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Controls Engineer Jobs in Vancouver, WA (NOW HIRING)

Discover your exciting role The Exentec team in Sherwood, OR is seeking a driven Process Controls Engineer to take ownership of designing, programming, installing, commissioning, and optimizing PLC ...

As a Project Controls Engineer, you will serve as a critical strategic partner within project teams, safeguarding the financial and operational integrity of major CAPEX initiatives through rigorous ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Engineer information

See Vancouver, WA salary details

$57.6K

$101.1K

$137.1K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Vancouver, WA is $101,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,400.00 and $113,100.00 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 Vancouver, WA?

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

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Vancouver, WA?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Vancouver, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Vancouver, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Vancouver, WA are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Vancouver, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,109 per year, or $48.6 per hour.

Process Controls Engineer

Exyte Group

Sherwood, OR • On-site

$99K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Discover your exciting role
The Exentec team in Sherwood, OR is seeking a driven Process Controls Engineer to take ownership of designing, programming, installing, commissioning, and optimizing PLC-based control systems that power cutting-edge manufacturing and industrial process environments.
Explore your tasks and responsibilities
  • Design, program, test, and commission PLC-based control systems for industrial processes and equipment
  • Develop and modify control logic, HMI/SCADA screens, and system documentation
  • Install, configure, and validate PLC hardware, I/O panels, field instruments, and networked devices
  • Support startup activities, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis for control system issues remotely or on a customer site
  • Collaborate with design engineers to translate customer process requirements into control strategies
  • Maintain and improve existing control systems to enhance reliability, safety, and performance
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, electrical codes, and internal engineering standards
  • Comply with control system backups, version control, and change management protocols
  • Provide technical support to customers
  • Assist with capital projects, including customer coordination, FAT/SAT, and system acceptance
  • Other duties as assigned

Show your expertise
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation, or a related field
  • 1 - 5 years experience programming and commissioning PLC systems in an industrial environment
  • Hands-on experience with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley (Rockwell), Siemens, or equivalent
  • Experience with HMI/SCADA platforms (e.g., FactoryTalk, WinCC, Ignition, Wonderware)
  • Strong understanding of industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, etc.)
  • Ability to read and develop electrical schematics, P&IDs, and control documentation
  • Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills
  • International travel may be required for system installation, commissioning, training, or troubleshooting

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with batch or continuous manufacturing processes
  • Knowledge of safety PLCs, machine safety standards, and functional safety concepts
  • Experience with instrumentation calibration and process control tuning (PID)
  • Familiarity with change management systems and regulated manufacturing environments common in the semiconductor manufacturing industry
  • Project management or leadership experience on automation projects
  • Experience with the following software:
    • Allen Bradley/Rockwell Studio 5000 CompactLogix
    • Omron Sysmac Studio
    • Maple Systems EB-PRO
    • Microsoft Visual Studio VB PRO

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.
Non-Solicitation: We are not currently accepting third-party agency candidates for this position. Any agency candidate submitted to any employee of Exyte may be contacted by Exyte without obligation to the third-party agency.
Exyte US, Inc. and its subsidiaries are proud to be an Affirmative Action and Equal Employment Opportunity employer that is committed to celebrating diversity and supporting an inclusive workplace where associates excel based on personal merit, qualifications, experience, ability, and job performance. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, age, sex (e.g., pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.
Contact:
You want to be part of the Exyte team? We look forward to receiving your application!
For further questions and information, please do not hesitate to contact Phillip Turner via E-Mail at phillip.turner@exyte.net
Please note that we only consider applications submitted through our application portal. Applications sent via email will not be considered due to data protection regulations.