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Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Columbus, OH ยท On-site

$140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline, or equivalent controls engineering experience. * 4+ years of Controls Engineering experience within data centers ...

Controls Engineer

Elkin, NC ยท Hybrid

$77K - $99K/yr

Automation Controls Engineer Job Type: Full-time We provide turn-key material handling systems that serve a variety of industries including Distribution, Automotive, Manufacturing and Food & Beverage.

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL (Onsite) Duration: Long-Term Contract Type: W2 Contract Industry: Medical Devices Manufacturing We are actively hiring a Controls Engineer for a leading ...

Controls Engineer

Milwaukee, WI

$82K - $106K/yr

We are currently seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for a well-established, nationally recognized engineering firm that delivers innovative solutions across architecture, engineering, planning ...

Controls Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Lead Controls Engineer - Low Travel | Custom Automation. We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer for a custom machine builder in the Kalamazoo, MI area . This is a direct-hire leadership role with ...

Controls Engineer

Holland, MI ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Seeking a Controls Engineer for a growing machine builder in the Holland, MI area. This is a direct hire position with minimal travel. Preferred candidates will have experience with Allen Bradley and ...

Controls Engineer

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Job Title: Controls Engineer Department: Engineering Reports To: Engineering Team Leader Exemption Classification: Salary, Exempt Position is located onsite in Cincinnati Position Summary The ...

Controls Engineer

Denver, CO

$85K - $110K/yr

We are currently seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for a well-established, nationally recognized engineering firm that delivers innovative solutions across architecture, engineering, planning ...

Controls Engineer

Plymouth, MN

$88K - $114K/yr

A client is looking to add a Controls Engineer, either local to Minnesota or fully remote, to their Smart Building Control solutions team. This person will be responsible for implementing advanced ...

Controls Engineer

Athens, AL ยท On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

I came across your background and wanted to reach out regarding a Senior Controls Engineer opportunity with a leading manufacturer in Huntsville-Decatur AL Area . What caught my attention about your ...

Controls Engineer

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Job Title: Controls Engineer Department: Engineering Reports To: Engineering Team Leader Exemption Classification: Salary, Exempt Position is located onsite in Cincinnati Position Summary The ...

Controls Engineer

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer Department: Engineering Reports To: Engineering Team Leader Exemption Classification: Salary, Exempt **Position is located onsite in Cincinnati** Position Summary The Controls ...

Controls Engineer

Six Mile, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Six Mile , IL Seeking a Controls Engineer with 7+ years of experience in industrial automation and high-volume manufacturing. The ideal candidate will lead the design ...

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Controls Engineer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$90/hr

Controls Engineer Location: Nashville, TN Job Type: Full-Time | Contract Pay: $92.59 per hour Position Overview SGF Global is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to support a highly automated ...

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location : Libertyville, IL Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with 7+ years of experience in industrial automation or high-volume manufacturing ...

Controls Engineer

Warren, MI ยท On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

At BWI we are looking for a Controls Engineer for our Warren, MI plant. Controls Engineer Job Duties: * The Controls Engineer will Support the maintenance department by assisting in the ...

Controls Engineer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Austin, TX Summary: We are looking for a Controls Engineer with strong experience in Allen-Bradley PLCs to support automation and manufacturing systems. Responsibilities:

Showing results 41-60

Controls Engineer information

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$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in the United States is $96,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or stock options, and typically requires advanced knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages like Python or C++.

What Is a Controls Engineer?

Controls engineers design, develop, and test automated or dynamic systems that are controlled through feedback with sensors or detectors. Examples include automated irrigation systems that can sense moisture levels in soil, or self-driving cars that can navigate congested streets. Controls engineers apply control theory to devices, machines, and processes to attain desired outcomes. They can work on everything from boilers, washing machines, or light switches to complex industrial machinery.

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 exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators to ensure machinery operates efficiently and safely, often using engineering software and adhering to safety standards. Their role involves troubleshooting, system integration, and optimizing control processes to improve performance.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $110,000. Salaries often increase with proficiency in PLC programming, automation systems, and relevant software tools.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Controls engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can earn salaries of $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, aerospace, or energy. Senior-level engineers often have 10+ years of experience and expertise in PLC programming, robotics, and system integration.

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.
What cities are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? The top employers for Controls Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Controls Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Controls Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Insight Global

Columbus, OH โ€ข On-site

$140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Must Haves

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related engineering discipline, or equivalent controls engineering experience.
  • 4+ years of Controls Engineering experience within data centers, critical facilities, industrial infrastructure, building automation, or facility management systems.
  • Strong understanding of FMS/BMS system design concepts, architecture, installation, and integration.
  • Experience designing controls system models and overall control strategies for large-scale facilities.
  • Deep understanding of networking and communications protocols including:
    • Modbus
    • SNMP
    • TCP/IP
    • RS-485
    • Ethernet communications
  • Ability to read, interpret, and provide technical feedback on electrical schematics, controls drawings, and construction documents.
  • Experience reviewing construction drawings, equipment specifications, and customer requirements.
  • Knowledge of power and cooling infrastructure systems such as:
    • UPS systems
    • Generators
    • Chillers
    • Cooling systems

Pluses

  • Experience supporting data center projects or critical infrastructure facilities.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license.
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Revit.
  • Experience with commissioning, startup activities, and field validation of controls systems.
  • Knowledge of local, state, and federal codes governing building automation and controls systems.
  • Experience collaborating with architects, MEP firms, commissioning agents, and general contractors.
  • Project management experience supporting multiple concurrent projects.
  • Familiarity with modular data center construction and prefabricated infrastructure solutions.
  • Experience performing site audits and controls system assessments.

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design and delivery of facility and building management system (FMS/BMS) solutions for large-scale critical infrastructure and data center environments. This is not a PLC programming role. Instead, the engineer will focus on overall controls system architecture, networking protocols, and integration design, ensuring Vertiv's power and thermal infrastructure solutionsโ€”including UPS systems, generators, chillers, and cooling equipmentโ€”are properly connected, monitored, and controlled within the broader facility ecosystem.

The ideal candidate understands how electrical and mechanical systems integrate with modern controls and networking protocols and can translate customer requirements into scalable FMS/BMS designs.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

  • Act as the Controls Engineer throughout the full project lifecycle, from pre-sales support through commissioning and project closeout.
  • Design and develop FMS/BMS system architectures that align with customer requirements and Vertiv standards.
  • Create controls strategies that integrate power, cooling, and monitoring systems into a unified facility management platform.
  • Develop system-level controls models and determine how equipment communicates across the broader facility network.
  • Review customer specifications and translate requirements into functional controls designs.
  • Partner with third-party controls integrators and suppliers to develop detailed controls schemes and system solutions.
  • Review and provide feedback on schematic drawings, design packages, and construction documentation produced by external partners.
  • Generate bills of material and support modifications to standard controls assemblies when required.
  • Collaborate with Vertiv business units, contractors, architects, engineers, and vendors to ensure successful project execution.
  • Support quality control efforts during controls integration and implementation.
  • Review and approve FMS/BMS submittals and technical documentation.
  • Provide technical support during construction, installation, and commissioning phases.
  • Work directly with commissioning teams to validate system functionality, performance, and operational readiness.
  • Travel to customer sites to perform system reviews, troubleshooting, audits, startup support, and design validation.
  • Research and recommend new controls technologies, networking solutions, and innovative approaches to improve reliability, maintainability, and overall project value.
  • Serve as the technical subject matter expert for controls networking, system integration, and facility-level controls strategy.