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Controls Engineer Jobs in Salem, OR (NOW HIRING)

Entek

Controls Engineer

Lebanon, OR

$89K - $115K/yr

Controls Engineer designs, develops, and starts up industrial control systems used for controlling equipment, and machinery. Individual is responsible for the startup and de-bugging of equipment at ...

ENTEK

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Lebanon, OR · On-site

$85K - $145K/yr

As a Senior Controls Engineer, you'll play a key role in designing, developing, and commissioning industrial automation systems that power ENTEK's manufacturing operations and customer equipment. You ...

Keller Associates

Control Systems Integrator

Salem, OR · On-site

Collaborate with Electrical and Controls Engineers to produce or refine project deliverables, including P&IDs, instrumentation plans, control panel shop drawings, network diagrams, process control ...

Honeywell

Sr Advanced Application Engineer

Salem, OR · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

The Application Engineering Team is responsible for developing and implementing Technical Training across the Honeywell Controls Portfolio. The team is also responsible for assisting the Sales Team ...

City of McMinnville, OR

City Engineer

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

Engineering Opening Date: 06/01/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Position Summary The City of ... Administers the approved budget and oversees the maintenance and monitoring of budgetary controls.

City of McMinnville

City Engineer

Mcminnville, OR · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

Engineering Oversight (50%) Develops and recommends project scope for new or improvements to public ... Administers the approved budget and oversees the maintenance and monitoring of budgetary controls.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Salem, OR

Controls Engineer information

See Salem, OR salary details

$55.3K

$97.1K

$131.7K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Salem, OR is $97,060.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $108,500.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Salem, OR? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Salem, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Salem, OR? For Controls Engineer jobs in Salem, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Salem, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Salem, OR are:
What cities near Salem, OR are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Salem, OR with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Salem, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,060 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Entek

Lebanon, OR

$89K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Company Description

ENTEK is a major Oregon employer and an enabler of global clean energy with headquarters in Lebanon Oregon.  We are a top producer of separators for both lithium and lead acid batteries, best in class twin screw extruders and machinery for the plastics industry, and we have a full complement of engineering services to provide our customers with excellent products and services worldwide. Our success is fueled by consistently living our core values of respect, integrity, commitment, and innovation. ENTEK's commitment to non-stop innovation and attention to customer service keeps our customer's production lines humming. ENTEK is a dynamic and engaging place to work. We believe in supporting our employees, by offering paid time off, health
insurance including medical, dental, and vision, 401k, and tuition reimbursement. Our teams are world-class!
Stop by our website at www.entek.com to learn more about our company and the opportunities that
await you at ENTEK.

Job Description

Controls Engineer designs, develops, and starts up industrial control systems used for controlling equipment, and machinery. Individual is responsible for the startup and de-bugging of equipment at the Lebanon, Oregon site as well as in the field at customer job sites. Some travel will be required. Position requires from time to time this individual carry the company pager for after-hours call-in support. Extensive Allen Bradley PLC experience preferred.

Qualifications

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES may include all or some of the following. Other duties may be assigned as needed.

Discuss project(s) with Supervisor and sales engineers to review functions of machines and equipment.

Diagram logic systems for functions such as sequence and timing control.

Design and program appropriate Human Machine Interface (HMI).

Write PLC code and document the code according to ENTEK standards.

Review schematics with customer representatives to answer questions during installation of systems.

Write a complete project scope for each job before it is started.

Design controls for industrial plant monitoring systems.

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Additional Information

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or equivalent; or a minimum of five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents; respond effectively to inquiries or complaints; write operating manuals; and make effective and persuasive presentations to customers when required.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to comprehend and apply principles of advanced algebra, and advanced statistical theory. Ability to work with concepts such as limits and engineering equations.

REASONING ABILITY

  Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions. Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described herein 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 frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 40 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disabled/Veteran

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