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Controls Systems Designer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Develop detailed electrical designs for low & medium voltage switchgear & controls for systems that control multiple generators and parallel to one or more utility sources * Research & create Bill of ...

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Controls Systems Designer information

What is a controls systems designer?

A Controls Systems Designer is a professional who develops and implements systems that control machinery, processes, or devices within industries such as manufacturing, automation, and building management. They design control schemes, select hardware and software, and create detailed schematics and documentation. Their work ensures that automated systems operate safely, efficiently, and according to specifications. Controls Systems Designers often collaborate with engineers, electricians, and project managers to integrate and troubleshoot these control systems.

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

To thrive as a Controls Systems Designer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, automation principles, and control theory, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with PLC programming, CAD software, SCADA systems, and industry standards like IEC 61131 is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in interdisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure reliable and efficient system designs that meet client specifications and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a controls systems designer when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Systems Designers often collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and timelines. Effective communication and a strong understanding of each discipline's needs are essential to ensure seamless integration of control systems with other project components. Additionally, adapting to evolving project specifications and resolving unforeseen technical issues require flexibility and proactive problem-solving skills. Navigating these challenges successfully helps ensure project goals are met and fosters strong professional relationships within the team.

What is the difference between Controls Systems Designer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Systems DesignerControls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are commonSimilar credentials, often with engineering degrees and certifications such as CCST or PE licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused roles often in office settings, collaborating with engineers and project managersMore fieldwork involved, including installation, testing, and troubleshooting of control systems
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors for designing control systemsApplied in similar industries, with a focus on implementation and maintenance of control systems

Controls Systems Designers primarily focus on designing and planning control systems, while Controls Engineers are more involved in implementing, testing, and maintaining these systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, often within the same industries.

What are popular job titles related to Controls Systems Designer jobs in Colorado?

For Controls Systems Designer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Controls Systems Designer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Controls Systems Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Systems Designer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Senior Electrical / Instrumentation & Controls Designer 1 - Energy & Industrial

Sargent & Lundy

Aurora, CO • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 452 rated engineering


Job description

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days. 

  • This position will offer you the opportunity to work and lead others in a project team environment in the design, modification, and/or upgrade of new and existing Electrical / Instrumentation & Controls systems. 
  • You will have the opportunity to apply your computer-aided drafting skills, while mentoring others in design software environments, such as AutoCAD and/or MicroStation. 
  • Work as part of the Energy & Industrial Group as an Electrical/Instrumentation & Controls designer for a variety of projects which may include Power Generation Stations, Oil & Gas facilities, Carbon Capture/Emissions Controls, etc. 
  • Under the direction of the Electrical Project Lead, you will work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in the development physical and plan drawings to scale, showing relation of proposed installations to existing facilities and exact specifications and dimensions, as well as various non-physical drawings and diagrams. 
  • You will produce Electrical / Instrumentation & Controls deliverables packages, and review and incorporate vendor drawings into the overall project design. 
  • Provide support to other designers and project team members in order to ensure a complete and timely design. 
  • There will be opportunities to accompany and assist in field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities. 

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position. 

Essential skills and experience: 

  • A high school diploma and equivalent technical design experience 
  • Ten (10) or more years of Electrical/Instrumentation & Controls design experience, including 2D & 3D. 
  • Experience in the review of Electrical/Instrumentation & Controls deliverables packages. 
  • Extensive drafting experience using standard computer drafting tools (i.e. AutoCAD or MicroStation) on power plants or other large-scale industrial facilities projects 
  • A thorough understanding of drafting and design practices and theories. 
  • The ability to interface and communicate with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the power plant or large-scale industrial facilities design process. 
  • Experience in the development of grounding layouts, underground duct bank and embedded conduit drawings, cable tray and exposed conduit layouts, instrument location plans, area classification plans, and electrical equipment location drawings.  

Valued but not required skills and experience: 

  • Associates Degree in Computer Aided Design 
  • Experience using both AutoCAD and MicroStation software. 
  • Design experience in the development of single-line, and relay and metering diagrams, including medium-voltage and 480V systems. 
  • Familiarity with digital control systems. 
  • The ability to perform the following: 
  • Produce wiring diagrams and schematics for installers and electricians. 
  • Assist engineers with initial design requirements. 
  • Conceptualize plans and details to accurately convey wiring termination requirements. 

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    About Sargent & Lundy

    Sourced by ZipRecruiter

    Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

    Industry

    Civil engineering construction

    Company size

    1,001 - 5,000 Employees

    Headquarters location

    Chicago, IL, US

    Year founded

    1891

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