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Controls Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Process Controls Manager Memphis, TN (Hybrid) Direct Hire Opportunity Recruiting Partner: Gateway Group Personnel Gateway Group Personnel is seeking an experienced Process Controls Manager for a ...

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Acts as the key seat to the Project Controls Manager; leads by example and can train, coach, and mentor Project Coordinators within the team * Subject Matter Expert of project billing processes and ...

Acts as the key seat to the Project Controls Manager; leads by example and can train, coach, and mentor Project Coordinators within the team * Subject Matter Expert of project billing processes and ...

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Controls Manager information

See Tennessee salary details

$70.8K

$121.3K

$154.7K

How much do controls manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls manager in Tennessee is $121,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $154,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Controls Managers face when overseeing automation projects?

Controls Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring that control systems integrate seamlessly with existing processes. They must also stay updated with evolving technologies while maintaining compliance with safety and industry standards. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as troubleshooting unexpected issues and adapting to changing project scopes are regular parts of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Manager, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, usually supported by a relevant degree and industry experience. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and coordinating with other departments. These skills ensure efficient system operation, project success, and compliance with safety and industry standards.

What is the difference between Controls Manager vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls ManagerControls Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often requires leadership experienceBachelor's or master's degree in engineering, control systems, or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees control systems projects, manages teams, coordinates with clientsDesigns, develops, and tests control systems, often working hands-on with equipment
Industry UsageCommonly found in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectorsTypically involved in engineering design and implementation in similar industries

Controls Managers focus on overseeing control systems projects and leading teams, while Controls Engineers are more involved in designing and developing control systems. Both roles require technical expertise, but the Controls Manager has additional leadership responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role in automation and control systems industries.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Controls Managers in large corporations or specialized industries can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High-level executive roles such as Chief Controls Officer or Director of Controls may also reach this compensation level, often including bonuses and stock options. These roles typically require strong technical skills, strategic oversight, and years of industry experience.

What does a controls manager do?

A controls manager oversees the design, implementation, and maintenance of control systems used to regulate machinery and processes in manufacturing or industrial settings. They ensure systems operate efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations, often using tools like PLCs and SCADA. Strong technical knowledge, leadership skills, and relevant certifications are typically required for this role.

What construction jobs pay 100k a year?

Controls Managers in construction can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. High-paying roles often require knowledge of control systems, project management skills, and the ability to oversee complex projects in commercial or industrial construction environments.

What is the highest paying manager position?

The highest paying manager positions often include executive roles such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer (COO), and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In the context of controls management, senior-level roles like Director of Controls or Vice President of Controls can also command high salaries, especially in large corporations or industries with complex control systems. Compensation varies based on industry, company size, location, and experience, with executive roles typically offering the highest pay packages.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Controls jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Controls Manager jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Controls Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Manager job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,311 per year, or $58.3 per hour.
Controls Manager

Controls Manager

Gateway Group Personnel

Memphis, TN โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Process Controls Manager
Memphis, TN (Hybrid)
Direct Hire Opportunity
Recruiting Partner: Gateway Group Personnel
Gateway Group Personnel is seeking an experienced Process Controls Manager for a leading Memphis-area client. This is a strategic leadership opportunity for a process controls and automation professional who can define long-term automation vision while also serving as a hands-on technical resource. The successful candidate will play a critical role in driving automation strategy, managing external partners, supporting project execution, and ensuring process control systems align with business objectives.
This position reports directly to the Director of Engineering and offers a hybrid work environment with a combination of in-office and remote work flexibility.
Position Summary
The Process Controls Manager will serve as the company's subject matter expert for automation and process control systems, providing strategic direction while supporting operational excellence across projects and facilities. This role will initially operate without a dedicated internal controls team, making the ability to independently execute and drive results essential.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, project leadership, and vendor management experience. This individual will collaborate with Engineering, IT, Sales, suppliers, and external service providers to ensure automation initiatives support business goals, compliance requirements, and future growth.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
  • Define and execute the company's long-term automation and process control strategy.
  • Develop and maintain multi-year automation and optimization roadmaps.
  • Evaluate emerging technologies, industry trends, and customer needs to identify opportunities for innovation.
  • Guide capital investment planning to ensure automation systems remain reliable, scalable, and competitive.
  • Serve as the organization's primary controls and automation subject matter expert.
Automation & Controls Management
  • Assess existing automation and process control systems to identify improvement opportunities.
  • Support planning and execution of automation projects, including review of:
    • Specifications
    • Proposals
    • Electrical drawings
    • P&IDs
    • PLC programming
    • Project documentation
  • Coordinate controls support contracts, service calls, and system health assessments.
  • Provide troubleshooting support for automation systems and testing environments as needed.
Vendor & Partner Management
  • Oversee external automation and controls service providers.
  • Manage vendor relationships, contract compliance, service quality, and project performance.
  • Ensure third-party partners align with company standards and customer expectations.
Compliance & Performance
  • Ensure compliance with applicable quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
  • Monitor and report key performance indicators, risks, budgets, and project progress.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives through performance analysis and data-driven decision making.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with Engineering, IT, Sales, Operations, and suppliers to align automation initiatives with business priorities.
  • Act as a liaison between executive leadership, operational teams, and external technology partners.
  • Represent North American automation requirements and preferences within the broader organization, with particular emphasis on Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation platforms.
Qualifications
Required Education
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Automation, Industrial Systems, or a related technical field.
Required Experience
  • 7+ years of experience in process controls, automation, or industrial systems.
  • Proven experience leading automation projects and managing external vendors or service providers.
  • Experience developing automation strategies and long-range technology plans.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulations, including:
    • NEC
    • NRTL
    • ISO
    • GMP
    • OSHA
Technical Knowledge
  • Strong knowledge of:
    • PLC systems
    • SCADA platforms
    • MES systems
    • Industrial IoT technologies
    • AI/ML applications in manufacturing and automation
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley control systems strongly preferred.
  • Ability to analyze performance metrics such as OEE, quality, efficiency, and reliability.
  • Understanding of risk management and compliance frameworks including SIL and ISO standards.
Professional Skills
  • Strategic planning and organizational leadership
  • Vendor and stakeholder management
  • Project governance and execution
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Financial and budgeting acumen
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Continuous improvement mindset
Software Proficiency
  • Microsoft Office Suite:
    • Word
    • Excel
    • PowerPoint
    • Outlook
    • Teams
    • OneNote
    • SharePoint
Travel & Work Environment
  • Hybrid work schedule with both office and remote work opportunities.
  • Ability to travel to customer, project, and vendor sites as needed.
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Pre-employment background screening and drug testing will be required.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through Gateway Group Personnel.
Gateway Group Personnel is proud to partner with leading employers throughout the Mid-South and is committed to connecting talented professionals with exceptional career opportunities.