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Controls Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Johnson Controls

Controls Systems Technician

Appleton, WI · On-site

$23.56 - $34.50/hr

Join the Johnson Controls family and thrive in a culture that values your voice and ideas. Your ... Provides sketches of field changes and discrepancies for engineering corrections and drawings.

CMD CORPORATION

Automation Engineer Lead

Appleton, WI · On-site

Work closely with electrical and controls engineers to ensure complete system design (without owning PLC/HMI development). * Partner with operations, maintenance, and manufacturing engineering to ...

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Controls Engineer information

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$52.3K

$91.9K

$124.7K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Appleton, WI is $91,909.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $102,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Controls Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:
What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Appleton, WI as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,909 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Building Automation Controls Designer

Building Automation Controls Designer

Johnson Controls

Greenville, WI • On-site

$26 - $37/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 386 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 512 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
About Us:
Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.
For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward
What we offer
  • Competitive hourly rates
  • Paid vacation/holidays/sicktime
  • Comprehensive benefits package including 401K, medical, dental, and vision care - Available day one
  • Extensive product and on the job/cross training opportunities with outstanding resources
  • Encouraging and collaborative team environment
  • Dedication to safety through our Zero Harm policy
  • JCI Employee discount programs (The Loop by Perk Spot)

What you will do
Under direct supervision and using established standards, responsible for hardware designs and software programming for HVAC control systems to meet the intent of the project requirements. Provides detailed information and submittals to communicate design and operation to customers, consultants, Johnson Controls field installation team and subcontractors. Responds to basic warranty calls.
How you will do it
  • Selects hardware designs from standard design library for flow diagrams, sequence of operations, bill of material, network layouts and electrical schematics as required.
  • Performs software programming using established standards as a basis of design.
  • Coordinates the creation of necessary drawings and equipment schedules for submittals and installation.
  • Selects, orders, and tracks the delivery of materials for assigned projects. Coordinates factory-mounting processes to meet factory and project schedule.
  • Assists in the loading and commissioning of all system and network-level controllers as required. Assists in validation of complete system functionality and troubleshoots problems with subcontractors and other trades to ensure proper operation.
  • Gathers field changes from the project team and creates as-built drawings and software. Prepares proper documentation and/or manuals for system operation.
  • Keeps management and JCI contractor or customer informed of job progress and issues.
  • Assists in performing site-specific training for owner/operator on the total system.
  • Completes paperwork including but not limited to time sheets, expense reports, and on-site documentation.
  • Adheres to safety standards. High degree of regard to employee and subcontractor safety.

What we look for
Required
  • University degree and 1 year suggested minimum experience, or 2 year degree and 6 years suggested minimum experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience with installing and/or commissioning controls systems including system-level controllers
  • Demonstrated knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and control systems.
  • Demonstrated technical aptitude.
  • Demonstrated advanced computer skills required

Preferred
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical /Electrical Engineering or Computer Science

HIRING HOURLY RANGE: $26-$37 (Hourly rate to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us
#techhiring
Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

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