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Controls Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

This role is integral in supporting and developing internal controls across business processes in North America. The role provides control expertise to improve processes, support governance ...

This role is integral in supporting and developing internal controls across business processes in North America. The role provides control expertise to improve processes, support governance ...

Controls Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

Working knowledge of industrial control panel design and fabrication, instrumentation and controls, and engineering documentation such as P&IDs and process flow diagrams * Experience with field ...

This role is integral in supporting and developing internal controls across business processes in North America. The role provides control expertise to improve processes, support governance ...

Showing results 41-60

Controls information

See Portland, OR salary details

$20

$36

$51

How much do controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls in Portland, OR is $36.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.58 and $40.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are controls?

In a company, 'Controls' refer to the systems, procedures, and policies put in place to ensure the organization's operations are efficient, compliant, and secure. These controls help manage risks by preventing errors, fraud, and data breaches, and they ensure that the company adheres to laws and regulations. Controls can be financial, operational, or IT-related, and are an essential part of corporate governance and risk management.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industrial automation software, along with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP), is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining efficient, safe, and reliable automated systems in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in controls engineering, and how can they be addressed?

Controls engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy systems, troubleshooting complex control loops, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. These challenges can be managed by staying updated with industry trends, using simulation tools to test solutions before implementation, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams like electrical and mechanical engineers. Regular training and proactive communication with stakeholders also help in addressing issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Controls vs Electrical Technician?

AspectControlsElectrical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or diploma in controls, automation, or electrical engineeringUsually holds an electrical trade certification or diploma
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly on automation systems, PLCs, and control panelsWorks on electrical wiring, installations, and maintenance of electrical systems
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, automation, and process industriesFound across construction, maintenance, and industrial sectors
Job FocusDesign, programming, and troubleshooting control systemsElectrical installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical equipment

Controls specialists focus on automation and control systems, including programming and troubleshooting PLCs, while Electrical Technicians handle electrical wiring, installations, and maintenance. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in their specific tasks and work environments.

Is controls engineering a good career?

Controls engineering is a stable and growing field that involves designing and maintaining automated systems using tools like PLCs and SCADA. It typically requires strong technical skills, problem-solving ability, and knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems, making it a valuable career in manufacturing, energy, and automation industries.

What is a job in controls?

A controls job involves designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting systems that regulate machinery, processes, or automation equipment. It often requires knowledge of control systems, programming, and tools like PLCs or SCADA, and may involve working in manufacturing, energy, or industrial environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Controls jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Controls jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Controls job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,938 per year, or $36 per hour.

Electrical Controls Engineer II

Applied Industrial Technologies

Sherwood, OR • On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Applied Industrial Technologies rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

269th of 419 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

Olympus Controls (www.olympus-controls.com) is a fast-paced Automation Company that has an opportunity for an Electrical Controls Engineer II to join our growing company. We offer a dynamic environment with competitive salary and health benefits for the right type of highly motivated individual.
The Electrical Controls Engineer's II role is that of key contributor to the Engineering Solutions team's success. Specifically, you will - in conjunction with the Electrical, Mechanical and Application Engineering teammates - participate in design, develop, test, deploy and support electro-mechanical solutions for machine and process automation applications ranging from single-axis stepper motor actuators to complex multi-axis vision-guided robotics, automated assembly machines, and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) systems, i.e., Mobile Robotics. You will contribute to and/or have limited ownership of the design of systems architecture, communications protocols, safety systems, electrical schematics generation and application specific software programming. As a level II controls engineer, you will use your growing knowledge and expertise in robots, servo and stepper control systems, feedback devices, PLC's, HMI's, communication protocols, vision system, control system electrical design to UL 508A standards.
This position calls for a well-organized, self-motivated person, who enjoys a variety of concurrent assignments while working with technology and people. It requires enthusiasm, creativity, flexibility, resiliency, excellent oral and written communication skills, and a professional and courteous personality. The successful candidate will have a hands-on approach to problem solving, be willing to learn and become proficient at programming and troubleshooting automation hardware (e.g., motion controllers, vision systems, robots, sensors).
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Working with fast-paced, world-class, technically savvy clients
  • Participate in delivering cutting-edge automation solutions including vision, motion, and robotics
  • Have ownership of an automation subsystem controls design under the guidance of the senior control's engineers
  • Assist in developing new automation technology
  • Collaborating in a supportive, open, high-growth, team environment
  • Drive for, and achieving, excellent project execution
  • Honoring our commitments, being accountable to your teammates and supporting our values
  • Participate in concepting automation solutions within a team of Mechanical, Electrical, and Application. Engineers
  • Drafting conceptual function diagrams of inter-related system elements (processors, components, inputs, etc.)
  • Draw electrical schematics of control systems to UL508a standards using SolidWorks electrical
  • Troubleshoot controls system (electrical, communications, software)
  • Writing and testing application code using best practices
  • Communicate your process, roadblocks, and status regularly
  • Working hands-on with a wide variety of technology and applications
  • Infrequent travel may be necessary from time to time, < 10%

Qualifications/Experience:
  • The preferred candidate will have a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or equivalent (master's degree preferred).
  • 2-5 years of relevant automation controls system design, coding, or troubleshooting experience required. (Vision system programming a plus)
  • Practiced knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC) or engineering level statistics classes
  • Computer literacy and Microsoft Office experience is a must
  • Proven experience with and understanding of mechatronics (e.g., robotics, vision systems)
  • Experience with and understanding of automation controls
  • Delivered examples of control system software code

Founded in 1923, Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE: AIT) is a leading value-added distributor and technical solutions provider of industrial motion, fluid power, flow control, automation technologies, and related maintenance supplies. Our leading brands, specialized services, and comprehensive knowledge serve MRO and OEM end users in virtually all industrial markets through our multi-channel capabilities that provide choice, convenience, and expertise.
Applied Industrial Technologies is built on a philosophy that puts people first. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to a workforce in which we enforce fair treatment and provide growth opportunities for everyone. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, color, national origin, genetics, religion, gender, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.

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