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Controls Engineer Jobs in Thornton, CO (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer II

Thornton, CO · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer II Summary Forge Nano Inc. is a fast-growing materials company with a focus on manufacturing nano-scale coatings across a wide range of markets. Forge Nano is seeking a Controls ...

Controls Engineer II

Thornton, CO · On-site

$90 - $105/hr

Controls Engineer II Forge Nano Inc. is a fast‑growing materials company with a focus on manufacturing nano‑scale coatings across a wide range of markets. Forge Nano is seeking a Controls ...

Controls Engineer II

Thornton, CO · On-site

$90 - $105/hr

Controls Engineer II Forge Nano Inc. is a fast‑growing materials company focused on manufacturing nano‑scale coatings. We are seeking a Controls Engineer II to join our Engineering Design and ...

The Controls Engineer serves as a valuable member of the Generac Microgrid Controls Team. This role owns projects endtoend-from sales handover through system development, commissioning, and ongoing ...

New

Controls Engineer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

As a Controls / Automation Engineer, you will be working across industries to provide outstanding Operational Technology related programs, interfaces, documentation and support. You could be working ...

Controls Engineer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

The Controls Engineer role at Mikron Automation is ideal for professionals with foundational experience in automation and mechanical design. You'll contribute independently to the development of ...

Controls Engineer

Denver, CO

$85K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer in Denver, CO, to support the design, implementation, and project management of large-scale automation projects, primarily in the oil & gas industry, with ...

Controls Engineer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

The Controls Engineer role at Mikron Automation is ideal for professionals with foundational experience in automation and mechanical design. You'll contribute independently to the development of ...

Controls Engineer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

The Controls Engineer role at Mikron Automation is ideal for professionals with foundational experience in automation and mechanical design. You'll contribute independently to the development of ...

Controls Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer in Denver, CO, to support the design, implementation, and project management of large-scale automation projects, primarily in the oil & gas industry, with ...

Controls Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

We are presently seeking a Controls Engineer that be responsible for maintaining automated manufacturing tools, identifying opportunities for enhanced operational efficiency, and implementation of ...

Controls Engineer

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

ENR Top 500 Firm We have a Controls Engineer opportunity in Lakewood, CO. This person will be a member of a team responsible for the design, implementation, and project management of large-scale ...

Controls Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Working knowledge of industrial control panel design and fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and engineering documentation such as P&IDs and process flow diagrams * Experience with field ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Engineer information

See Thornton, CO salary details

$56.2K

$98.7K

$133.9K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Thornton, CO is $98,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,400.00 and $110,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Thornton, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Thornton, CO are:

What cities near Thornton, CO are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Thornton, CO with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Thornton, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,747 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Controls Engineer II

Forge Nano

Thornton, CO • On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Controls Engineer II
Summary
Forge Nano Inc. is a fast-growing materials company with a focus on manufacturing nano-scale coatings across a wide range of markets. Forge Nano is seeking a Controls Engineer II to join their Engineering Design and Manufacturing Team, reporting to the Principal Engineer. This position will focus on developing the automation, logic, and safety schemes for their Semiconductor ALD Production Equipment.
Key responsibilities include working in several different programming paradigms including user displays, database management, and control logic. This role requires a detailed oriented individual who is comfortable working with an interdisciplinary engineering team. Experience with control panels, low-voltage instrumentation, and electrical distribution is also desirable.
Responsibilities
The Controls Engineer II may be responsible for tasks and skills such as (non-exhaustive):
• Developing and debugging PLC logic using IEC 61131-3 approved languages, primarily rooted in Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text programming
• Designing intuitive GUIs and HMIs within relevant standards such as ISA-101 or SEMI E-95
• Generating control narrative documentation for interlocks, control loops, alarms, etc.
• Contributing technical writing for the software sections of user manuals and SOP's
• Executing on design requirements for new software features
• Working in cross-functional teams and participating in design review meetings to solicit user feedback on control schemes and software features
• Specifying, configuring and troubleshooting industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, IO-Link, etc.
• Programming controls safety logic to HAZOP Specification
• Commissioning and start-up of automated systems at Forge Nano's HQ and at customer facilities throughout the world
• Providing remote software support and troubleshooting assistance to tool service teams
• Following best practices for version control and release of software/controls packages
• Working with internal R&D experts on process development and improving ease-of-use
• Tailoring and tuning controls to optimize the performance of new processes and modules
Required Experience and Qualifications
• 2-4 years of experience in technical controls programming
• 2-4 years of experience in equipment design and manufacturing
• Experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT structured text programming
• Experience with Ignition, Allen Bradley Studio 5000, Python a plus
• Develops PLC logic and HMI's in multiple platforms and/or across multiple product lines
• Plans and creates complete software features, modules, and utilities with limited oversight
• Revises software design requirements and leads design reviews
• Collaborates on the design of industrial control panels and specification of controls hardware
• Independently manages multiple encapsulated projects and solves moderate engineering challenges
• Programs Safety Controls Logic to HAZOP Specification
• Incorporates simple motion control, including VFD's, motors, and actuators
• Configures Servers, Network Protocols, and Communication Architectures for external database management (e.g Historians, OPC-UA, SQL, ...)
• Expands control system architecture and contributes to UML codebase documentation
• Leads commissioning of automated systems internally and in the field
• Familiarity with industrial standards: SEMI S2, SEMI E-95, ISA-101, ISA-88 and/or IEC 61131-3
Work Environment
This is an on-site role. The employee will be required to wear all appropriate safety equipment including but not limited to eye protection, gloves, steel toe shoes, lab coat, and in the plant, a hard hat. Strict adherence to corporate and/or plant policies, rules and regulations in these areas is required. Forge Nano follows all recommended COVID-19 safety protocols and accepted candidates must be willing to adhere to these policies.
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 accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The employee occasionally will work near moving mechanical parts. The noise level in the work environment is moderate. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
Travel
Occasional travel up to 15% to client locations for system start-up and maintenance may be required.
Compensation / Benefits
• Salary: $90,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year, DOE, with eligibility for an annual bonus
• Comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, 401(k) with matching, PTO, paid holidays, paid parental leave, and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) options
About Forge Nano
Forge Nano is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.