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Controls Engineer Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

Controls Specialist Spokane, WA Our client, a top Mechanical Engineering Contractor, seeks to add a Controls Specialist to their dynamic team. This individual will configure, test, and optimize ...

Control Systems Engineer

Spokane, WA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

As a Controls Engineer, you will utilize computer-aided software to review, modify, and design electrical systems while simultaneously validating and improving the performance of electromechanical ...

Controls Technician Immediate Opportunity | Veterans Encouraged to Apply | $60,000 - $80,000 First Year, DOE Along with strong career growth opportunities! We are seeking a skilled Controls ...

Controls Technician

Spokane, WA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Overview Controls Technician Immediate Opportunity | Veterans Encouraged to Apply | $60,000 - $80,000 First Year, DOE Along with strong career growth opportunities! We are seeking a skilled Controls ...

Controls Technician

Spokane, WA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Overview Controls Technician Immediate Opportunity | Veterans Encouraged to Apply | $60,000 - $80,000 First Year, DOE Along with strong career growth opportunities! We are seeking a skilled Controls ...

Senior Power Engineer

Liberty Lake, WA · On-site

$100K - $139K/yr

H2E is an electrical engineering consulting firm specializing in electrical engineering, power, automation, controls, and software for industrial and municipal markets. We hold professional ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Engineer information

See Spokane, WA salary details

$55.6K

$97.6K

$132.5K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Spokane, WA is $97,648.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $109,200.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Spokane, WA are:

What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,648 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer - Manufacturing Support

Kaiser Aluminium

Spokane, WA

$70K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

REPORTS TO: Process Improvement Engineering Manager

FLSA STATUS: Salaried -Exempt

SUPERVISES: None

Benefits

  • Salary range $70,000 to $125,000 commensurate with experience
  • High deductible medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, including spouse and children (modest payroll deductions)
  • 10 paid holidays per year
  • Vacation (3 weeks starting out)
  • Supplemental leave (used in conjunction with Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave)
  • 401K with matching company funds
  • Quarterly bonus structure
  • Tuition reimbursement

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Manufacturing Support Automation & Controls Engineer reports to the Process Improvement Engineering Manager This position supports/leads flow team directed Manufacturing Excellence activities being conducted at the Trentwood facilities. This position works with facilitators, engineers, manufacturing leaders, craft personnel and operators, as needed with the goal of improving process capability, lowering manufacturing cost, increasing reliability and reducing waste in the operation.

The successful Manufacturing Support Engineer will:

  • Validate and maintain control system design/architecture for new and existing equipment.
  • Provide support and coordination for equipment start-ups and maintenance outages.
  • Assist in trouble-shooting equipment control and electrical systems.
  • Provide engineering support for the maintenance and operations resources during troubleshooting and RCA activities.
  • Perform controlled process improvement changes in PLC systems, HMI systems, and in level 2 server and coordination systems.
  • Coordinate with vendors, process engineers, and production personnel for continuous improvement.
  • Develop project scope, feasibility, cost estimates, and schedule, for assigned projects.
  • Prepare, organize, and update project documentation (Manuals, PM's spare parts, correspondence, drawings, drawing lists, material listings, etc.)
  • Help support and develop a culture at Kaiser Trentwood that promotes lean thinking and right first time for all work performed.
  • Collaborates with the operational team to develop and report performance metrics against targets to determine gaps in performance and recommends/executes improvement initiatives.
  • Advise the team on improvement opportunities through requirements gathering, data extraction/transformation, organized analysis and effective visualization of information.
  • Drive process consistency through standard work, process control, right first time, and management of change.
  • Comply with all safety, quality and environmental regulations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Approximately 50% of the job function is performed in an office setting requiring normal safety precautions. 50% of the job function is in the plant. There is exposure to operating machinery and a manufacturing environment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • This position requires performing tasks on a computer.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • The employee is frequently required to use hands to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls and climb or balance. There will be periods of walking and standing. The employee must talk and hear.
  • The employee is occasionally required to reach with arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
  • 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.

EDUCATION

  • An undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering.
  • A degree in Computer Engineering combined with industrial experience may substitute for the Electrical Engineering degree.
  • An undergraduate degree in ME Automation with sufficient coursework in automation/robotics may also substitute.

EXPERIENCE

This individual will possess:

  • 0-5 years previous electrical engineering experience.
  • Experience with industrial PLC systems, HMI systems or distributed control systems, or relevant laboratory education
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong PC skills, including Windows, Word, and Excel.
  • Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and organizational skills.
  • Proven ability to work in teams.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

The preferred candidate will have knowledge and experience with:

  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in the maintenance department of a heavy industrial facility.
  • Familiarity with database tools and techniques.
  • Programming experience. (Python preferred)
  • Familiarity with CMMS software (MAXIMO preferred).
  • Knowledge of National Electrical Code, AC & DC motors

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

This individual will:

  • Be energetic, disciplined and focused on a team building operational organization.
  • Have well developed interpersonal and business partnering skills, with the ability to quickly adapt to, be accepted by, and interrelate with the organization at all levels.
  • Be willing to work flexible hours.
  • Be self-motivated, self-learning, and willing to educate themselves and others in a changing environment.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

  • Refer to training matrix on file with Quality Department.

PERFORMANCE FACTORS

  • Attendance and Dependability: The employee can be depended upon to report to work at the scheduled time and is seldom absent from work. Employee can be depended upon to complete work in a timely, accurate, and thorough manner and is conscientious about assignments.
  • Communication and Contact: The employee communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Company.
  • Relationships with Others: The employee works effectively and relates well with others including superiors, colleagues, and individuals inside and outside the Company. The employee exhibits a professional manner in dealing with others and works to maintain constructive working relationships.

No third party candidate submissions are being accepted at this time for this opening.

This position has been determined to be a safety-sensitive position and requires a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen that includesmarijuana.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered based on job-related qualifications and abilities. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

About Kaiser Aluminum: Talented people join our team because we are a company passionate about environmental sustainability, employee growth, contributing back to our communities and championing an inclusive culture.