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Controls Hardware Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Controls Engineer - Automotive Hardware & Software We are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer with strong hardware and software engineering experience in the automotive industry . This role focuses ...

Controls Engineer (9618)

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Responsible for designing and integration of hardware controls hardware engineering projects within area of assigned responsibility. Need someone who is familiar with AutoCAD Qualifications Essential ...

Controls Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Coordinate with controls resources to ensure that hardware, software, and the related documentation ... Bachelor of Science in Engineering * Minimum five years of experience in development of PC and/or ...

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL · On-site

$160K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automation Location: Elgin, IL Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Up to $160,000 ... Review electrical schematics and support controls hardware architecture decisions * Create ...

Controls Engineer

Lewis Center, OH · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Controls Engineer Location : Lewis Center, OH Hire Type : Direct Hire Compensation : $100,000-$130 ... This role will be responsible for developing PLC and HMI software, integrating controls hardware ...

Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

We are seeking a talented Controls Engineer to design, program, and support custom automation ... This role will be responsible for developing PLC and HMI software, integrating controls hardware ...

Controls Engineer 3

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Proficient with application of programmable machine controls hardware and software. Proficient with application of Servo drive hardware and software. Proficient with AutoCad. Familiarity with basic ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$91K - $121K/yr

Who You Are In this role as our Senior Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, debugging, and delivering electrical controls hardware and software solutions for ...

BAS - Controls Design Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Controls Design Engineer / Hardware Engineer -Pittsburgh, PA - Building Systems Contractor POSITION: * Controls Design Engineer / Hardware Engineer LOCATION: * Pittsburgh, PA (South Pittsburgh) ABOUT ...

Hardware Engineer (MES)

Mount Laurel, NJ · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

The Work The Hardware Engineer will be supporting all of the Machinery Controls and Automation programs within RMS. This position will be responsible for coordinating with a multi-disciplinary team ...

Hardware Engineer (MES)

Mount Laurel, NJ · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

The Work The Hardware Engineer will be supporting all of the Machinery Controls and Automation ... programs within RMS. This position will be responsible for coordinating with a multi-disciplinary ...

Hardware Engineer (MES)

Mount Laurel, NJ · Hybrid

$75K - $142K/yr

The Work The Hardware Engineer will be supporting all of the Machinery Controls and Automation programs within RMS. This position will be responsible for coordinating with a multi-disciplinary team ...

UAS Hardware Engineer

Dayton, OH

$115K - $151K/yr

UAS Hardware Engineer LOCATION: Fairborn, Ohio, WPAFB REQUIRED SECURITY CLEARANCE: Top Secret / SCI ... Familiarity with autonomy and controls technologies such as: * PX4 and/or ArduPilot * ROS/ROS2

Hardware Engineer (MES)

Mount Laurel, NJ · Hybrid

$75K - $142K/yr

The Work The Hardware Engineer will be supporting all of the Machinery Controls and Automation programs within RMS. This position will be responsible for coordinating with a multi-disciplinary team ...

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Controls Hardware Engineer information

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$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do controls hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls hardware 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Hardware Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Hardware Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and automation systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming tools, and industry standards such as IEC or UL is commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this field. These competencies are essential for designing reliable control systems that meet safety, efficiency, and regulatory standards in industrial environments.

How does a Controls Hardware Engineer typically collaborate with software engineers and other team members during a project?

Controls Hardware Engineers often work closely with software engineers, project managers, and technicians to ensure seamless integration of hardware and control systems. Collaboration usually involves regular design meetings, joint troubleshooting sessions, and sharing detailed documentation to align hardware capabilities with software requirements. Open communication and teamwork are essential, especially when addressing technical challenges or implementing system upgrades. This cross-functional interaction not only enhances project efficiency but also helps broaden your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

What are Controls Hardware Engineers?

Controls Hardware Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement the physical components of control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and other industrial applications. They work with hardware such as sensors, actuators, controllers, and wiring to ensure that automated systems function safely and efficiently. Their responsibilities often include creating electrical schematics, selecting appropriate hardware, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with software and mechanical engineers. Controls Hardware Engineers play a key role in integrating hardware solutions that meet system requirements and industry standards.

