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Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbia, TN (NOW HIRING)

Controls Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Controls Technician eagle Controls is seeking qualified professionals to join our Controls team. eagle Controls uses the most advanced, user-friendly automation systems in the market. eagle designs ...

Controls Systems Technician

Franklin, TN · On-site

$21.93 - $32.89/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon ...

Controls Systems Technician

Franklin, TN · On-site

$21.93 - $32.89/hr

Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon ...

Controls Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

REA Controls, LLC FLSA Status: Exempt About The BAS Technician will be responsible for installs ... Support programmers during functional testing. * Document service activities and update work orders.

Controls Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$65 - $90/hr

Plan and coordinate engineering project work with team members * Engage in project commissioning ... Troubleshoot automation systems and assist with other aspects of electrical or controls projects as ...

New

Electrical & Controls Technician - Build Field-Ready Systems That Power Clean Energy Location ... You'll be the link between engineering design and operational reality. What You'll Do * Build and ...

Electrical & Controls Technician - Build Field-Ready Systems That Power Clean Energy Location ... You'll be the link between engineering design and operational reality. What You'll Do * Build and ...

Provides engineering insight to ensure project or other design initiatives align with company ... Investigate controls faults, alarm issues, graphics problems, communications failures, and ...

BAS Controls Technician

Nashville, TN · On-site

$83 - $104/hr

BAS Controls Technician (Start-Up) - Nashville, TN - $40-$50/hr + Overtime - Company Vehicle ... Maintain strong communication with building owners, contractors, engineers, and internal team ...

New

Senior Building Automation Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

This role leads complex controls troubleshooting, governs technical quality of automation solutions ... Partner with Reliability Engineering, Facilities Operations, Security, and Engineering teams to ...

Oversee document control resources and/or perform document controls responsibilities for engineering, procurement and construction documentation. * Establish and/or maintain project controls ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

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:

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.

Instrumentation and Control (I&C) Engineer

Dewberry

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Dewberry rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Instrumentation and Control (I&C) Engineer - Water / Wastewater
Join the Dewberry team as an Instrumentation and Control (I&C) Engineer
Job Description
Dewberry's Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Structural (MEPS) team includes a large group focused on design services for nationwide clients in specialized facility types and specialized design services. Our experience includes high-performance buildings, hospitals, net zero/renewable energy technologies, microgrid and energy resilience design, and a broad set of other MEPS services. Our MEPS team contains subject matter experts in leadership roles in international professional organizations such as ASHRAE. Our repeat clients include universities, healthcare systems, state, local, and federal government agencies, and large global industrial manufacturers, among others. Our MEPS service line is ranked #30 nationally among MEP Giants.
Because our backlog continues to grow, we are seeking an Instrumentation and Control (I&C) Engineerto join our Nashville, TN, office. As an Instrumentation and Control (I&C) Engineer, you will be responsible for providing technical guidance and training/mentoring of our design resources in all areas of work we do associated with instrumentation and controls. Assist the Project/Client Managers by providing technical guidance to help meet the client's desires and budget. Work with a team of engineers on a variety of Water/Wastewater projects. Grow and manage a group of instrumentation and controls engineers. In short, provide technical guidance associated with electrical requirements to accomplish our commitments. Will report to the MEPS Infrastructure Department Manager.
Responsibilities
Would be expected to provide the following:
  • Provide instrumentation and control system engineering and design for water and wastewater projects including specifications, drawings, and cost estimates.
  • Develop design documentation for control systems including loops sheets, control single lines, and network drawings for SCADA, PLC, and DCS Systems
  • Coordinate with process engineers and develop Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
  • Effectively and successfully complete projects.
  • Technical guidance and quality oversight, including code review, of all project work involving wastewater and water treatment instrumentation and controls.
  • Recruiting, Technical training, development and management of instrumentation and controls staff.
  • Establishing and improving standards, practices, guidelines, for instrumentation and controls engineering.
  • Provide 'on-the-spot' advice and decisions - technical and cost estimates.
  • Coordination with all disciplines involved, including outside consultants.
  • Review and approve documentation developed by contractors.

Required Skills & Required Experience
  • BS in engineering.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) or ability to obtain licensure through reciprocity (example through Comity) within the State in which the position is posted within six (6) months.
  • 7+ years experience in WW/W instrumentation and controls is preferred however industrial, chemical, and mining experience is acceptable.
  • Control system networking expertise.
  • Candidate must have a good working knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Life Safety Codes, and other related Codes.
  • Good verbal, writing and interpersonal skills are essential for coordination with other disciplines, and client interface

*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.
*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.
*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.
Notice to Third Party Recruiters: Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.
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