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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Cleveland, TN

Adecco Permanent Recruitment has partnered with a manufacturing client in the Chattanooga, TN area to find a full-time Controls Engineer to design, program, and support industrial automation and ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

The Controls Software Engineer will be a part of a dynamic team of engineers working on the development of control/automation code for heavy construction equipment, ranging from road pavers, road ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

The Controls Software Engineer will be a part of a dynamic team of engineers working on the development of control/automation code for heavy construction equipment, ranging from road pavers, road ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

The Controls Software Engineer will be a part of a dynamic team of engineers working on the development of control/automation code for heavy construction equipment, ranging from road pavers, road ...

Electrical I&C Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · Hybrid

$105K - $135K/yr

Electrical or Controls Engineering is preferred. * Client projects for this position require U.S. Citizenship. * Minimum of eight (8) years of I&C design experience in industrial processing, power ...

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Electrical Controls PE

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Current Professional Engineer (PE) license in Electrical Engineering in Tennessee and Georgia ... Provide technical guidance and mentorship to controls engineers, draftsmen, and panel building ...

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Electrical Controls PE

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Current Professional Engineer (PE) license in Electrical Engineering in Tennessee and Georgia ... Provide technical guidance and mentorship to controls engineers, draftsmen, and panel building ...

This role works directly with customers, field crews, controls engineers, mechanical engineers, project managers, and vendors to ensure combustion equipment operates safely, reliably, and in ...

* The Controls Technician 2 will work in conjunction with the maintenance, production and engineering departments. The primary job responsibility is to support production through effective and timely ...

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Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Cleveland, TN salary details

$46K

$80.8K

$109.6K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Cleveland, TN is $80,801.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $90,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable automation solutions in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Controls Engineers face when working on automation projects?

Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues, and ensuring that all control systems meet safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to resolve technical problems efficiently. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving industry standards and technologies is crucial for long-term success in this role.

What is the difference between Engineer Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesPower plants, electronics, telecommunications, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower systems, electronics, telecommunications

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial environments, but their primary responsibilities and areas of expertise differ.

What are Controls Engineers?

Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems used to control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with hardware and software to ensure automated systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Controls Engineers often program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), develop control algorithms, and troubleshoot automation issues. Their work is critical in optimizing production processes and integrating new technologies within industrial environments.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation and control systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles are often found in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, where complex systems and advanced technical expertise are required.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior control engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve leadership responsibilities, working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing, and may require expertise in PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages such as Python or C++.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced control engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working in specialized industries like aerospace or oil and gas, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Skills in troubleshooting, programming, and understanding system integration are essential in this role.
What job categories do people searching Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Cleveland, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Cleveland, TN are:
What cities near Cleveland, TN are hiring for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Cleveland, TN with the most Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:
Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chattanooga, TN • Hybrid

$84K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source.  Our electric power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR).  This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group.  Due to this influx of work, Sargent & Lundy has a need for I&C Engineers.

As a Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, you will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:

  • Digital Systems -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreen displays, network switches and control systems.
  • Functional Requirement and Procurement Specifications for instrumentation and control components and systems.
  • Process instrumentation replacement evaluation reports and nuclear modification packages.
  • Prepare documentation for design input for drawing production including cable block diagrams and schematics.
  • Interface with vendors and prepare equipment purchase specifications.
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements.
  • Development of P&ID’s and System Design Descriptions.
  • Attend client meetings and perform site walkdowns to ensure the client is satisfied with our work product.
  • Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced nuclear instrumentation and controls design engineers.
  • Support station outage activities as required .

This position is based on a hybrid work schedule and will require in-office work 3 days per week.


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

Essential skills and experience:

  • A BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program

  • 5 or more years of experience in design engineering for process control systems
  • Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others.

Valued but not required skills and experience

  • Experience in design engineering for nuclear power plant control system.
  • PE License

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$84,762 - $129,498
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we’ve been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!


Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


Sargent & Lundy logo

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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