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Controls Engineer Jobs in Alexandria, MN (NOW HIRING)

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Controls Engineer information

See Alexandria, MN salary details

$52.9K

$92.9K

$126K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Alexandria, MN is $92,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,300.00 and $103,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

More about Controls Engineer jobs

What cities near Alexandria, MN are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Alexandria, MN with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Alexandria, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,895 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Field Service Technician

Douglas Machine, Inc.

Alexandria, MN • On-site, Remote

$31 - $43/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Key responsibilities

  • Install, service, and repair Douglas Machine automated packaging machinery.

  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and programming issues on packaging machines and resolve them.

  • Travel a minimum of 75% of the time to perform tasks at customer sites and communicate with supervisory personnel.

Job description

Description
JOB SUMMARY:
The Field Service Technician has the skills and the knowledge to install, service, and repair Douglas Machine automated packaging machinery. Service work may include, but not limited to performing routine maintenance, repairs, modification, machine setup, or training of customer personnel. In addition, this position requires extensive travel to customer sites.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned:
  1. Steward our mission (to enrich lives by providing differentiated packaging automation and services) and values (unwavering integrity, servant's heart, ownership spirit and continuous innovation and improvement).
  2. Demonstrate the "6+1 ways" customer service model at all times.
  3. (Applies to Remote Technicians) Remote technician is expected to be in communication with Douglas supervisory personnel daily, Monday through Friday and when appropriate on Saturday and Sunday. To facilitate this communication the technician should be available via company furnished cell phone. This phone would be used only for work related calls. If a separate telephone line were required at the technicians home to facilitate transfer of information (FAX or internet), the technician would pay for the installation and Douglas would pay for usage charges.
  4. Must be able and willing to travel a minimum 75% of the time to perform tasks at customer sites.
  5. Troubleshoot packaging machines and resolve a high percentage of mechanical, electrical, and programming issues with some assistance.
  6. Communicate effectively with field service advisors to resolve technical issues.
  7. Maintain a positive, professional relationship with customer personnel.
  8. Document pertinent technical and customer information to facilitate an ongoing business relationship.
  9. Produce and submit very accurate and complete trip and expense reports in a timely manner.
  10. Be proactive at learning new components and design principles as they are introduced.
  11. Proactively identify product/service sales opportunities at customer sites that will enhance customer's packaging processes.
  12. Assist with the training of new technicians.
  13. Provide informal (hands on) training for customer's employees.
  14. Comply with all safety policies and procedures.
  15. Assist with related tasks and projects.

QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Must be able and willing to apply required customer service skills.
- Must have the skills to produce and submit complete and accurate trip and expense reports in a timely manner.
- Must have good mechanical and electrical background in a manufacturing or production environment, preferably in the packaging manufacturing industry.
- Must have knowledgeable of automated machine controls.
- Must be able to read and follow blueprints, machine drawings, and electrical drawings.
- Must be proficient with use of a laptop computer and related software.
- Must be able to use a variety of machine and hand tools.
- Must be able and willing to travel a minimum 75% of the time.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
Must have a two year technical degree in a related field and one year of demonstrated work experience in the packaging manufacturing industry or a high school diploma and three years of demonstrated work experience in the packaging manufacturing industry or related technical field.
OTHER INFORMATION:
All full-time positions offer attractive compensation and benefits that include ESOP stock allocation, 401(k) match, a company health clinic, medical, dental, life and disability insurance, volunteer time off, along with holiday pay and paid time off.
As a global leader in the packaging automation industry, Douglas has grown and prospered the right way through supporting our employees, customers, partners, competitors and the world around us with integrity and respect. Be an employee owner. Douglas offers an exceptional environment to achieve your career goals with a positive culture that encourages input and fosters growth at all levels. We believe in teams building strong relationships and working together towards a common vision that aligns with our mission and values.

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