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Controls Systems Designer Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Houston, TX

$71K - $93K/yr

Review and approve control system designs, logic, and documentation produced by other engineers or ... Lead controls-focused projects from concept through deployment, including scope definition ...

Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$71K - $93K/yr

Review and approve control system designs, logic, and documentation produced by other engineers or ... Lead controls-focused projects from concept through deployment, including scope definition ...

Controls System Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

PLC, Gas Turbines, Controls System Engineer Standards SCADA Allen Bradley PLC Control System ... Experience with gas generator/rotation equipment, package and sub-system designs. * Holistic ...

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Controls Systems Designer information

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$16

$37

$60

How much do controls systems designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls systems designer in Houston, TX is $37.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.79 and $43.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 job categories do people searching Controls Systems Designer jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Systems Designer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Controls Systems Designer jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Controls Systems Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Systems Designer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,173 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Controls Systems Engineer (BAS/DDC/BMS/UMCS/FRCS) - International / OCONUS

Johnson Controls Federal Systems

Houston, TX • Remote

$115K - $150K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 410 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

138th of 543 rated manufacturers


Job description

We are seeking a Controls Specialist / Controls Systems Engineer to join our federal team supporting U.S. military and other U.S. federal government sites Outside the Continental United States (OCONUS). Our OCONUS team supports projects for the U.S. government, primarily for the Department of State supporting U.S. Embassies and for the Department of Defense supporting U.S. military bases in foreign countries (no designated war zone countries). Travel is based on the project needs, but typically around 80%.

At Johnson Controls, we support our nation’s most critical facilities, the people who occupy them, and the missions they enable. Johnson Controls Federal Systems (JCFS) is a specialized team serving as a trusted partner to the federal government. We help modernize U.S. military installations, Department of Defense and other federal agency facilities to be smarter, more resilient, efficient, sustainable, and secure.

Pay Range: Typical base salary is in the $115,000 - $150,000 range based on experience and depending on location and assignment. Daily per diem provided when traveling. Bonus eligible on top of base salary. Will explain full compensation details further during interview.

Location: Virtual / Remote (work from home) - can be based anywhere in the United States. Will require up to 80% international travel in roughly 90 day durations (some times less depending on location and project scope). Will not travel to any designated war zone countries. All travel related expenses are provided by the company.
Benefits: Eligible for benefits on first day of employment
Vacation: 3 weeks of paid vacation, 5 sick days, 3 floating holidays, and 10 standard holidays per calendar year

As a Controls Specialist / Controls Systems Engineer, you will:

  • Under general direction, acts as the on-site project leader to execute and complete HVAC controls and other Building Automation System (BAS) projects with assigned customers in a safe and cost effective manner. Performs or delegates tasks as required to execute and fully complete assigned projects including: system programming, installation coordination, system and network commissioning, training and project closeout
  • Participates in the installation of hardware designs and software programming using established standards as required. Provides detailed information to communicate design and operation to customers, Johnson Controls staff and subcontractors
  • Manages and completes the loading, device verification, and commissioning of all system controllers as required. Validates complete system functionality and resolves issues with subcontractors and others to ensure proper operation. Provides accurate project as-built and commissioning documentation.
  • Test and write modifications to systems software
  • Provides coaching, mentoring and technical assistance. Provides technical assistance to subcontractors
  • Performs site-specific training for owner/operator on the total system in full or with assistance. Ensures owner/operator has been trained. Provides proper documentation and manuals for system operation
  • Follows all safety standards and has the highest regard for employee and subcontractor safety

Required Qualifications:

  • Must have technical, hands-on experience in system commissioning and/or programming of digital HVAC controls systems (DDC systems).
  • Knowledge of a variety of electronic or digital controls systems, HVAC controls systems, facilities management systems, site preparation, peripheral equipment installation and servicing techniques
  • Must have knowledge of control theory and HVAC systems and equipment.
  • Strong personal computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc) and general Windows environment.
  • Must have the ability to communicate technical material to a non-technical audience.
  • Must have the ability to work independently and also as part of a team
  • Ability to travel approximately 80% of the time to international / overseas locations (will not be sent to any designated war zone countries)
  • U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret (or higher) security clearance required. (This involves a background/character, criminal history, employment, and credit check.). Active Secret (or higher) clearance strongly preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Demonstrated experience and proficiency working with Johnson Controls Metasys or Tridium® Niagara Direct Digital Control (DDC) system
  • Experience with BAS communication protocols including at least one of the following:  BACnet MSTP, BACnet IP, N2, P1, Modbus, and/or LON
  • Experience using SMP, SCT, and/or CCT
  • Experience supporting projects in foreign countries
  • Prior experience supporting projects at U.S. military or other federal government sites


Who We Are

At Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI), we are One Team working collaboratively to create purposeful solutions that make a difference in the world. We are a Fortune 500 company with more than 100,000 employees worldwide offering the world`s largest portfolio of building technology products, solutions and services. As a member of our Federal Systems team, your work matters. We value and recognize your contributions and want to help you succeed. We invest in our employees, provide opportunities for growth and advancement, and foster a culture of inclusion and respect.

To learn more about who we are and what we do, please check out our Take a Journey video.  

Recently, Johnson Controls has been recognized by several organizations for leadership in Environment, Sustainability and Governance, as well as innovations in smart building platforms:

  • Named to FORTUNE’s “Most Admired Companies” List
  • Corporate Knights Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World
  • Named to Forbes Net Zero Leaders list
  • CDP 2023 Climate Change 'A List'
  • Ranked 67 on the Drucker Institute’s list of best-managed companies in America
  • Forbes Best Employers for Diversity
  • Newsweek  America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity
  • Ethisphere 2024 World's Most Ethical Companies list for the 17th time
  • Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Women in 2024
  • Named to Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces for Veterans 2024 / 2025 listing
  • Named to Forbes America’s Best Employers for Veterans 2024
  • Named one of the top military friendly employers by military.com.

Johnson Controls is an equal employment opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. For more information, please view EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com/careers

Division: JCFS (Johnson Controls Federal Systems)

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US