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Controls Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Dematic has an immediate need for an Electrical Controls Engineer in our Life Cycle and Services Modernizations & Upgrades group. Candidates will have 5+ years' experience in controls engineering.

Dematic has an immediate need for an Electrical Controls Engineer in our Life Cycle and Services Modernizations & Upgrades group. Candidates will have 5+ years' experience in controls engineering.

Junior Controls Engineer We're seeking a full-time controls engineer to join our expanding team and contribute to the design, programming, and management of automation projects in the pharmaceutical ...

Junior Controls Engineer We're seeking a full-time controls engineer to join our expanding team and contribute to the design, programming, and management of automation projects in the pharmaceutical ...

Controls Engineer - Webster, NY

Webster, NY · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

The controls engineer is a key player to ensure Xerox's ability to deliver high-quality parts to our customers. This role is ideal for someone who loves to collaborate to solve problems in multiple ...

Sr. Controls Project Engineer

Webster, NY · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

To provide leadership and technical direction to all Controls Engineering team members. Responsible to assist with the project's success. Ensure all relevant safety objectives and legal requirements ...

Apply Early

Sr. Controls Project Engineer

Webster, NY · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

To provide leadership and technical direction to all Controls Engineering team members. Responsible to assist with the project's success. Ensure all relevant safety objectives and legal requirements ...

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Controls Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$54.3K

$95.3K

$129.3K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Rochester, NY is $95,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $106,600.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY? For Controls Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,286 per year, or $45.8 per hour.
Controls Engineer I

$65K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Summary

Coordinates electrical and controls related engineering activities of outside suppliers to assure new product platforms achieve the desired functions, cost and schedule. Designs, builds and debugs systems of electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic controls for CNC machines, related test equipment and facilities.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

External Product Development

  • Writes Controls requirements and specifications. Communicates requirements clearly and completely to suppliers.
  • Develops validation plans to assure all controls requirements are properly implemented by supplier.
  • Develops validation strategies to assure all motion control requirements are met by supplier.
  • Uses CE requirements (minimally IEC 60204-1) and NEC code requirements (minimally NFPA 79) to ensure that machine designs comply with these requirements as necessary.
  • Creates control diagrams and tables to show the inter-relationships between the various control systems (PLC, NC, IPC) that exist on a machine. Communicates Supplier versus internal responsibilities via this media.

Internal Product Development

  • Defines electrical interface specifications. Works closely with System Design Engineers to assure proper motor selection, control and mechanical interfaces.
  • Creates or modifies PLC code to solve problems or achieve new functionality.
  • Develops interface specifications between the CNC platform and QED software applications.
  • Identifies electrical and controls-related spare parts.
  • Supports user manual development, cost reduction, and engineering change team efforts.
  • Responsible for planning and oversight of test execution, data reduction, and delivery of test reports.
  • Develops or uses computer software and hardware to conduct tests on electrical products and systems.
  • Confers with scientific, engineering, and technical personnel to resolve testing problems such as product or system malfunctions, incomplete test data and data interpretation.
  • Manages cross-functional engineering projects, including development of project goals, project schedule (Gantt chart), resource allocations, and budgets.

Service and Support

  • Develops procedures that enable qualified service personnel to perform electrical and control system upgrades; field-optimize machines; troubleshoot machines; install and upgrade new product improvements.
  • Supports Software & Service functions as an intermediate user of various control systems; this includes occasional service visits to customers to troubleshoot difficult problems.
  • Assists in solving service issues, including complex motion dynamics problems.

Continuous Improvement

Develops control specifications for equipment and upgrades, which logically convey the intended design criteria to machine suppliers and internal customers.

Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience

Bachelor's degree (B. S.) in Electrical Engineering, from a four-year college or university; master’s degree preferred but not required.

Requires a minimum of 1+ years of related experience in engineering or machine controls environment.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job has no direct supervisory responsibilities. Indirect supervision of lab technicians will be required.

Language Skills

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and the public.

Mathematical Skills

Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations. Basic statistics. Design of experiments preferred.

Computer Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Design software; Development software; Internet software; Project Management software; Spreadsheet software and Word Processing software.

Project Management - Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities. Develops risk management profiles.

Other Skills and Abilities

Ability to read and write PLC and CNC code.

Adept using oscilloscopes, DVMs, spectrum analyzers.

Integration of mechanical/electrical/motion sensors into experiments and/or products.

Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus.

Work Location

The primary work location for this position is QED’s main headquarters, 1040 University Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607. In addition, this position requires frequent visits to QED’s suppliers and machine builders, most of which are also in the Rochester, NY area. Employees may occasionally be permitted to work from home for some tasks, at the discretion of the employee’s manager. This is not a remote position.

Travel, domestically and internationally (<10%), may be required to perform the essential functions of this position.

Equal Opportunity and Work Authorization

QED is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. As an ITAR-regulated facility, we are unable to provide immigration sponsorship. All applicants must be "US Persons" authorized to work in the United States for any employer without restriction.

The pay range for this role is $65,000-$97,000, based on skills and experience relative to current QED employees in the same job grade.

In addition to base salary, employees may be eligible for an annual performance bonus based on company results and individual goal achievement. Bonuses are not guaranteed.

Pay Equity

The final salary offered will reflect the candidate’s education, experience, and specialized skills, while maintaining internal equity with employees in comparable roles and with similar qualifications.