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Controls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Kiongroup

Electrical Controls Engineer

Pacific, WA

$96K - $172K/yr

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.

Blue Origin

Controls Engineer III

Seattle, WA

$130K - $182K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, you will develop and mature the control algorithms and control laws that govern safe, predictable system behavior across startup, steady-state operation, and shutdown. Passion ...

Aetherflux

Sr. Controls Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$165K - $190K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics, Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering field. * 3+ years of experience in controls engineering, mechatronics, or automation for hardware systems.

AES Corporation

Senior Controls Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

Position Summary The Senior Controls Engineer will lead the design, testing, commissioning, and continuous improvement of plant-level control systems for utility-scale solar and battery energy ...

Blue Origin

Controls Engineer Sr

Seattle, WA

$197K - $276K/yr

As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will work on various spaceflight systems and share ... and controls application development tools such as Matlab/Simulink (including autocoding ...

Blue Origin, LLC

Controls Engineer Sr

Seattle, WA · On-site

$197K - $276K/yr

As part of a hardworking team of engineers, you will work on various spaceflight systems and share ... and controls application development tools such as Matlab/Simulink (including autocoding ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Controls Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$62.6K

$110K

$149.2K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Seattle, WA is $109,966.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $123,000.00 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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,966 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Electrical Controls Engineer

Kiongroup

Pacific, WA

$96K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

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. Qualified candidates are proficient in planning, creating schematic and panel assembly drawings, working with PLCs (Allen Bradley and/or Siemens), HMIs, and VFD's, implementation and commissioning of engineering design projects. Employees must be willing to travel up to 50% to customer locations in the USA.
Dematic is an intralogistics innovator that designs, builds and supports intelligent, automated solutions for manufacturing, warehouse and distribution environments for customers that are powering the future of commerce. With engineering centers, manufacturing facilities and service centers located in more than 25 countries, Dematic's global network of 8,000 employees have helped achieve more than 6,000 worldwide customer installations for some of the world's leading brands. Headquartered in Atlanta, Dematic is a member of KION Group, a global leader in industrial trucks, supply chain solutions and related services, and a leading provider of warehouse automation.We offer:

  • Career Development

  • Competitive Compensation and Benefits

  • Pay Transparency

  • Global Opportunities

Learn More Here: https://www.dematic.com/en-us/about/careers/what-we-offer

Dematic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

The base pay range for this role is estimated to be $96,800.00 - $172,800.00 at the time of posting. Final compensation will be determined by various factors such as work location, education, experience, knowledge, and skills.

Tasks and Qualifications:
What you Will Do in This Role:

  • Deliver assigned work packages on time and within budget, as defined by the Project Manager.

  • Ensure all deliverables and solutions meet quality standards, processes, and established engineering practices.

  • Interpret design input requirements to produce semi-complex system designs.

  • Select and place electrical and controls components for conveyor systems to ensure accurate and reliable operation (e.g., photoeyes, I/O blocks, beacon lights, control stations, gateways, VFDs, etc.).

  • Develop electrical layouts and schematic drawings using appropriate CAD tools.

  • Perform FLA, power drop, cable length, and other engineering calculations to ensure proper system functionality and compliance with Dematic and industrial standards.

  • Design industrial networks in accordance with Dematic guidelines and industry standards (Ethernet, ProfiBus/ProfiNet, AS-i, DCAN, etc.).

  • Design semi-complex conveyor control software using tools such as AB Logix Designer.

  • Configure Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) parameters to meet specific application requirements.

  • Create configuration and parameter files for Embedded Conveyor Controllers (ECCs).

  • Emulation testing of designed systems to ensure proper functionality.

  • Document findings and results in alignment with Dematic standards, including Best Practices, Standard Work Packages, process documentation, application guidelines, and manuals.

  • Share developed documentation and knowledge with less experienced engineers through training sessions, spreadsheets, manuals, and other collaborative formats.

  • Track engineering progress against schedule; report updates with ME/CE Leads

  • Completes the commissioning of complex systems that integrate hardware and software.

  • Completes recommendations for ideas related to productivity improvement, cost reduction and improvement in customer satisfaction.

  • Must be open to travel up to 50% to customer location in the USA

What We Are Looking For

  • BS/BA in electrical engineering or advanced degree.

  • 5+ years of successful experience in related field.

  • Demonstrates and applies a broad knowledge of field of specialization through successful completion of moderately complex assignments.

  • Demonstrates knowledge of organization's business practices and issues.

  • Proficient in AutoCAD.

  • Proficient in either Rockwell or Siemens PLCs.

  • Knowledgeable on AC drives, both open & closed loop.

  • Experience in Ethernet IP network design and machine safety a plus.

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