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Controls Engineer Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

About the Role In this vital engineering role, you will be part of a team of controls and maintenance professionals who proactively support operations and provide customers with expert-level support ...

DevSecOps Engineer II

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Coach engineers on secure coding, pipeline controls, and risk-based prioritization. * Support incident command activities for high-impact security events. * Participate in on-call rotation ...

Coach engineers on secure coding, pipeline controls, and risk-based prioritization. * Support incident command activities for high-impact security events. * Participate in on-call rotation ...

Coach engineers on secure coding, pipeline controls, and risk-based prioritization. * Support incident command activities for high-impact security events. * Participate in on-call rotation ...

Design, implement, and improve identity and access management controls across enterprise ... Corporate Security Engineering * Secure and manage corporate endpoints across macOS, Windows, and ...

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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 Automation Engineer

$100K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


International Flavors & Fragrances rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary
IFF is a global leader in flavors, fragrances, food ingredients and health & biosciences. We deliver sustainable innovations that elevate everyday products.
Health & Biosciences: Channeling our passion for nature and bioscience into sustainable, life-enhancing technologies that power innovative solutions across healthcare, food, consumer, and industrial markets.
Located at the DuPont Experimental Station, this role supports a business that applies science, engineering and bioscience innovation to develop enzymes, cultures, probiotics and other solutions that help improve product performance, advance sustainability and enhance health and wellness across multiple markets.
Be part of a collaborative, solution-oriented, and innovative team where together we can achieve greatness and make a real impact. Your potential is our inspiration.
As part of this team, the Senior Automation Engineer will help enable reliable, efficient and scalable operations in a highly collaborative R&D environment. We are seeking a Senior Automation Engineer who can design, implement, and evolve automation systems in a flexible R&D environment, with strong PLC programming skills, hands-on system integration experience, and the ability to translate process needs into robust control and data solutions.
Where You'll Make a Difference
  • Design and support automation for flexible, experimental process systems, requiring frequent modification, rapid iteration, and integration of new instrumentation.
  • Collaborate closely with engineers, scientists and technicians to translate process requirements into control strategies and data systems.
  • Own automation systems from concept through implementation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
  • Programming and maintaining PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and data historians.
  • Select, integrate, and troubleshoot process instrumentation (e.g., flow, pressure, temperature, gas analysis)
  • Diagnose and resolve issues in field wiring, I/O signals (analog/digital), and industrial communication networks
  • Provide hands-on support, including working within electrical enclosures, validating signals, and commissioning control systems
  • Support automated data collection, reporting systems, and integration with local networks

What Makes You the Right Fit
  • 7+ years as an automation and/or controls integration engineer in an industrial or R&D setting.
  • Development of non-Ladder Logic PLC automation systems to control existing processes and field instruments.
  • Knowledge and experience implementing and managing custom SCADA and MES.
  • Safety oriented approach to system design and control logic.
  • Familiarity with electrical system design, including panel layouts, I/O architecture, and applicable standards (UL 508A, NFPA 70E).
  • Understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g. OPC, Modbus, serial communication).
  • Experience using SQL for database updating and retrieval.
  • Excellent record keeping and attention to detail.
  • Team player with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, evolving R&D environment.

How Would You Stand Out?
  • B.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 natural language query (NLQ) and AI-enabled analytics platforms.
  • Proficiency with data visualization tools such as Spotfire and statistical software such as JMP.
  • Experience with database development and management.
  • Ability to work effectively within existing corporate network and firewall constraints.
  • Experience supporting automation initiatives across both industrial and R&D environments.
  • Hands-on troubleshooting experience within electrical enclosures.

Why Choose Us?
  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs
  • Competitive retirement savings plan with company contribution
  • Generous paid time off, holidays, and parental leave
  • Career development programs and tuition reimbursement opportunities
  • Employee assistance programs and well-being resources
  • Collaborative work environment with opportunities to contribute to impactful innovation

We are a global leader in taste, scent, and nutrition, offering our customers a broader range of natural solutions and accelerating our growth strategy. At IFF, we believe that your uniqueness unleashes our potential. We value the diverse mosaic of the ethnicity, national origin, race, age, sex, or veteran status. We strive for an inclusive workplace that allows each of our colleagues to bring their authentic self to work regardless of their religion, gender identity & expression, sexual orientation, or disability.
Visit IFF.com/careers/workplace-diversity-and-inclusion to learn more

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