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Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbia, TN (NOW HIRING)

ControlsJobs

BAS Controls Engineer

Franklin, TN · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

Join a Tier-1 Leader in Energy & Automation Solutions A global powerhouse in building automation and energy management is seeking a skilled BAS Controls Design Engineer for its Franklin, TN office.

Magna

Controls Engineer

Ethridge, TN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Through our robust product engineering, outstanding tooling capabilities and diverse process expertise, we continue to bring lightweight and innovative products to market. Job Responsibilities:

Hitachi

Controls Engineer II

Nashville, TN

$80K - $104K/yr

Our Controls Engineering teams are made of talented engineers who enjoy thinking outside the box with their team to solve practical problems with no standard solution. The projects we work on offer ...

Ultium Cells LLC

Sr Controls Engineer

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

This position is part of a technical team responsible for automation and controls engineering within a highly automated manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include continuous improvement ...

New

Wood Plc

Electrical Controls Engineer II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Applied Intelligence -Automation and Controls is currently recruiting for a Controls Engineer II with extensive experience in our Nashville (Smyrna), TN office.

Wood Plc

Electrical Controls Engineer I

Nashville, TN · On-site

$77K - $103K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Applied Intelligence -Automation and Controls is currently recruiting for a Controls Engineer with extensive experience in our Nashville (Smyrna), TN office.

Magna

Sr. Engineer, Controls

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Supports engineering and maintenance in the development of standards and specifications, including a complete purchase parts list related to controls systems. * Provides technical support for ...

Magna

Sr. Engineer, Controls

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Supports engineering and maintenance in the development of standards and specifications, including a complete purchase parts list related to controls systems. * Provides technical support for ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Columbia, TN

Controls Engineer information

See Columbia, TN salary details

$50K

$87.8K

$119.1K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Columbia, TN is $87,790.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,900.00 and $98,200.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, TN?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, TN are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, TN?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Columbia, TN are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, TN with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Columbia, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,790 per year, or $42.2 per hour.

ELECTRICAL AND CONTROLS ENGINEER

J C FORD COMPANY

Columbia, TN • On-site

$68K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
JC Ford - Tennessee is seeking top talent to take our organization to the next level! We are actively seeking an Electrical and Controls Engineer to join our team.
Essential Functions:
The Electrical & Controls Engineer coordinates closely with the Engineering and Operations staff to design, validate, commission, and troubleshoot electrical and control systems for automated food processing lines and equipment. The qualified candidate will be involved from initial concept through the entire life cycle of production lines and equipment featuring state of the art PLC-based controls with HMI panels. This position requires a high-energy individual with excellent teamwork. Must demonstrate solid judgment in technical problem-solving and analysis. This is a hands-on engineering position that demands effective collaboration with mechanical engineering, project management, fabrication, assembly, supply chain, sales, and customers.
In this role, you will define, implement, and continuously improve best practices for electrical and controls engineering, including preparation of requirements documents, verification and validation plans, and written procedures. You will prepare risk assessments and take appropriate countermeasures to attain technical and project goals. And you will
translate sales requirements into product specifications in accordance with our company product development process.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, detail orientation and analytical/problem solving skills are required. Must be a highly motivated self-starter with the ability to achieve results with minimal direction in a fast-paced environment.
Requirements
Specific Responsibilities Include:
  • Generation of electrical schematics, control panel layouts, IO lists, electrical bills of material, and P&ID diagrams using AutoCAD Electrical
  • Programming using Rockwell CompactLogix and development of HMI interfaces using PanelView
  • Design, verification and validation of safety circuits and programming of safety PLC's
  • Design and implementation of networked systems
  • Troubleshooting electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and combustion control systems
  • Verification and validation of designs to assure compliance with product specifications, regulatory requirements, international standards, and best practices
  • Application of Design for Manufacturing & Assembly (DFMA)
  • Development of test procedures, conduct product testing, and validate for production
  • Development of Root Cause Analyses and Corrective Action Plans
  • Application of FMEA and Risk Analysis to mitigate product risk
  • Collaboration with electrical, controls and mechanical engineering team members to grow technical knowledge base and implement best practices
  • Recommendation of various technology options or approaches for system, process, facility, or program improvements in terms of safety, performance, efficiency, and cost
  • 10-20% travel to domestic and international customer locations as needed to support installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and upgrading of production lines and equipment
  • Collaboration with key suppliers to specify components that meet design requirements, diagnose, and resolve issues, and stay current with new technology and product advancements
  • Delivery of presentations on technical findings and project status to cross functional teams and management

Experience and Background:
  • 3+ years of progressive experience in product development in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously with a high level of autonomy
  • Must have solid technical writing and documentation skills
  • Ability to analyze complex data
  • Strong written and verbal language skills
  • Solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, methodologies, and processes
  • Experience in automated machinery design and manufacturing
  • Effective problem-solving skills
  • Expertise in electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical
  • Knowledge and application of Ladder logic programming
  • Effective use of engineering processes such as ECR/ECN

Preferred Experience and Skills:
  • Heavy capital equipment in the food industry
  • Preparation of P&ID diagrams
  • Communication systems, data logging and analysis
  • Control of automated, PLC-controlled food processing equipment
  • Designing and developing electromechanical assemblies and conveyor systems
  • Design of linear motion driven systems and controls
  • Design for Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, risk/hazard analysis and FMEA
  • ISO 9001 and/or ISO/TS/ATF 16949 quality management
  • ERP and PDM, preferably Autodesk Vault
  • Communication in Spanish

Education:
  • B.S. in Electrical Engineering from ABET accredited university

Physical Requirements
The majority of the job function is performed in an office setting requiring normal safety precautions, but the job will also require from time to time to visit the production floor or customer job sites. Please see RU 91 attached.
JC Ford Company is an equal opportunity employer and drug-free workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability (mental or physical), pregnancy, status as a parent, family medical history, genetic information, political affiliation, military service/protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. We will consider for employment, qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with the requirements of applicable federal, state, or local agencies.
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About J .C. Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

La Habra, CA, US

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