1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbus, IN (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Manufacturing and Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing manufacturing processes and control systems to improve quality, cost, delivery, morale, and/or ...

Controls Technician

Columbus, IN · On-site

$28 - $36.75/hr

Job Posting Title Controls Technician Summary The Controls Technician supports production by ... As a leading global Tier 1 Automotive and Mobility Supplier, AAM designs, engineers and ...

2nd Controls Technician

North Vernon, IN · On-site

$25 - $32.75/hr

Job Posting Title 2nd Controls Technician Summary The Controls Technician supports production by ... engineering roots with global manufacturing capabilities and an entrepreneurial spirit to move ...

Control System Engineer

Columbus, IN · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Coaches and mentors are less experienced Controls Engineers * Support Control activities for RMEP, CEP and CMEP Plant transformation in the Assembly, and or Machining areas as needed. This will ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Electronic Systems Controls Senior Engineer

Cummins Inc.

Columbus, IN • Hybrid

$90K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Cummins rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 263 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

We are looking for a talented Electronic Systems Controls Senior Engineer to join our team specializing in engineering for our Cummins' business in Columbus, IN. 

In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: 

Develop high-performance control systems by designing, calibrating, and validating electronic controls and virtual sensors algorithms that improve the functionality, efficiency, and reliability of engines, powertrains, and power systems. 

Translate customer and system requirements into technical solutions by decomposing requirements into functional controls strategies and diagnostics that deliver measurable product performance and customer value.

Improve product quality and reliability by investigating controls-related issues, identifying root causes, implementing corrective actions, and documenting solutions to prevent recurrence. 

Support the full controls development lifecycle through system specification, modeling, simulation, calibration, testing, verification, and product maintenance activities that ensure robust product performance. 

Enhance diagnostic capabilities by developing and tuning algorithms that accurately detect faults, support troubleshooting efforts, and reduce downtime for customers. 

Drive continuous improvement in engineering processes and tools by contributing to the refinement of controls development methods, simulation approaches, calibration practices, and validation procedures. 

Strengthen cross-functional execution by collaborating with systems, software, hardware, testing, and product teams to ensure controls solutions integrate effectively across the broader system. 

Build technical influence and ownership by independently executing projects, coordinating testing activities, supporting technicians and team members, and applying systems thinking to solve increasingly complex engineering challenges.

Education/Experience:

  • College, university, or equivalent Bachelor's degree in Engineering or appropriate STEM field is required. Post-graduate Master's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics or Controls Engineering is required. 
  • This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations. 
  • Strong MATLAB/Simulink and Controls Engineering skills are required. 
  • Knowledge of basic machine learning models and data analysis skills is required. 
  • Experience with bench testing, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing is preferred. 
  • GT-POWER Engine Simulation skills are preferred. 
  • Knowledge of internal combustion engines and their operation is preferred.
  • Knowledge of MS Office tools is also preferred.

Additional Details:

We are looking for a talented Senior Engineer to join our Controls Performance and Features team within Applied Controls Software and Electronics Engineering (CSE/SwE) organization in Columbus, IN. (Hybrid)

In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: 

  • Collecting engine data and calibrating virtual sensors, device drivers and other features for automotive and off-highway diesel/spark ignition engine programs. Validation of the calibration, documentation of results and supporting certification process.
  • Supporting investigating/troubleshooting of issues in test cells, trucks, and field test units by following the 7-step problem solving process. 
  • Performing GT-POWER/MATLAB engine simulations for calibration development tasks. Supporting AUTOSAR software and calibration development for diesel and spark ignition engines.
  • On-Site w/Flexibility

Compensation 

Please note that the salary range provided is a good faith estimate on the applicable range. The final salary offer will be determined after considering relevant factors, including a candidate's qualifications and experience, where appropriate.

To be successful in this role you will need the following:

Build deep technical expertise in controls, mechatronics, and systems engineeringby understanding how hardware, software, sensors, actuators, and open/closed-loop control strategies interact to deliver reliable and optimized product performance.

Apply rigorous, data-driven problem-solving and validation methodsby leveraging statistical analysis, modeling, simulation, verification, and testing to identify root causes, mitigate failure modes, and make sound engineering decisions.

Master requirements management and technical communicationby translating stakeholder needs into clear, verifiable requirements, maintaining accurate technical documentation, and effectively communicating complex concepts across diverse audiences.

Drive results through collaboration, continuous learning, and sound judgment by partnering across functions, embracing diverse perspectives, making timely decisions, and continuously expanding your technical and professional capabilities to solve increasingly complex engineering challenges.


What Cummins employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Cummins logo

About Cummins

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cummins Inc., headquartered in Columbus, IN, US, is a global power leader that designs, manufactures, and distributes numerous power products and systems. With its genesis from as early as 1919, the company readily serves diverse industries such as transportation, industrial, generator drive, or marine applications, among others. At the heart of Cummins' operations, its key product lineup encompasses diesel & natural gas engines, generator sets, engine components, and filtration, emission solutions, and electrical power generation systems. Cummins deeply embodies core values of integrity, respect for diversity, teamwork, performance excellence, and social responsibility - all of which dynamically fuel their mission 'Making people's lives better by powering a more prosperous world'.

Industry

Transportation equipment manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, IN, US

Year founded

1919