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Controls Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Purple Hires Inc

Controls Engineer

Green Valley, AZ · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Tucson Proving Ground, Arizona (100% Onsite) Job Summary We are looking for a Controls Engineer to support the testing, integration, and validation of autonomous haul ...

Caterpillar

Machine Controls Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$97K - $146K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering or equivalent education. Top Candidates Will Also Have : Machine controls requirements development and validation experience. Machine/Vehicle performance requirements ...

Raytheon

Motor Controls Engineer II

Tucson, AZ

$78K - $102K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

Raytheon

Motor Controls Engineer II

Tucson, AZ

$78K - $102K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

Raytheon Technologies

Motor Controls Engineer II

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$78K - $102K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and butter ...

Socket.dev

Senior GNC-AutoPilot Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$145 - $190/hr

Senior Guidance Navigation & Controls Engineer Autopilot Design | Stability & Control | Supersonic / Hypersonic Flight Envelope Job Title Senior Guidance Navigation and Controls Location On-site ...

Prattwhitney

Principal Motor Controls Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$107.50 - $204.50/hr

Participate as SME on Controls Hardware Electronics. Qualifications (Must) * Degree in STEM ... Advanced degree in Electrical Engineering. * Self‑starter, quick learner, strong time management ...

Raytheon

Senior Motor Controls Engineer

Tucson, AZ

$98K - $135K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

Raytheon

Senior Motor Controls Engineer

Tucson, AZ

$98K - $135K/yr

Raytheon's Hardware Electrical Engineering Team is looking for junior engineers who have electronics knowledge to support the design and test of electronic products and systems. Our bread and ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Controls Engineer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$52K

$91.3K

$123.9K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Tucson, AZ is $91,308.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,900.00 and $102,100.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

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For Controls Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,308 per year, or $43.9 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Purple Hires Inc

Green Valley, AZ • On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Controls Engineer
Location: Tucson Proving Ground, Arizona (100% Onsite)
 
 
Job Summary
We are looking for a Controls Engineer to support the testing, integration, and validation of autonomous haul truck systems. The role involves creating test plans, executing vehicle testing, troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and software issues, analysing test data, and working closely with software development teams to improve autonomous machine performance.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop and update test plans for autonomous vehicle systems.
  • Perform integration and validation testing on autonomous haul trucks.
  • Analyse test data and prepare test reports.
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, and software issues.
  • Document defects and communicate findings with engineering teams.
  • Collaborate with software developers and field operators.
  • Support continuous improvement of autonomous systems.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field (or equivalent relevant experience).
  • 2–4 years of experience in controls, vehicle testing, validation, or autonomous systems.
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for complex systems.
  • Proficiency with Windows operating systems.
  • Good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred Skills
  • Ubuntu/Linux experience.
  • Test planning and documentation.
  • Ability to read electrical schematics.
  • Experience with autonomous systems, perception, planning, or positioning technologies.
Work Environment
  • 100% onsite at Caterpillar's Tucson Proving Ground.
  • Outdoor environment with hot, dry, and dusty conditions.
  • Must be physically able to frequently climb on and off large mining equipment while carrying a backpack.