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Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbus, IN (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Controls Engineer - Industrial Automation (PLC / Robotics) Location: Columbus, IN (On-site | Relocation Not Available) Salary Range: $75,000 - $85,000 (DOE) Employment Type: Direct Hire (Exempt) Job ...

Controls Engineer

North Vernon, IN · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

2nd shift Opportunity GT Industries, Inc. is seeking Controls Engineer in North Vernon, IN. * Responsible for performing tasks required for developing & designing equipment used, such as production ...

Controls Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$40.87 - $55.29/hr

Controls Engineer This role supports a leading automotive supplier that specializes in electronics, clean mobility, lighting, interiors, and lifecycle innovation. At this site, the team designs and ...

Controls Engineer

North Vernon, IN · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

2nd shift Opportunity GT Industries, Inc. is seeking Controls Engineer in North Vernon, IN. * Responsible for performing tasks required for developing & designing equipment used, such as production ...

Controls Engineer Salary: $90,000.00 to $95,000.00 Top-performing manufacturer has urgent need to hire Controls Engineer.This is a full-time, direct-hire role with full benefits. RESPONSIBILITIES:

Controls Engineer - Shelbyville IN This role focuses on designing, programming, and commissioning automated control systems within a high-volume automotive glass manufacturing facility. The Controls ...

Controls Engineer - Shelbyville IN This role focuses on designing, programming, and commissioning automated control systems within a high-volume automotive glass manufacturing facility. The Controls ...

Controls Engineer - Senior

Columbus, IN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

We are looking for a talented Controls Engineer - Senior to join our team specializing in Manufacturing in Columbus, IN. In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: * Design and ...

Controls Engineer - Senior

Columbus, IN · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

We are looking for a talented Controls Engineer - Senior to join our team specializing in Manufacturing in Columbus, IN. In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: * Design and ...

Controls Engineer - Senior

Columbus, IN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

We are looking for a talented Controls Engineer - Senior to join our team specializing in Manufacturing in Columbus, IN. In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: * Design and ...

Controls Engineer - Senior

Columbus, IN

$90K - $119K/yr

We are looking for a talented Controls Engineer - Senior to join our team specializing in Manufacturing in Columbus, IN. In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: * Design and ...

Controls Engineer - Senior

Columbus, IN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

We are looking for a talented Controls Engineer - Senior to join our team specializing in Manufacturing in Columbus, IN. In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: * Design and ...

Controls Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

The Controls Engineer will provide controls and electrical engineering support to the assigned UAP cell and maintenance efforts. They will become an expert to assist maintenance in supporting the ...

CONTROLS ENGINEER III

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Help develop and maintain cost effective general specifications and standards for machine controls and programming. * Coordinate all project controls/electrical activities to ensure that project ...

CONTROLS ENGINEER III

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Help develop and maintain cost effective general specifications and standards for machine controls and programming. * Coordinate all project controls/electrical activities to ensure that project ...

Assembly Controls Engineer

Seymour, IN

$72K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Robotics and Automation, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering is preferred, but experience in lieu of education will be ...

Assembly Controls Engineer

Seymour, IN · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Robotics and Automation, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering is preferred, but experience in lieu of education will be ...

Controls Technician

Columbus, IN · On-site

$28 - $36.75/hr

They will become the Controls Engineer expert and assist maintenance in supporting the plant UAP through troubleshooting/problem solving methodologies to eliminate down time and decrease quality ...

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Controls Engineer information

See Columbus, IN salary details

$51.2K

$89.9K

$122K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Columbus, IN is $89,917.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,700.00 and $100,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, IN? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, IN are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, IN? For Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Columbus, IN are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbus, IN with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Columbus, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,917 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Controls Engineer

MS Companies

Columbus, IN • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation (PLC / Robotics)

Location: Columbus, IN (On-site | Relocation Not Available)

Salary Range: $75,000 – $85,000 (DOE)

Employment Type: Direct Hire (Exempt)


Job Summary

We are supporting a confidential industrial automation and custom equipment manufacturer seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, startup, and deployment of automated manufacturing systems.

This is a hands-on, project-based role ideal for an early-career to mid-level Controls Engineer who enjoys working with PLCs, robotics, vision systems, and electrical design in a custom automation environment. This role is not a plant maintenance position — engineers are involved throughout the full equipment lifecycle, from design and programming through commissioning, testing, and customer acceptance.


Required Skills & Qualifications
  • 1+ years of hands-on experience in industrial automation / controls engineering
  • PLC programming experience (Allen-Bradley, Keyence, or similar platforms)
  • Experience programming industrial robots or cobots (Fanuc, Universal Robots, Doosan, or similar)
  • Experience with vision systems (Keyence, Cognex, or similar)
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
  • Working knowledge of industrial safety circuits
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

Preferred Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience with HMI and motion control systems
  • Exposure to SQL Server / database setup
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar electrical design software
  • Experience supporting equipment startups, runoffs, and commissioning
  • Comfortable supporting projects outside of first shift as needed

Day-to-Day Responsibilities
  • Program and support PLCs, robotics, and vision systems for custom automation equipment
  • Support equipment startup, testing, commissioning, and customer acceptance
  • Design and support electrical systems including control panels, wiring, and circuits
  • Support field wiring, debugging, and system troubleshooting
  • Diagnose electrical and controls issues and implement corrective actions
  • Support creation of project documentation and training materials
  • Collaborate with engineering and production teams to transition equipment into production
  • Communicate project status and technical details with customers and internal stakeholders

Physical and Environment Requirements

Physical expectations and working conditions may include standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods; lifting up to 30–50 lbs; working at varying heights; and working in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Some onsite installation and support work may be required.


Company Benefits & Culture
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and 401(k)
  • Stable pipeline of custom automation projects
  • Opportunity to work on technically challenging, non-repetitive equipment
  • Collaborative engineering environment with hands-on ownership


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