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Controls Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

MPI Products

Controls Engineer

Deerfield, WI

$81K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an energetic and highly motivated Controls Engineer with heavy experience with CNC - for our Deerfield, WI location. The Automation Engineer is responsible for the maintenance and ...

MPI Products

Controls Engineer

Deerfield, WI · On-site

$110K/yr

We are seeking an energetic and highly motivated Controls Engineer with heavy experience with CNC - for our Deerfield, WI location. The Automation Engineer is responsible for the maintenance and ...

MPI Products

Controls Engineer

Deerfield, WI · On-site

$110K/hr

We are seeking an energetic and highly motivated Controls Engineer with heavy experience with CNC - for our Deerfield, WI location. The Automation Engineer is responsible for the maintenance and ...

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.

Controls Engineer

Lodi, WI · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Position Summary As a Controls Engineer at Alkar, you'll design the latest automation control systems while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and field service. We're looking for ...

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.

Controls Engineer

Lodi, WI · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Description Position Summary As a Controls Engineer at Alkar, you'll design the latest automation control systems while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and field service. We're ...

Alkar

Controls Engineer

Lodi, WI · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Position Summary As a Controls Engineer at Alkar, you'll design the latest automation control systems while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and field ...

Abbott

Sr. Controls Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Position Overview As a Sr. Controls Engineer, you will lead cross-functional efforts with internal teams, equipment vendors, and external partners to procure, install, commission, support, and ...

Abbott

Sr. Controls Engineer

Madison, WI · On-site

$97K - $129K/yr

Position Overview As a Sr. Controls Engineer, you will lead cross-functional efforts with internal teams, equipment vendors, and external partners to procure, install, commission, support, and ...

Alkar

Senior Controls Engineer

Lodi, WI · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Position Summary As a Controls Engineer at Alkar, you'll design the latest automation control systems while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and field ...

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.

Senior Controls Engineer

Lodi, WI · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Position Summary As a Controls Engineer at Alkar, you'll design the latest automation control systems while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and field service. We're looking for ...

ALKAR-RAPIDPAK, INC.

Senior Controls Engineer

Lodi, WI · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Description Position Summary As a Controls Engineer at Alkar, you'll design the latest automation control systems while collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and field service. We're ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Madison, WI

Controls Engineer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$54.8K

$96.3K

$130.6K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Madison, WI is $96,259.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $107,600.00 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.

More about Controls Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Madison, WI as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,259 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Janesville, WI

Sterling Engineering Inc.
See more jobs at Sterling Engineering Inc.external

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Title: Controls Engineer
Location: Janesville, WI
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $100,000 to $120,000 (based on experience)
Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, 401k

 
Seeking an experienced Electrical Controls Engineer to join our team. Join a team building advanced custom automated machinery for a variety of industries (i.e. Medical / Life Sciences, Consumer Products, Automotive, Industrial).
 
Responsibilities: 
 
  1. Electrical hardware and software design
  2. PLC & HMI programming / troubleshooting
  3. Experience with multi-axis motion control
  4. Specifying and correctly applying a variety of robotic platforms
  5. Machine vision (Cognex, Keyence, etc.)  
  6. Machine integration experience
  7. Equipment debug
  8. Technical writing   
 
Skills: 
 
  1. Should have knowledge of NEC, NFPA79, and UL 508A
  2. Experience in electrical drafting / design utilizing AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical
  3. PLC programming – Allen Bradley (ControlLogix)
  4. Project management   
  5. Excellent problem solving ability
  6. Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  7. Robot integration and knowledge of ANSI/RIA R15.06 a preferred
 
Experience: 
 
  1. BS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent training & experience
  2. 5+ years of experience in machine controls development
 


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.