ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Surprise, AZ (NOW HIRING)

APEL Extrusions Inc.

Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer *Controls Systems Engineer / Electrical Automation Engineer Position Summary Apel Extrusions is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Controls Systems Engineer to support ...

APEL Extrusions Inc.

Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

*Controls Systems Engineer / Electrical Automation Engineer Position Summary Apel Extrusions is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Controls Systems Engineer to support, maintain, and improve the ...

E Tech Group

Controls Engineer

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems projects.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineer

Goodyear, AZ

$81K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems projects.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineer

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems projects.

E Tech Group

Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $107K/yr

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Controls Engineer to be responsible for leading or contributing to detailed hardware and software design of process automation control systems projects.

The Williams Company

Controls Engineer (AZ)

Phoenix, AZ

$120K - $150K/yr

We are conducting a search for a Controls Engineer for a large food/beverage manufacturerin Arizona.They are able to offer the opportunity for upward mobility. The Company is a well-recognized firm ...

FM Industries

Controls Engineer 1

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Responsibilities: apply standard engineering techniques to design, develop and maintain instrumentation or controls systems. ESSENTIAL DUTIES: * Multi-disciplinary position responsible for design ...

FM Industries

Controls Engineer 1

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

Responsibilities: apply standard engineering techniques to design, develop and maintain instrumentation or controls systems. ESSENTIAL DUTIES: * Multi-disciplinary position responsible for design ...

Clayco (LJC)

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$96K - $126K/yr

The Role We Want You For We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control ...

Clayco (LJC)

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The Role We Want You For We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control ...

Clayco (LJC)

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ

$96K - $126K/yr

The Role We Want You For We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control ...

Clayco (LJC)

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The Role We Want You For We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control ...

Clayco

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The Role We Want You For We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control ...

Barry Wehmiller Group

Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

BW Design Group is a fully integrated architecture, engineering, construction, system integration, and consulting firm committed to helping our clients realize their most critical goals from Strategy ...

Clayco (LJC)

Senior Controls Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

The Role We Want You For We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer - Mission Critical to lead the design, development, and implementation of Building Management Systems (BMS), Industrial Control ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Surprise, AZ

Controls Engineer information

See Surprise, AZ salary details

$53.3K

$93.6K

$127K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Surprise, AZ is $93,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $104,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Surprise, AZ? For Controls Engineer jobs in Surprise, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Surprise, AZ are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Surprise, AZ with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Surprise, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,637 per year, or $45 per hour.

Controls Engineer

APEL Extrusions Inc.

