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Controls Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AAON, Inc.

Manager, Controls Engineering

Redmond, OR · On-site

$88K - $114K/yr

The Manager, Controls Engineering leads the Controls Engineering team responsible for the design, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of HVAC control systems and ...

Connect Force

Controls Engineering Supervisor

Wixom, MI

$110K - $120K/yr

Controls Engineering Supervisor Location: Metro Detroit Area (Confidential Manufacturing Company) Industry: Precision Machinery / Advanced Manufacturing Employment Type: Full-Time Company Overview A ...

AAON, Inc.

Manager, Controls Engineering

Redmond, OR · Hybrid

$88K - $114K/yr

The Manager, Controls Engineering leads the Controls Engineering team responsible for the design, programming, commissioning, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of HVAC control systems and ...

Recutify Inc.

Controls Engineering Supervisor

Lancaster, OH · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Controls Engineering Supervisor to lead automation and controls initiatives within a manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for overseeing controls ...

Connect Force

Controls Engineering Supervisor

Novi, MI

$110K - $120K/yr

Controls Engineering Supervisor Location: Metro Detroit Area (Confidential Manufacturing Company) Industry: Precision Machinery / Advanced Manufacturing Employment Type: Full-Time Company Overview A ...

Connect Force

Controls Engineering Supervisor

Canton, MI

$110K - $120K/yr

Controls Engineering Supervisor Location: Metro Detroit Area (Confidential Manufacturing Company) Industry: Precision Machinery / Advanced Manufacturing Employment Type: Full-Time Company Overview A ...

TREW LLC

Supervisor, Controls Engineering

West Chester, OH · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

The Supervisor, Controls Engineering leads a team of PLC controls engineers that design and implement electrical controls systems for automated material handling equipment. This is supervision of ...

Kahler Automation

Controls Engineering Manager

Fairmont, MN · On-site

$130K - $195K/yr

Controls Engineering Manager Reports to: VP of Engineering & Operations Department: Engineering Location: 808 Timberlake Road, Fairmont, MN 56031 Position Summary: The Controls Engineering Manager ...

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Controls Engineering information

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$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do controls engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineering 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 is controls engineering?

Controls engineering is a specialized field of engineering that focuses on designing, developing, and implementing systems that manage, command, direct, or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems. Controls engineers use principles from electrical, mechanical, and computer engineering to automate processes, improve efficiency, and ensure safety in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy. Their work often involves programming controllers, designing feedback systems, and integrating sensors and actuators to achieve precise control over machinery and processes.

How does a controls engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Controls Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to ensure seamless integration of automated systems. They are responsible for developing and implementing control strategies that meet project specifications, which often involves coordinating with design, installation, and commissioning teams. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as Controls Engineers must align their solutions with the overall project goals and troubleshoot cross-disciplinary issues that arise during development and testing phases.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often analyzing data and troubleshooting issues. The role typically requires knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and software engineering principles, along with relevant certifications and technical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and industry certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems in industrial environments.

How much do controls engineers get paid?

Controls engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $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 are often complemented by benefits such as overtime pay, technical training, and opportunities to work with automation tools like PLCs and SCADA systems.
More about Controls Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Controls Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Controls Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Controls Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Controls Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineering jobs are:
Controls Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineering 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 Engineering Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI

$80K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Electrical Controls Engineering Manager

West Michigan (Relocation Available)
Full-Time | Direct Hire
Minimal to No Travel

A well-established custom automation and industrial systems integrator is seeking an Electrical Controls Engineering Manager to lead and support a growing controls engineering team. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys staying technical while guiding engineers through complex, customer-driven automation projects.
The company specializes in custom automated systems for automotive and truck manufacturing, including adhesive lines, bonding systems, and robotic automation.

Why This Role Stands Out
  • Lead a team of Controls Engineers and Test Engineers
  • Hands-on programming — not a desk-only management role
  • Minimal to no travel
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Stable organization with ~100 employees
  • Strong, repeat customer base in automotive and truck manufacturing
What You’ll Be Doing
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Controls and Robot Engineers
  • Oversee PLC, HMI, and robotic control system design for custom automation projects
  • Review and approve programs, safety layouts, schematics, and documentation
  • Act as the technical escalation point for complex automation challenges
  • Collaborate closely with Mechanical Engineering, Project Management, and Sales
  • Interface directly with customers on technical reviews and project execution
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards, quality requirements, and regulatory expectations
Technology Environment
  • PLCs: Allen-Bradley (primary)
  • Robotics: Fanuc (primary), some ABB
  • Automation Focus:
    • Adhesive and bonding systems
    • Automotive and truck body components
    • Robotic material handling and assembly
What We’re Looking For
  • 10+ years of automation controls experience
  • Prior leadership or team-lead experience in a custom automation environment
  • Strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming background
  • Fanuc robot programming experience (ABB a plus)
  • Comfortable being hands-on when projects demand it
  • Customer-facing experience and strong communication skills
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or equivalent experience
Reporting Structure
  • Reports to the Managing Director, with direct visibility to executive leadership
Location & Relocation
  • Preference for Midwest-based candidates
  • Relocation assistance is available


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.