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Controls Engineer Jobs in Athens, AL (NOW HIRING)

Moonshot Aerospace

GN&C Controls Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Moonshot Aerospace is seeking a GN&C Controls Engineer to support spacecraft control system design and analysis for government and commercial customers. Initial assignment will support NASA Marshall ...

Blue Origin

Automation Controls Engineer III

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$82K - $108K/yr

We are looking for an Automation Controls Engineer who brings hands-on experience in industrial controls design and automation systems integration. This role spans R&D, design, build, installation ...

EOSYS Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Decatur, AL · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

... controls and system integration with a strong focus on software design and programming * Ability to handle multiple tasks, have excellent attention to detail and be willing and able to learn new ...

The EOSYS Group, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Decatur, AL

$86K - $114K/yr

... controls and system integration with a strong focus on software design and programming * Ability to handle multiple tasks, have excellent attention to detail and be willing and able to learn new ...

Blue Origin

Controls Engineer Sr

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$197K - $276K/yr

As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will work on various spaceflight systems and share ... and controls application development tools such as Matlab/Simulink (including autocoding ...

Blue Origin

Controls Engineer Sr

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$197K - $276K/yr

As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will work on various spaceflight systems and share ... and controls application development tools such as Matlab/Simulink (including autocoding ...

Moonshot Aerospace

GN&C Controls Engineer (Remote)

Madison, AL · Remote

$85K - $110K/yr

Moonshot Aerospace is seeking a GN&C Controls Engineer to support spacecraft control system design and analysis for government and commercial customers. Initial assignment will support NASA Marshall ...

Blue Origin

Controls Integration Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$130K - $182K/yr

As a Controls Integration Engineer, you will take control algorithms and control laws from analysis into hardware-integrating, tuning, and validating them on avionics and test stands to ensure safe ...

Blue Origin

Controls Integration Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$130K - $182K/yr

As a Controls Integration Engineer, you will take control algorithms and control laws from analysis into hardware-integrating, tuning, and validating them on avionics and test stands to ensure safe ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Athens, AL

Controls Engineer information

See Athens, AL salary details

$53.1K

$93.2K

$126.4K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Athens, AL is $93,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,600.00 and $104,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or stock options, and typically requires advanced knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages like Python or C++.

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 used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators to ensure machinery operates efficiently and safely, often using engineering software and adhering to safety standards. Their role involves troubleshooting, system integration, and optimizing control processes to improve performance.

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 often increase with proficiency in PLC programming, automation systems, and relevant software tools.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries of $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. Senior-level engineers often have 10+ years of experience and expertise in PLC programming, robotics, and system integration.

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.
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Controls Engineer jobs near you

GN&C Controls Engineer

Moonshot Aerospace

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Moonshot Aerospace is seeking a GN&C Controls Engineer to support spacecraft control system design and analysis for government and commercial customers. Initial assignment will support NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), with work spanning programs such as the Human Landing System (HLS), Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS), and related civil and commercial space efforts.

This position requires depth in spacecraft control system design, analysis, and verification. The engineer will contribute to control law development, stability analysis, multi-body dynamics modeling, and performance verification for human-rated and robotic spacecraft. This is an onsite position requiring residence in or relocation to the Huntsville, AL area. Multiple experience levels are available, and responsibilities will scale with demonstrated capability.

Responsibilities

  • Design and analyze spacecraft control systems including attitude control, vehicle stabilization, and pointing
  • Develop control laws and perform stability and performance analysis (gain/phase margins, Bode, Nichols, Nyquist, root locus)
  • Build and maintain 6DOF simulations for control system design verification and Monte Carlo analysis
  • May support multi-body dynamics modeling for docking, descent, and landing operations
  • Perform control system verification analysis for compliance with requirements and flight readiness
  • Develop and analyze propulsion system control interfaces including delta-velocity command and thrust vector control
  • May support flight software integration and testing of control algorithms
  • Contribute to technical documentation, design reviews, and customer deliverables
  • Collaborate with NASA, prime contractor, and subcontractor engineering teams

Required Qualifications

  • U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
  • B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of professional experience in spacecraft or aerospace vehicle control system design and analysis
  • Demonstrated experience with multivariable control system design techniques
  • Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink for control system analysis and simulation
  • Experience with 6DOF simulation development and execution
  • Understanding of spacecraft dynamics, rigid body mechanics, and actuator systems
  • Must be located in or willing to relocate to the Huntsville, AL area
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

  • M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Controls, or related field
  • Experience supporting NASA human spaceflight programs (HLS, Orion, SLS, ISS)
  • RPO/RPOD, Docking, berthing, or contact dynamics simulation and control experience
  • Descent and landing control system design
  • Flexible-body or slosh dynamics modeling and control interaction analysis
  • Flight software development or integration experience (C/C++)
  • Experience with NASA Trick simulation framework or equivalent
  • Active security clearance (Secret or above)
  • Launch vehicle or satellite control system experience
  • Technical publication or conference presentation history