What is the difference between Controls Hardware Engineer vs Controls Software Engineer?

AspectControls Hardware EngineerControls Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related; certifications like Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting hardware components in labs or manufacturing settingsDeveloping, testing, and maintaining control software in office or industrial environments
Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, robotics, process controlAutomation, industrial control systems, SCADA, PLC programming

Controls Hardware Engineers focus on designing and testing physical control systems and hardware components, while Controls Software Engineers develop the software that runs these systems. Both roles often collaborate but require different skill sets and certifications, serving complementary functions in automation and control industries.

More about Controls Hardware Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Controls Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Controls Hardware Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Controls Hardware Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Controls Hardware Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Controls Hardware Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Hardware Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Controls Hardware Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.
Controls Engineer - hardware and software

Controls Engineer - hardware and software

Great Lakes Group

Dundee, MI • On-site

$38 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

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Job description

Controls Engineer – Automotive Hardware & Software

We are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer with strong hardware and software engineering experience in the automotive industry. This role focuses on designing, developing, testing, and supporting advanced control systems, embedded software, and electrical hardware used in automotive applications.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with PLC programming, embedded controls, vehicle systems, automation, electrical troubleshooting, and software validation. This position requires a detail-oriented engineer who can work cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, quality, and production teams to support reliable, high-performance automotive systems.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and implement control systems for automotive hardware and software applications.
  • Program, test, and troubleshoot PLC systems, embedded software, and HMI interfaces.
  • Support development and integration of electrical hardware, sensors, actuators, controllers, and related vehicle or manufacturing systems.
  • Perform controls programming, debugging, calibration, and validation for automotive equipment and systems.
  • Analyze system performance and resolve issues related to automation systems, electrical controls, and software functionality.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, manufacturing, and quality teams to improve system reliability and performance.
  • Support hardware/software integration, system commissioning, and production launch activities.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation, including control logic, wiring diagrams, test procedures, and validation reports.
  • Participate in root cause analysis and corrective actions for controls-related failures or production issues.
  • Ensure compliance with automotive engineering standards, safety requirements, and quality expectations.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
  • Experience as a Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, or similar engineering role in the automotive industry.
  • Strong hands-on experience with both hardware and software controls.
  • Proficiency with PLC programming, control logic, troubleshooting, and system integration.
  • Experience with embedded systems, electrical systems, sensors, actuators, and industrial automation equipment.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
  • Knowledge of automotive manufacturing, vehicle systems, or automated production environments preferred.
  • Experience with software testing, system validation, debugging, and commissioning.
  • Strong problem-solving, analytical, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
  • Ability to support fast-paced engineering, production, and launch environments.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience with Siemens PLC, Allen-Bradley PLC, Rockwell Automation, TIA Portal, or similar platforms.
  • Knowledge of CAN communication, Ethernet/IP, Profinet, or other industrial communication protocols.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB/Simulink, LabVIEW, C/C++, Python, or automotive diagnostic tools.
  • Experience with robotics, motion control, machine controls, or automated test systems.
  • Understanding of APQP, PPAP, FMEA, and automotive quality processes.

Controls Engineer, hardware and software engineering, automotive industry, control systems, embedded software, electrical hardware, PLC programming, embedded controls, vehicle systems, automation, electrical troubleshooting, software validation, HMI interfaces, electrical controls, hardware/software integration, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Computer Engineering, Automation Engineer, embedded systems, electrical systems, electrical schematics, automotive manufacturing, system validation, Siemens PLC, Allen-Bradley PLC, Rockwell Automation, TIA Portal, CAN communication, Ethernet/IP, Profinet, MATLAB/Simulink, LabVIEW, C/C++, Python, robotics, motion control, machine controls, APQP, PPAP, FMEA

Company Description

Hiring Transparency & AI Disclosure Statement
In compliance with applicable Canadian employment regulations, we confirm that this job posting represents a current, active vacancy within our organization.
We do not use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to screen, assess, rank, or make hiring decisions. All applications are reviewed and evaluated by human recruiters and hiring managers.
If our hiring practices change in the future to include AI-assisted tools, appropriate disclosure will be provided in accordance with applicable laws.