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Controls Engineer Jobs in Butte, MT (NOW HIRING)

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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.
What cities near Butte, MT are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Butte, MT with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Entry-level Health & Safety Coordinator

Entry-level Health & Safety Coordinator

Woodard & Curran

Butte, MT • On-site

$47K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Woodard & Curran is a national engineering, science and operations firm with a simple vision for clean water, a safe environment, healthy communities and happy people. As an employee-owned company, we strive to cultivate teams that encourage collaboration in an inclusive culture. We seek talented individuals from all backgrounds to help us address a broad range of water and environmental issues. We prioritize our people, offering opportunities for professional growth, ownership and flexibility. This commitment enables us to make a meaningful impact on our clients, communities and the planet. 


Who are we looking for?
 
We are seeking an Entry-level Health & Safety Coordinator to assist in the development and implementation of safety and health programs across multiple project sites in accordance with company policies and safety plans.
 
What will you be doing at Woodard & Curran?
  • Monitor and observe employee and contractor Health and Safety performance on-site.
  • Know and enforce Site-Specific Health & Safety Plans (SSHASPs) and related policies.
  • Lead and facilitate Task Risk Assessments (TRAs).
  • Identify potential hazards and propose corrective measures accordingly.
  • Present and lead safety meeting topics.
  • Be familiar with and complete work permits upon request.
  • Provide safety training for new employees, contractors, and visitors.
  • Ensure employees are adequately equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to perform tasks safely.
  • Ensure accurate and timely incident notifications are entered into corporate and client databases, and prepare lessons learned reports.
Manage Health & Safety Programs
  • Perform and assist in field inspections and audits as necessary.
  • Provide Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) communication across project regions.
  • Assist in developing and delivering HSE training programs (e.g., 8-hour HAZWOPER, First Aid/CPR/AED, Control of Work).
  • Maintain SSHASPs, including Emergency Action Plans.
  • Ensure monthly inspections of fire extinguishers are completed, and coordinate annual maintenance and inspections.
  • Evaluate hazard mitigation methods and ensure their implementation.
  • Provide Federal, State, and local regulatory compliance support when needed.
Provide Incident Management Support
  • Be a resource for safety reporting requirements and support accident and near-miss investigations.
  • Assist and facilitate incident investigations.
OTHER DUTIES (Field Team Support):
  • Be familiar with Task Risk Assessments specific to tasks.
  • Be familiar with the scope of work being performed.
  • Frequently sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, use hands/fingers to handle objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; kneel; crouch; or crawl.
  • Frequently lift and/or move objects weighing up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Have specific vision requirements for tasks (close and distant vision, color vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus).
  • The list of duties is not intended to be all-inclusive, and other duties may be assigned as needed.
Qualifications
  • 1-5 years of experience within the Health & Safety field required.
  • Degree in Safety Science or a related field.
  • Familiarity with federal, state, and local safety laws to ensure compliance with current safety regulations.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 60%.
$47,000 - $60,000 a year
Pay:
This position's anticipated pay range is provided above; final exempt salary or non-exempt hourly pay will be dependent on experience level as well as considering a % based geographic differential based on where the final candidate will be working. Geographic differentials are used to recognize and reflect cost of labor differences between geographic markets.
 
Annual Incentive Bonus Opportunity:
Eligible positions may receive an annual cash bonus based on the role's organizational level, and is represented as a percentage range of eligible earnings.
 

Mutual Dispute Resolution (MDR)

As part of our commitment to a fair and respectful workplace, Woodard & Curran uses a Mutual Dispute Resolution (MDR) to help resolve most employment-related concerns efficiently and consistently.

What this means:

  • MDR applies to both you and the Company
  • Most workplace-related disputes are resolved through binding arbitration, rather than court proceedings
  • Certain exceptions are outlined in the full agreement

If you are offered a position with Woodard & Curran, you will be asked to review and sign the MDR as part of your offer packet.

 Review the full agreement here: Mutual Dispute Resolution Agreement

Employee Support & Benefits

Retirement Savings:

  • 401(k) Pre-tax or Roth Contributions: The company matches 100% of the first 3% of salary contributed

Time away from work:

  • Observed holidays: Choose up to 8 holidays to observe annually
  • Vacation: Accrued based on years of experience and calculated on hours worked
  • Sick time: Paid sick time for non-work-related illness or injury.
  • Parental leave: Up to 80 hours of Paid Parental Leave for child bonding

Coverage and support for your needs and well-being:

  • Disability: Paid short- and long-term disability
  • Health: Medical plan options; plus dental and vision plans.
  • Life: Basic employee group life insurance and AD&D benefits; additional voluntary life insurance for employees and families is available through Sun Life.
  • Wellbeing: DarioMind assistance program combined with personalized mental health and wellbeing resources.

Workplace Information

E-Verify Participation

Woodard & Curran participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. As part of this process, we display the required Notice of E-Verify Participation and Right to Work posters. 

View required Right to Work and E-Verify posters here.

Equal Employment Opportunity & Accessibility

Woodard & Curran is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to non-discrimination and make employment decisions based on job-related factors. Individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact Beth Sweitzer.

View our Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
View the "Workplace Discrimination is Illegal" poster 

Inclusion & Belonging

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and believe diverse perspectives strengthen our ability to serve clients and communities.

As an employee-owned company, we are committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment where employees can grow, contribute fully, and deliver meaningful impact.

Recruitment Agency Policy

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies. Submissions without a signed agreement in place will be considered unsolicited and not eligible for referral fees.

 

Text Message Communication Notice:

To support an efficient hiring process, we may send brief SMS updates or reminders. You may opt out at any time by replying "STOP."

Terms, Privacy & Use of AI in Hiring 

Woodard & Curran Terms of Use

Woodard & Curran Privacy Statement

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support aspects of the hiring process (e.g., application review or resume screening). These tools assist our team but do not replace human decision-making. All final hiring decisions are made by people.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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