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Controls Engineer Jobs in Elkhart, IN (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

South Bend, IN ยท On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer will design, program, and commission advanced control systems for custom friction and resistance welding machines used in aerospace, automotive, and other high ...

Controls Engineer

Elkhart, IN

$80K - $104K/yr

Controls & Robotics Engineer (5+ Years Experience) * Commission, program, and troubleshoot industrial robotic systems with a focus on welding applications * Configure and deploy PLC-based control ...

Associate Controls Engineer

Three Rivers, MI ยท On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Job Posting Title Associate Controls Engineer Summary Assists in the design, testing, installation, and maintenance of large-scale electronic equipment or machinery for use in manufacturing. Follows ...

The Controls Engineer takes ownership for deliverables and collaborates with internal stakeholders, ensuring productivity enhancement and execution excellence. The Controls Engineer owns the ...

The Senior Electrical/Controls Technician is responsible for the daily maintenance of numerous ... Basic knowledge in PLC architecture, programming, installations, and maintenance practices a plus ...

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Controls Engineer information

See Elkhart, IN salary details

$52.6K

$92.4K

$125.3K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Elkhart, IN is $92,402.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $103,300.00 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 Elkhart, IN?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Elkhart, IN are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Elkhart, IN?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Elkhart, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Elkhart, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Elkhart, IN are:

What cities near Elkhart, IN are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Elkhart, IN with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Elkhart, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,402 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Controls Engineer

United Petfood Producers USA Inc.

Mishawaka, IN โ€ข On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls Engineer

Location: Mishawaka, IN

Department: Engineering

Job Type: Salary

About United Petfood:

United Petfood is a private label producer of high-quality dry & wet pet food, biscuits and snacks. We are a Belgian family business with 25 high-tech pet kitchens in Europe and the US.

Joining us, means joining an international, passionate and driven team with one common goal: a healthy planet filled with healthy pets! But it doesn’t stop there: we truly care about building encouraging, supportive, long-lasting partnerships, both inside as well as outside of our fast-growing family company. By only working with the very best ingredients and most innovative technology available, we ensure a spot in which you can grow, bloom and make thousands of pets happy worldwide!

Position Summary: Our Mishawaka team at United Petfood is made up of professionals who understand the difference our products make in the lives of pets. We are currently seeking a Controls Engineer to join our team. This position is based in our Mishawaka office. Reporting to the Maintenance and Engineering Manager, the Controls Engineer is primarily responsible for the programming, documentation, training and knowledge of plant-wide instrumentation, controls and other strategic systems as well as the computer integration of the manufacturing process and equipment. They will be responsible for projects and facility support as assigned or identified. Additionally, the Controls Engineer will work closely with all manufacturing employees and management.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Support Strategic Software Initiatives and plant and corporate rollouts relative to plant projects.
  • Design and engineer controls and instrumentation.
  • Design and engineer electrical systems in support of the process and utility system.
  • Design and engineer the selection, procurement and installation of instruments and controls system.
  • Assist plant or technical services personnel in troubleshooting operational problems from a controls engineering perspective.
  • Assist in training of plant personnel on new and upgraded systems.
  • Customize software solutions based on requirements.
  • Perform all programming of the control system as required.
  • Interface with vendors, construction administrators, and project team.
  • Perform and document technical design reviews with other disciplines on the project team to produce the highest level of quality.
  • Participate in contract administration.
  • Manage and perform projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Time manage and prioritize tasks to achieve results within cost and schedule constraints.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Workplace Safety:

  • Completes safety system documentation and verifies compliance to program standards.
  • Reports deviations to Supervisor.
  • Participates in mandatory safety trainings and adheres to all safety policies
  • Required to report all safety issues, near misses, and injuries

Quality & Food Safety:

  • Completes quality & food safety system documentation and verifies compliance to program standards. Reports deviations to Supervisor.
  • Participates in mandatory food safety and quality training program requirements
  • Preserves the integrity of the BRC system through adherence to the policies and procedures outlined. Takes actions necessary to resolve food safety and quality system deficiencies
  • Required to report food safety and quality system failures and take actions necessary to preserve the BRC system.

Technical Requirements:

Technical Knowledge Levels:

Level I – Demonstrates a general competence level of knowledge and skill

Level II – Demonstrates complete competence in knowledge and skill

Level III – Demonstrates expert-level knowledge and skills


  • Controllogix processors
  • Rslogix 5000 software
  • AOI blocks programming
  • Object-oriented programming
  • Factory Talk SE
  • VBA scripting
  • Wonderware GUI
  • Wonderware Servers
  • Wonderware Historian
  • Dream Reports programming

Electrical

  • Electrical control
  • Instrumentation
  • Allen Bradley VFD's preferably 525 series
  • Ethernet/IP background
  • Load cells & Scale head
  • Stratix managed switches
  • AutoCad
  • Electrical Circuiting
  • Communication/Documentation
  • Design panel & wiring layouts/diagrams
  • Process Controls
  • Project budgeting
  • Manage projects & construction of instrumentation and control systems
  • I/O loop testing & wire tracing
  • SQL platform
  • Mechanical Problem Solving/Troubleshooting
  • Electrical Problem Solving/Troubleshooting
  • Electrical Power systems
  • Verbal & Written Communication
  • Time Management
  • SOP development
  • Training Staff
  • Process Improvements

Position Requirements:

  • High School Diploma required. Bachelor’s or Technical degree in an Engineering-related field preferred.
  • Ability to troubleshoot operational problems.
  • Keep abreast of changes within the industry to help develop the controls, equipment and processing technology that will maximize production efficiencies and product quality.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to develop relationships with Production operators and management.
  • Professional representative of the Controls Engineering team.
  • Strong attention to details and follow-through on tasks and assignments.
  • Experience with budgeting.
  • Ability to understand PC based control systems with Microsoft and Allen Bradley.
  • Ability to read equipment control and electrical schematics.
  • Ability to program PLC’s and GUI systems.
  • Strong computer skills in Word, Excel, electronic mail and windows based programs.
  • Knowledge of process control systems (i.e. utility controls; steam, water and air.)
  • Ability to configure industrial machine controls, including AC/DC drives.
  • Ability to walk up numerous flights of stairs, ladders and/or work in confined spaces in extreme conditions.
  • Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer: United Petfood Producers USA Inc. is an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.