1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Kingsport, TN (NOW HIRING)

Control Engineer 1

Blountville, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Controls Engineers 1 are responsible for designing, developing, installing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control systems, machinery and processes. Controls Engineers work in various ...

Control Engineer 2

Blountville, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity, building automation, water / wastewater, power controls and protection, energy management, and ...

Responsibilities The Electrical & Instrumentation Design team sits at the intersection of electrical, controls, power, and instrumentation engineering, turning complex system requirements into ...

Process Engineer

Greeneville, TN · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

... process controls. * Conduct root cause investigations and implement corrective and preventive ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Plastics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical ...

The Engineering Manager leads the facility's engineering, maintenance, and project management ... The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, automation and controls knowledge, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineer information

See Kingsport, TN salary details

$52.3K

$91.8K

$124.6K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Kingsport, TN is $91,847.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $102,700.00 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 cities near Kingsport, TN are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Kingsport, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,847 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

$80K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

  • Contribute to a team responsible for maintaining, specifying, designing, acquiring, and validating manufacturing equipment and tooling.
  • Electrical hardware/software design for new projects and /or maintenance repair using sound engineering principals. Computer skills for performing hardware/software design for PLCs, HMIs, drives (AC&DC) and CAD layouts.
  • Managing equipment specifications, and procurement of parts for capital and/or expensed projects, as well as, procurement of parts for maintaining existing equipment.
  • Managing and scheduling maintenance personnel and/or outside contractors in association with completing projects and maintaining equipment.
  • Interfacing with drafters or personally draft drawings for projects or updating existing equipment files.
  • Cover engineering call in duties, typically once a month, but can vary.
  • Setting up and verifying validity of spare parts required for new and/or existing equipment, and writing preventative maintenance instructions.
  • A strong knowledge of power (medium voltage) systems
  • Supervising, maintaining, upgrading, and archiving software used in the manufacturing process.
  • Arc flash analysis

QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS

  • 4-Year college degree in electrical engineering or near equivalent.
  • 1+ years of electrical engineering experience, power experience a plus.
  • Design, requisition, and oversee projects
  • Computer skills and usage of software similar to those used in the plant.
  • Management/supervisory skills are a plus.
  • Problem solving skills.
  • Written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to design and implement technical concepts, and practices.
  • Strong PLC software programming experience, including RSLogix 5000 and Modicon.
  • Experience programming VFDs, HMIs, servo drives, robotics, and other controllers required.


E04JI800n8pv409a8sl