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Controls Engineer Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Controls Engineer

Jonesboro, AR

$83K - $109K/yr

Senior Controls, Automation & Robotics Engineer This Senior Controls, Automation & Robotics Engineer role leads the automation strategy, controls team, and continuous improvement initiatives at a ...

Selects manufacturing controls equipment; prepares specifications, confers with vendors and prepares capital appropriations; * Responsible for advising Manager, Engineering as to plant equipment ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Little Rock, AR ยท On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

Selects manufacturing controls equipment; prepares specifications, confers with vendors and prepares capital appropriations; * Responsible for advising Manager, Engineering as to plant equipment ...

Control Engineer

Jonesboro, AR ยท On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer (Rockwell Automation) Location: Jonesboro, Arkansas (Onsite) Experience: 10+ Years Job Summary: We are looking for an experienced Controls Engineer to support automation and ...

The Controls Engineering Manager will lead a team of controls engineers and technicians, set departmental goals, and collaborate with other departments to drive the strategic vision of the ...

Automation Controls Engineer

Blytheville, AR ยท On-site

$75K - $99K/yr

Develop and design electrical and controls system schematics and drawings based on engineering principles using AutoCAD/SolidWorks. * Ability to read, interpret and troubleshoot electrical schematics ...

Automation and Controls Engineer

Fayetteville, AR ยท On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

The Automation and Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and troubleshooting electrical control systems in the MARSHALLTOWN production facility. They manage the electrical and ...

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Controls Engineer information

See Arkansas salary details

$45.5K

$79.9K

$108.3K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Arkansas is $79,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems critical to industrial and manufacturing environments.

What does a controls engineer do?

A Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation. Controls Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize existing systems, implement upgrades, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Their expertise is crucial for improving productivity, reducing downtime, and integrating new technologies into production environments.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsDesign offices, research labs, power plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications, industrial systems
Common Search/ComparisonControls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with machinery and PLCs. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. While both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, Controls Engineers specialize more in automation and control systems, whereas Electrical Engineers may work across various electrical disciplines.

What are common challenges faced by controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design standards, timelines, and communication styles. They must ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with hardware and software components while also meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Controls Engineers often act as a bridge between technical disciplines to troubleshoot issues and implement solutions efficiently.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Arkansas? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Arkansas? For Controls Engineer jobs in Arkansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Arkansas look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Arkansas are:
What cities in Arkansas are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Arkansas with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Arkansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,857 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Maintenance - Controls Engineer

National Material L.P.

Russellville, AR โ€ข On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

PLC Controls Engineer
- VISA Sponsorship not available for this position
Since 1973, Taber Extrusions has been a leading manufacturer of aluminum extrusion-based products for OEMs in markets ranging from Military, Department of Defense, Aircraft/Aerospace, Marine/Shipbuilder, Boat Docks, Platforms, Decking, Motor Housing, Electronics, Heat Sinks, Automotive, Rail, and Structural Components. Taber is headquartered in Russellville, Arkansas and operates two manufacturing sites in Russellville and one manufacturing site located in Gulfport, Mississippi. The Company is segmented into five operating units; Extrusion, Cast House, Fabrication, Friction Stir Welding and Micro Extrusion. Taber has continued to make ongoing investments in their value-added capabilities by recently expanding their Russellville facility to house their new friction stir welder and new state-of-the-ton press with 16" container designed for larger, complex profiles with tighter tolerances for aerospace, defense, and heavy industrial customers.
Taber Extrusions in Russellville, AR is currently seeking a PLC Controls Engineer for its Maintenance Department. The successful candidate with have experience in the design, development and optimization of industrial automation systems. This role ensures efficiency, quality, safety, and cost-effectiveness by designing, programming, and trouble shooting control systems while working with other departments in the facility as part of a team. If you feel you are ready to meet the challenge, review the more detailed description below and apply today to become the next member of the Taber Team.
Job Summary
The PLC Controls Engineer will design, develop, and maintain control systems for industrial automation. This role involves programming PLCs, troubleshooting control systems, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure efficient and safe operation of automated equipment.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, etc.).
  • Develop and modify HMI/SCADA systems for operator interfaces.
  • Integrate sensors, actuators, and other control devices into automation sytems.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to support new equipment installations and upgrades.
  • Perform system testing, validation, and commissioning of control systems.
  • Maintain documentation including electrical schematics, control logic, and system configurations.
  • Provide technicial support for maintenance and operations teams.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, codes, and regulations (e.g., NFPA, OSHA)
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system performance and reliability.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, controls systems engineering, or a related field required.
  • 3-5 years previous experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
  • Proficiency in PLC programming languages.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley (RSLogix 5000/Studio 5000, Siemens (TIA Portal), or similar platforms.
  • Familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems (Factory Talk, WinCC, Ignition).
  • Understanding of industrial communication protocols (Ethernet/IP, Modbus, Profibus).
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and P&IDs

We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law.