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Controls Software Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Controls Software Engineer

Allen Park, MI ยท On-site

$119K - $157K/yr

As an Embedded Controls Software Engineer, you will be a critical contributor to the design, development, and validation of advanced embedded control software for next-generation automotive systems.

Senior Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI ยท On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

This position bridges controls software engineering efforts with commissioning activities, particularly in the development and integration of new products. What you'll be handling * Lead the handover ...

Staff Software Engineer, Controls

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site

$53.50 - $68.25/hr

We are looking for an experienced Controls Software Engineer who is passionate about safety-critical systems to join our Motion Planning & Controls team. In this role, you will: * Be responsible for ...

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Controls Software Engineer information

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$19

$48

$66

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls software engineer in the United States is $48.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.51 and $55.53 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 understanding of control theory and system integration.

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

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 is a controls software engineer?

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.

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.
More about Controls Software Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Controls Software Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Controls Software Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Controls Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Controls Software Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Controls Software Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Controls Software Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Software Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Controls Software 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 $101,452 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Engine Controls Software Engineer

Ford Motor Company

Dearborn, MI โ€ข On-site

$120K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description


At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. We also believe in providing you with the freedom to define and realize your dreams. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career potential as you help us define tomorrow's transportation.
Do you have what it takes to make smart vehicles for a smart world? Join the Ford Product Development team. Utilizing Design Thinking & User Experience methods, you'll work to deliver breakthrough products and services that delight our customers. We're seeking forward-thinking, laser-focused professionals with a passion for bringing innovative, exciting, and sustainable ideas to life. We have opportunities around the world for you to contribute to such advancements as autonomy, electrification, smart mobility technologies, and more!
Responsibilities
What you'll be able to do:
Engine Controls Software Engineer - positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned worksite. Hence, the employee must live within a reasonable commuting distance from the worksite. Design, develop, and implement vehicle control software related to the powertrain (engine, transmission, driveline, and electric motors) and driver assist interfaces with electrification functions, adhering to Ford's software standards. Capture and maintain requirements for vehicle control features, document changes using Ford's MBD process and tools, and create and execute validation plans using simulation, hardware-in-the-loop, and in-vehicle resources. Manage feature configuration and complexity for a wide range of vehicle programs and powerpacks, and maintain high levels of compatibility and commonality with Gas, Diesel, HEV, and BEV powerpack configurations.
Qualifications
You'll have...
Bachelor's degree or foreign equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering or a related field and 4 years of experience in the job offered or a related occupation. 4 years of experience with each of the following skills is required: 1. Design power train control algorithms and associated software functions. 2. Programming embedded automotive controls in C language. 3. Testing and debugging of automotive embedded controls. 3 years of experience with each of the following skills is required: 1. Software version controls, Clearcase and Github. 2. Matlab Simulink Software Development and Simulation. 1 year of experience with the following skill is required: 1. Vehicle communications including CAN, LIN, or SENT.
We are offering a salary of $120,349.00 - $192,900.00/yr. You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
โ€ข Immediate medical, dental, and prescription drug coverage
โ€ข Flexible family care, parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
โ€ข Vehicle discount program for employees and family members, and management leases
โ€ข Tuition assistance
โ€ข Established and active employee resource groups
โ€ข Paid time off for individual and team community service
โ€ข A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
โ€ข Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
For a detailed look at our benefits, click here:
https://fordcareers.co/GSR-HTHD
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
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About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982