Phoenix, AZ

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Controls Engineer
*Controls Systems Engineer / Electrical Automation Engineer
Position Summary
Apel Extrusions is seeking a highly motivated and hands-on Controls Systems Engineer to support, maintain, and improve the automation, electrical controls, industrial networking, and manufacturing information systems throughout our aluminum extrusion operations. This position plays a critical role in maximizing equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives across the facility.
The Controls Systems Engineer will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Engineering, IT, contractors, and OEMs to troubleshoot complex manufacturing equipment issues, develop engineering solutions, and lead automation projects from concept through commissioning. This role requires strong technical expertise in PLCs, HMIs, drives, SCADA systems, industrial networking, and manufacturing systems integration, as well as a willingness to actively engage on the production floor diagnosing and resolving equipment issues.
This is a plant-based position requiring frequent presence in a non-temperature-controlled manufacturing environment, active participation in troubleshooting activities, and direct interaction with operating and maintenance personnel.
Primary Responsibilities
Industrial Automation & Controls
  • Design, program, troubleshoot, modify, and maintain:
    • Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix PLCs
    • Allen-Bradley PowerFlex Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs)
    • Allen-Bradley PanelView HMIs
    • Servo systems, motion controls, and associated automation equipment
    • Industrial Ethernet communication networks
  • Modify PLC and HMI programs to improve equipment reliability and functionality.
  • Implement machine safety logic, interlocks, and control strategies.
  • Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, instrumentation, communications, and automation faults.
  • Support installation, startup, commissioning, and validation of new equipment and control systems.
  • Develop and maintain standardized programming practices, electrical documentation, and control narratives.
  • Maintain backups and revision control of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and drive programs.
SCADA & Manufacturing Systems
  • Develop, maintain, and improve Ignition applications.
  • Create dashboards, alarm management systems, reports, historian configurations.
  • Configure user security and role-based access controls.
  • Develop scripting and automation within Ignition.
  • Support manufacturing data acquisition and visualization initiatives.
  • Troubleshoot data collection, historian performance, and system integration issues.
SQL & ERP Integration
  • Maintain SQL databases supporting manufacturing operations.
  • Develop SQL queries, stored procedures, reports, and data analytics tools.
  • Interface production equipment with SQL-based ERP and business systems.
  • Support manufacturing KPI reporting, production analytics, and operational decision-making.
  • Troubleshoot data integrity and communication issues between manufacturing equipment and enterprise systems.
Industrial Networking & Cybersecurity
  • Support industrial automation networks integrated with the corporate IT infrastructure utilizing dedicated VLANs.
  • Configure, maintain, and troubleshoot:
    • Managed Ethernet switches
    • Ethernet/IP communications
    • Industrial network devices
    • VLAN communications
    • Network reliability and performance
  • Coordinate with Corporate IT regarding cybersecurity, firewall configurations, network architecture, and system updates.
Maintenance & Operations Support
  • Actively participate in troubleshooting and resolving equipment failures alongside maintenance technicians, engineers, and operations personnel.
  • Lead root cause investigations for recurring equipment and process issues.
  • Develop corrective actions and long-term solutions to eliminate repetitive failures.
  • Create preventive and predictive maintenance strategies for automation and controls systems.
  • Track equipment downtime, failure frequencies, and reliability metrics.
  • Provide technical training and mentorship to maintenance personnel and electrical trades.
Engineering & Continuous Improvement
  • Lead controls modernization, automation upgrades, and continuous improvement projects.
  • Evaluate obsolete hardware and develop replacement and migration strategies.
  • Support capital projects from concept development through commissioning and startup.
  • Review and participate in equipment modifications and capital installations while ensuring compliance with applicable engineering standards.
  • Facilitate risk assessments, value analyses, and engineering studies to support repair, replacement, or redesign decisions.
  • Manage contractor and OEM activities during equipment repairs, upgrades, and installations.
  • Develop engineering solutions that improve safety, reliability, productivity, quality, and operational efficiency.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related engineering discipline; or
  • Licensed Journeyman Electrician with advanced PLC/Automation certification and equivalent industrial experience.
  • Minimum 5 years of industrial automation and controls experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience programming Allen-Bradley PLC platforms, including ControlLogix and CompactLogix.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PowerFlex drives.
  • Experience developing and troubleshooting HMI systems.
  • Experience with Ignition SCADA.
  • Strong SQL database knowledge and development experience.
  • Experience integrating manufacturing equipment with ERP and manufacturing systems.
  • Knowledge of Ethernet/IP and industrial networking systems.
  • Strong electrical and controls troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and project management skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in aluminum extrusion, metals manufacturing, or other continuous manufacturing operations.
  • Experience with Rockwell Studio 5000.
  • Experience with FactoryTalk products.
  • Experience with OPC UA communications.
  • Knowledge of industrial cybersecurity best practices.
  • Experience with SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS), Microsoft Power BI, and Microsoft Fabric.
  • Understanding of ISA-95 manufacturing architecture.
Working Environment
This position is primarily plant-based within a heavy industrial manufacturing environment. The Controls Systems Engineer is expected to maintain a significant presence on the production floor and actively engage with maintenance, operations, and engineering personnel to troubleshoot equipment and implement improvements.
Requirements include:
  • Physical interaction with machinery for troubleshooting, testing, commissioning, and maintenance support.
  • Participation in planned maintenance outages, equipment startups, and capital project installations.
  • Occasional after-hours, weekend, or emergency support as required to maintain critical production equipment.
  • Strict adherence to all company and regulatory safety procedures.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The successful candidate is a hands-on manufacturing automation professional who is equally comfortable troubleshooting equipment on the production floor, developing PLC and SCADA applications, analyzing manufacturing data, supporting industrial networks, and leading engineering improvement projects. They thrive in a fast-paced manufacturing environment, enjoy solving complex problems, and possess a strong commitment to safety, reliability, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.
*Recruiters and Staffing agencies- please kindly do not reach out*

PI28c0c3aebfc8-25405-41119842