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Controls Engineer Jobs in Montana (NOW HIRING)

Tetra Tech

Electrical Engineer - Controls

Billings, MT · On-site

$90K - $155K/yr

Must have 5-10 years of experience in Electrical or Controls Engineering, with Oil and Gas experience preferred. * P.E. preferred * Proficient with P&IDs, IO lists, circuit schedules, communications ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Montana

Controls Engineer information

See Montana salary details

$50.5K

$88.6K

$120.2K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Montana is $88,640.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,600.00 and $99,100.00 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.
More about Controls Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Montana? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Montana are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Montana? For Controls Engineer jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Montana look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Montana are:
What cities in Montana are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Montana with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in MT? For Controls Engineer jobs in MT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Montana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,640 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Instrument & Controls Engineer

Colonial Staffing Group

Billings, MT • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

This position will be based in either Salt Lake City, UT; Billings, MT; or Anchorage, AK. 
 

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

  • Provide instrument engineering for small to large capital and maintenance projects
  • Develop project P&IDs of moderate complexity
  • Develop procurement specifications, documentation, and data sheets of basic to moderate complexity
  • Develop detailed specifications and construction packages
  • Write detailed construction scope of work documents for basic to moderately complex projects
  • Perform Factory and Site Acceptance tests (FAT/SAT) on vendor equipment. Travel may be required.

EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS

  • B.S. in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical or Control Systems Engineering - required
  • 3+ years of professional experience within the oil and gas or related industry - required
  • P.E. or Prof. Eng. in Control Systems Engineering - preferred
  • ISA or TUV certification in Functional Safety - preferred

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES - TECHNICAL

  • Read and develop Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
  • As-build control and instrument systems in the field, producing accurate markups of documents and drawings
  • Specify and size instrumentation in all applications of industrial control: flow, pressure, level, temperature
  • Specify and size control valves and regulators: self-contained, pneumatic, sliding stem and rotary
  • Integrate control strategies and wiring with electrical motor controls related to motor starters, VFDs, electrical safety relays, electrical monitoring networks, etc.
  • Specify HMI, PLC, and DCS hardware and wiring.
  • Understand physical and soft I/O and point types, create I/O lists for project scope, and review loop drawings
  • Basic understanding of design considerations for control panel layout, wiring, BOM, etc.
  • Working knowledge of industrial equipment (pumps, vessels, heaters, flares, etc) and respective considerations for instrument design

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES - OTHER

  • Familiar with and able to work within stage-gated project processes and requirements