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Controls Engineer Jobs in Butte, MT (NOW HIRING)

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Anaconda, MT

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Butte, MT

$95K - $114K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Griffin Global Systems

Process Engineer

Butte, MT

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline. A Master's degree is highly valued. * 3-7 years of relevant industry experience. * Hands-on ...

Quora

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Helena, MT · On-site

$202K - $234K/yr

This role is ideal for an engineer who's curious, pragmatic, and motivated by real-world impact - not just research or prototypes. You'll lay the groundwork for how we approach internal AI ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Butte, MT

Controls Engineer information

See Butte, MT salary details

$53.4K

$93.7K

$127.2K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Butte, MT is $93,737.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $104,800.00 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.
More about Controls Engineer jobs
What cities near Butte, MT are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Butte, MT with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you

Process Development Engineer

VeeRteq Solutions Inc.

Butte, MT • On-site

$82K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Role : Process Development Engineer
Location : Butte, MT
Prioritized Must Have Skills for the Process Development Engineer:

#1. Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or closely related field (Master’s preferred)

#2. 3–7 years of hands-on process development or applied R&D laboratory experience

#3. Strong experience in experimental design, execution, and disciplined documentation with traceable data capture

#4. Experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, spectroscopy, imaging, or similar methods

#5. Proven ability to troubleshoot laboratory and pilot-scale processes and work cross-functionally, with strong adherence to SOPs, safety standards, and HSE practices

Responsibilities of the Process Development Engineer:

  • Execute structured laboratory and pilot-scale experiments to support process and technology development
  • Maintain disciplined experimental practices with high-quality documentation and traceable data capture
  • Perform analytical testing and manage, organize, and interpret experimental datasets
  • Translate results into clear technical summaries and actionable next steps
  • Troubleshoot equipment, experimental setups, and process performance issues in lab and pilot environments
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, controls, and chemical engineering teams, along with operations and materials functions, to ensure test readiness and execution
  • Support safe lab operations by following SOPs, maintaining proper housekeeping, and adhering to HSE standards
  • Manage chemical inventory, SDS documentation, and overall lab organization
  • Contribute to process development, validation, and scale-up from lab to pilot and operational environments
  • Present technical findings to internal teams and external stakeholders

Requirements of the Process Development Engineer: 

  • B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science or a closely related discipline, M.S. degree of strong value
  • 3 to 7 years of experience
  • Hands-on laboratory experience
  • Ability to execute experiments safely with disciplined documentation and traceable data capture
  • Familiarity with routine analytical methods (HPLC, GC, Spectroscopy, imaging, etc.)
  • Practical troubleshooting capability and comfortable working in laboratory and pilot-plant environments
  • Strong Chemistry Background
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong proficiency in data reduction and visualization (Excel, Matlab, Python, etc.)
  • Strong work ethic and team player attributes

Preferred Qualifications of the Process Development Engineer:

  • Experience with mixing processes is a plus
  • Strong understanding of fundamental chemical process concepts (mass balance, heat transfer, material handling)
  • Experience writing test plans and test reports, or working in a documentation-driven environment
  • Experience with advanced statistical methods including Design of Experiments (DOE) plans and implementation using statistical tools (JMP, Minitab, etc.

Other Key Requirements:

  • Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates
  • Work on-site