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Controls Engineer Jobs in Pullman, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Controls Engineer information

See Pullman, WA salary details

$53.7K

$94.4K

$128K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Pullman, WA is $94,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,600.00 and $105,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or stock options, and typically requires advanced knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages like Python or C++.

What Is a Controls Engineer?

Controls engineers design, develop, and test automated or dynamic systems that are controlled through feedback with sensors or detectors. Examples include automated irrigation systems that can sense moisture levels in soil, or self-driving cars that can navigate congested streets. Controls engineers apply control theory to devices, machines, and processes to attain desired outcomes. They can work on everything from boilers, washing machines, or light switches to complex industrial machinery.

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 exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators to ensure machinery operates efficiently and safely, often using engineering software and adhering to safety standards. Their role involves troubleshooting, system integration, and optimizing control processes to improve performance.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $110,000. Salaries often increase with proficiency in PLC programming, automation systems, and relevant software tools.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries of $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. Senior-level engineers often have 10+ years of experience and expertise in PLC programming, robotics, and system integration.

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.
More about Controls Engineer jobs
What cities near Pullman, WA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Pullman, WA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Pullman, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,356 per year, or $45.4 per hour.
Senior Controls Engineer

Senior Controls Engineer

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories

Lewiston, ID • On-site

$160K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 143 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Our Equipment Automation Engineering (EAE) team seeksa professional and innovative individual to join ourteam in Pullman WAor Lewiston ID.SEL is a 100 percent employee-owned company that specializes in creating and manufacturing digital products and systems that protect and control power systems around the world.

The Equipment Automation Engineering team supportsmanufacturing and vertical integration teamsbyunderstandingour manufacturing processes, recommendingsolutions, and executingprojects.

The successful candidate will be dependable, responsible,andself-motivated,andwork closely withEAE mechanical engineers,Productionrepresentatives,andrelatedEngineering teams to develop,successfully implement,andsupportmanufacturing automation solutions.These solutions often include fully custom automationdesigns.

As aSeniorControlsEngineer, a typical daymight include the following:

1.Mentoringengineersandtechnicians.

2.Leadingininitialequipment concept development and carefully balancingproduct specifications, process control requirements, layout complexity, cost, quality, and lead-time limits.

3.Layingout new industrial electrical control panels which are NFPA79/NEC/UL508A compliant and create electrical schematics.

4.Architecting, writing, and debuggingPLC ladder logic with an emphasis on generating code that is organized, structured, documented, maintainable and reusable. PLC code will interact with subsystems such as conveyors, robots, Manufacturing Execution System (MES), machine vision, and 3rd party equipment.

5.Managingelectrical cabinet builds.

6.Creatingmachine interactions with plant-wide Manufacturing Execution System (MES).

7.Introducingautomatedmachines andprocessesinto production, and trainingMaintenance and Production teams to support after deployment of equipment.

8.Creatingand reviewingspecifications and providingtechnical evaluations for outsourced automated equipment purchases.

9.Performingastechnicallead on assigned projects.

10. Other duties as assigned.

This job might be for you if you have:

1. B.S./M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or related discipline

2.12+ years relevant experience in designing and implementing automation solutions in a manufacturing environment.

3.Strong technicalexpertisein the applicationof PLCs (example:Allen Bradley, Mitsubishi), HMI/GUI layout, Field BusNetworks,Safety Systems,VisionSystems, and integration of Robotics.

4. Familiarity with electrical prints and standards for industrial equipment.

5. Excellent technical presentation and training skills.

6.Demonstratedadvancedproficiencyin programming PLCs, with a well-definedmethodologyformaintainingcode structure and organization.

7. Ability to program state machines for complex processes which involve multi-station parallel processing, pick and place automation, data acquisition, and PID control.

8. Proven ability to designreliablesystems with error handling and recovery processes.

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Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.

  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.

  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.

  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data

New hires generally start between $160,600 - $230,000. We base our starting pay offer on location and job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills. Our salary ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAMfilteror reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAMfilteror reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.

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