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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

CommScope, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

How You'll Help Us Connect the World As a Senior Controls Engineer , you will play a pivotal ... You will partner closely with manufacturing, process, mechanical, electrical, software, and quality ...

CommScope Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Shakopee, MN

$103K - $136K/yr

How You'll Help Us Connect the World As a Senior Controls Engineer , you will play a pivotal ... You will partner closely with manufacturing, process, mechanical, electrical, software, and quality ...

Cypress HCM

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 ... Perform systems integrations using a wide variety of protocols including basic software * Ensure ...

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All JobsControls Software Engineer JobsControls Software Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Controls Software Engineer information

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$19

$47

$64

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls software engineer in Minnesota is $47.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.60 and $54.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectControls Software EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Software Engineering; often requires experience in control systemsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; may require certifications in automation systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing control software for machinery and industrial systemsDesigning, implementing, and maintaining automated processes and systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, robotics, process controlManufacturing, process industries, robotics

Controls Software Engineers focus on developing control algorithms and software for machinery, while Automation Engineers design and optimize automated processes. Both roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope: controls software is more software development-centric, whereas automation emphasizes process improvement and system integration.

What does a controls software engineer do?

A controls software engineer designs, develops, and maintains software that controls machinery and industrial systems. They typically work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), embedded systems, and automation tools to ensure equipment operates efficiently and safely. Strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or ladder logic are essential, along with knowledge of control theory and system integration.

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

To thrive as a Controls Software Engineer, you need a strong background in control systems theory, programming (such as C/C++ or PLC languages), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, SCADA systems, and industry-specific automation platforms is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) being advantageous. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex system challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable and efficient automated control systems in industrial settings.

What are Controls Software Engineers?

Controls Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software used to control machines, industrial processes, or automated systems. They work at the intersection of hardware and software, creating programs that direct how machinery operates in sectors like manufacturing, automotive, and robotics. Their responsibilities often include writing control algorithms, configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. Controls Software Engineers collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, and process engineers to deliver integrated solutions. This role requires strong programming skills, an understanding of control theory, and familiarity with industrial automation tools.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Controls Software Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working in high-paying industries or companies can earn salaries of $200,000 or more annually. Achieving this often requires advanced knowledge of automation, control systems, and proficiency with programming languages like C++ or Python, along with certifications or leadership roles. Salary levels vary based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Controls Software Engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and relevant certifications. High compensation often reflects seniority, complex project responsibilities, and working in competitive or high-demand environments.

How does a Controls Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware and mechanical teams during a project?

As a Controls Software Engineer, collaboration with hardware and mechanical teams is integral throughout the project lifecycle. You will frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to align software controls with hardware specifications and system requirements. This may involve reviewing electrical schematics, discussing sensor integration, and conducting joint troubleshooting sessions during system commissioning. Open communication and a willingness to adapt your code based on physical system feedback are key to ensuring seamless system performance and successful project delivery.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior controls software engineers working in industries like automation, robotics, or aerospace with advanced skills and certifications may also reach this level, especially in senior or executive roles.
What are popular job titles related to Controls Software Engineer jobs in Minnesota? For Controls Software Engineer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Software Engineer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Software Engineer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Software Engineer jobs in MN? For Controls Software Engineer jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Controls Software Engineer jobs near you
Principal Software Engineer- Machine Automation

Principal Software Engineer- Machine Automation

IPG Photonics

Minneapolis, MN

$140K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

IPG Photonics rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

96th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

IPG's Material Processing Systems Group is focused on integrating state-of-the-art IPG lasers into turn-key systems to be used in the semiconductor, medical and other industries. We are seeking a Principal Software Engineer to join the Material Processing Systems Group in the development of advanced laser-based manufacturing systems. This position serves as a principal technical contributor responsible for designing, implementing, and supporting software solutions for IPG's laser processing equipment.

The successful candidate will leverage extensive experience in industrial automation, machine control, and software engineering to develop new machine capabilities, improve existing platforms, and support customer-driven enhancements. While working within established software architectures, this individual will provide technical leadership, mentor less experienced engineers, and help drive engineering excellence across projects.

In addition to software development responsibilities, the Principal Software Engineer will work closely with manufacturing, applications, service, and project teams to support machine builds, system integration, commissioning activities, and project execution on the production floor. This role requires strong system-level problem-solving skills and the ability to coordinate efforts across software, electrical, mechanical, and applications engineering disciplines.

  • Analyze machine requirements, customer requests, and engineering specifications to develop software solutions for laser-based material processing systems.
  • Design, implement, test, and maintain software features within established machine control architectures.
  • Serve as a technical leader and subject matter expert within assigned projects and areas of responsibility, providing technical guidance and collaborating with other principal engineers to align engineering standards and implementation approaches.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level engineers through design reviews, code reviews, troubleshooting, and technical guidance.
  • Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, controls, and applications engineers to deliver integrated machine solutions.
  • Support machine integration, testing, validation, and commissioning activities during machine builds.
  • Provide technical leadership for assigned projects and coordination during machine build, integration, commissioning, and acceptance activities, ensuring software deliverables are executed according to project objectives and engineering standards.
  • Diagnose and resolve complex system-level issues involving software, motion control, machine vision, communications, and hardware integration.
  • Drive software quality through adherence to coding standards, testing practices, and maintainability guidelines.
  • Evaluate and implement improvements to existing machine architectures, software frameworks, and development processes.
  • Support field service teams and customers in resolving advanced software and machine performance issues.
  • Participate in customer visits and occasional domestic or international travel to support installations and project execution.

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