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Controls Engineer Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Growing the Building/Controls Team RESPONSIBILITIES: * 50% Field - programming in the field. He would have a laptop but might have to use tools as they are a smaller controls division * 50% Not-In ...

BAS - Controls Tech

Dover, DE · On-site

$30 - $39.50/hr

Knowledge of controls programming and graphics is nice to have COMPANY INFO: * Founded 15 years ago * Clients include Commercial Office, Healthcare, Military, K-12, Data Centers, Manufacturing ...

BAS Controls Technician

Dover, DE · On-site

$38 - $54/hr

BAS Controls Technician - Dover, DE - $38.00-$54.00/hr - Commercial & Institutional Building ... This role involves hands-on installation, programming assistance, troubleshooting, and ...

Associate, Project Controls KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions provides holistic and value-added ... Services include front-end and detailed engineering, procurement, construction services, and ...

Controls Technician, Maintenance

Middletown, DE · On-site

$28.25 - $37.25/hr

Position Summary The Controls Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing ... Works collaboratively with engineering and operations teams to maintain equipment within validated ...

Controls Technician, Maintenance

Middletown, DE · On-site

$28.25 - $37.25/hr

Position Summary The Controls Technician is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing ... Works collaboratively with engineering and operations teams to maintain equipment within validated ...

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align project controls with engineering, procurement, and construction processes. * Evaluate project performance and proactively recommend corrective ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Wilmington, DE

$100K - $132K/yr

S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical/Controls Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; equivalent industry experience may be considered in lieu of a degree. * Familiarity with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineer information

See Delaware salary details

$55K

$96.7K

$131.1K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Delaware is $96,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $108,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Controls engineers in senior or specialized roles, especially those working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or automation, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, often including bonuses and profit sharing. High-level positions typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in programming, system integration, and project management.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level roles in industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing often offer such compensation, particularly for those managing complex projects or leading teams.

What Is a Controls Engineer?

Controls engineers design, develop, and test automated or dynamic systems that are controlled through feedback with sensors or detectors. Examples include automated irrigation systems that can sense moisture levels in soil, or self-driving cars that can navigate congested streets. Controls engineers apply control theory to devices, machines, and processes to attain desired outcomes. They can work on everything from boilers, washing machines, or light switches to complex industrial machinery.

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 exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automation tools are essential in this role.

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. Salaries can also vary based on the complexity of automation systems and the use of tools like PLCs and SCADA systems.

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 Delaware? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Delaware are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Delaware? For Controls Engineer jobs in Delaware, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Delaware look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Delaware are:
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Delaware as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,657 per year, or $46.5 per hour.
Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Wilmington, DE • On-site

$84K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Description

Our electric power generation clients are updating and replacing the power plant control systems with new digital control systems. This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group.  

You will work on major process controls engineering projects for upgrades and modifications to nuclear power plants 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 and nuclear modification packages
  • Mechatronics, Control Systems for pumps, valves, heat exchangers, steam turbines and reactors to improve the functionality of the client's plant
  • 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 engineers
Qualifications

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

Essential skills and experience:

  • BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program with a strong academic background and coursework in analog and digital control systems, systems engineering, mechatronics, or robotics is required.
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience in design engineering for process control systems; Experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control system is preferred
  • Experience with controls system design including applications for low and medium voltage distribution systems and controls for equipment including but not limited to turbines, pumps, feedwater control, and data displays.
  • Experience with power plant instrumentation and controls systems design for either BWR of PWR reactors, including DCS for turbine, control, feedwater control, and data display.
  • Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design
  • Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others.
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

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.
Award-Winning Benefits

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
Compensation Range$84,762 - $129,498Transparency StatementSargent & 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.About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we'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!

Awards & RecognitionEqual Opportunity

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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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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