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls DesignerControls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or industrial engineering; certifications like PLC or automation certifications are common.Requires similar degrees; often holds professional engineering (PE) license and advanced certifications.
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused, often in office settings or design labs, collaborating with engineers and clients.More fieldwork, testing, and troubleshooting on-site or in manufacturing environments.
Industry UsageUsed in automation system design, control panel layout, and schematic development.Involved in system implementation, testing, and optimization of control systems.

While both roles require technical knowledge of control systems and similar educational backgrounds, Controls Designers primarily focus on creating and drafting control system designs, whereas Controls Engineers are more involved in implementing, testing, and maintaining these systems in real-world settings.

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

To thrive as a Controls Designer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, automation systems, and experience with control panel design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in CAD software (such as AutoCAD Electrical), PLC programming, and familiarity with industry standards like NEC or IEC are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex project requirements. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing reliable, efficient, and compliant control systems that meet client and regulatory expectations.
What are popular job titles related to Controls Designer jobs in Tennessee? For Controls Designer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Designer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Designer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Designer jobs in TN? For Controls Designer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Controls Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Designer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,346 per year, or $35.3 per hour.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

DISHER

Knoxville, TN • Hybrid

$79K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Controls Engineer - (Hybrid) Knoxville, TN - (Remote) West Michigan

DISHER is currently partnering with an innovative thermal management solutions company in search of a Controls Engineer to join their team. This organization focuses on advanced cooling technologies that help customers improve performance and efficiency across a range of industries. They are a fast-growing startup innovating the best process cooling equipment in the industry, and they’re looking for a Controls Engineer to join their growing team. In this role, you’ll design, develop, test, and improve electrical and control systems for our chiller products, working cross-functionally with mechanical, sales, manufacturing, and supply chain teams. 

This role may be either hybrid in Knoxville, TN area or remote from West MI.

What it's like to work here:

The company is values-driven and focused on delivering cutting-edge cooling solutions through innovation, precision, and collaboration. Team members operate in a fast-paced, hands-on environment where they are encouraged to take ownership, contribute ideas, and continuously improve processes. You’ll join a growing, team-oriented organization that emphasizes both professional development and measurable results while maintaining an entrepreneurial and forward-thinking culture.

What you'll get to do:
  • Develop control system architectures and schematics for new and revised products.
  • Design and specify electrical panels, enclosures, wiring harnesses, I/O layouts, and component selection for production and serviceability.
  • Create and maintain electrical (AC & DC power, control) schematics, and work with other designers/engineers to release backplane assembly and wire harness drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs) and manufacturing work instructions.
  • Develop and troubleshoot Carel PLC software for chiller control.
  • Ensure control panel and system designs meet UL requirements (e.g. UL60335-2-40) and support UL certification/submission activities; coordinate with testing labs or certifying bodies as needed.
  • Perform risk assessments, design reviews, and DFMEA for control systems; implement safety controls and interlocks per applicable standards.
  • Support product validation: develop test plans, perform commissioning, debug field issues, and iterate designs for manufacturability and reliability.
  • Collaborate with mechanical and manufacturing teams to balance cost, manufacturability, and performance for low-to-mid volume production.
  • Provide technical support for customers and field service teams; create troubleshooting guides and training material.
  • Work with suppliers and manufacturing to support production ramp-up, product & process development, and cost reduction.
  • Create / process Engineering Change Requests (ECR’s) and Orders (ECO’s).
  • Troubleshoot field and production issues; provide root-cause analysis and corrective actions.
  • Ensure product designs meet applicable regulatory, safety, and quality standards.
  • Support project planning, schedule tracking, design reviews, and documentation.
What will make you successful:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years’ experience in controls engineering or related role, focused on product design for low-to-mid volume manufacturing.
  • Hands-on PLC programming experience (Carel, Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent); HMI/SCADA development experience preferred.
  • Working knowledge of UL certification process and UL panel-building requirements (e.g. UL508A).
  • Proficient with electrical CAD/schematic tools (EPLAN, AutoCAD Electrical, or similar) and experience producing manufacturing documentation.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (EtherNet/IP, Modbus, Profinet, etc.).
  • Strong troubleshooting and commissioning skills; experience with on-site commissioning is a plus.
  • Demonstrated competence with specifying industrial control components: motor starters, VFDs, contactors, relays, safety devices, and enclosures.
  • Clear technical writing skills and experience creating BOMs, wiring diagrams, and build instructions.
  • Excellent problem solving, collaboration and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with UL submission paperwork and working directly with testing labs.
  • Experience with low-to-mid volume manufacturing processes and DFM for electrical assemblies.
  • Familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems and version control.
  • Relevant certifications (e.g., Rockwell/Siemens, NFPA 79 knowledge, safety certifications).
  • Hands-on prototyping and/or test experience.
  • Background in Lean Product Development principles & tools.
  • Basic budgeting and cost containment skills.
  • Basic understanding of ISO 9000 (or similar quality system) design requirements
  • Resilience working in a fast-paced, evolving startup environment with shifting priorities
Physical Requirements
  • Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and work with prototype hardware.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.