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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbus, GA (NOW HIRING)

As an Azure Security Engineer, you should be hands-on in all aspects of Azure security including implementing security controls and threat protection, managing identity and access management ...

As an Azure Security Engineer, you should be hands-on in all aspects of Azure security including implementing security controls and threat protection, managing identity and access management ...

Nuclear Engineer

Shiloh, GA

$99K - $118K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Hurtsboro, AL

$92K - $111K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Manufacturing Process Engineer

Lagrange, GA · On-site

$66K - $88K/yr

Engineering Manager FLSA Category: Hourly Salaried - Exempt Direct Reports: None POSITION SUMMARY ... controls; coordinates manufacturing launch for new or revised products. POSITION DUTIES AND ...

Nuclear Engineer

Richland, GA

$86K - $103K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Manchester, GA

$102K - $122K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lumpkin, GA

$84K - $101K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

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Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Columbus, GA salary details

$49.2K

$86.4K

$117.3K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Columbus, GA is $86,445.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $96,700.00 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.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Electrical engineers, including controls engineers, typically earn salaries below $500,000 annually, with top earners in specialized industries or executive roles reaching higher compensation. Achieving such a salary usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, leadership positions, or working in high-paying sectors like aerospace or energy. Most control engineers earn between $70,000 and $130,000 per year, depending on location and expertise.

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 $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 controls engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or advanced manufacturing can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, bonuses, and profit sharing. These positions often require advanced skills in automation, programming, and certifications, along with extensive industry experience.

How much do control engineers get paid?

Control engineers typically earn a median annual salary between $70,000 and $110,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized control engineers with advanced skills in automation, PLC programming, and control systems may earn higher salaries, especially in high-demand sectors like manufacturing and energy.
What job categories do people searching Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs in Columbus, GA are:
What cities near Columbus, GA are hiring for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbus, GA with the most Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:
OT Network Engineer - Power Systems

$84K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 41 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

As a Network Engineer - Power Systems (OT), you will be responsible for providing expert technical support and power system automation solutions. Your role will involve teaching, advising, and supporting customers to ensure the reliability and safety of power grids.

At Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL), our mission is to make electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical. Our company prides itself on embracing the values of quality, reliability, integrity, and excellent customer service. We were named as one of Fortune Magazine's 100 Best Workplaces for Millennials and among the top Best Workplaces for Baby Boomers. Working at SEL means having the opportunity to explore different career options - from customer service, sales, technical support, to management. We encourage professional development because when you are your best, that is when we are our best. So, what do you say? Ready to take the next step?

As a Network Engineer - Power Systems (OT), a typical day might include:

  • Knowledge and understanding of SONET technology, multiplexers, and legacy TDM interface e.g. C37.94, Async (EIA232)

  • Maintaining and improving knowledge of power systems communications such as fiber links, radio connections, IP systems, switches, routers, LAN/WAN networks, servers, and TCP/IP.

  • Helping customers apply SEL products through visits, demonstrations, training courses and telephone contact.

  • Applying principles, theories, standard techniques, and concepts to provide solutions to a variety of problems.

  • Contributing to product specifications, application and testing software, and literature.

  • Participating in SEL marketing and sales activities, industry technical meetings, and conferences.

  • Supporting SEL products and solution troubleshooting to get to root cause of a problem

  • Contributing to and reviewing white papers, application guides, industry journals, and technical papers.

This role might be for you if you...

  • Desire to learn how the power system transmits and receives information between protective devices and the operational systems.

  • Desire to be involved in the cutting-edge technology of communication technology and protocols.

  • Are familiar with fiber optic, microwave and spread-spectrum radio.

  • Have experience with wired protection and control network communications systems, including TDM and Ethernet technologies, communications test sets and analyzers, time synchronization and distribution, and industry network design and security practices

  • Have a passion for teaching others for their growth and for yours

  • Enjoy applying creativity to your engineering solutions everyday

  • Enjoy every day being different versus everyday being predictable

We are looking for someone with the following qualification:

  • A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. A master's degree is preferred

  • A minimum of 3 years of experience with power system automation and controls

  • Relevant work experience and knowledge of wired protection and control network communications systems, fiber optic, microwave and spread-spectrum radio

  • Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with customers

  • Strong communication and presentation skills

  • Excellent problem-solving skills and a desire to learn new technologies

  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment

  • The ability to travel 25%

Location

We are open to this position being located in one of the following locations:

  • Columbus, GA

  • Alpharetta, GA

  • Wesley Chapel, FL

  • Charlotte, NC

Competitive pay. Superior benefits. Inspiring work.

People are at the core of our company and we hire employee-owners. We welcome you to learn more about how we support employees.

  • We're 100% employee owned. Retirement benefits include an employer funded stock ownership plan (ESOP) and personal 401(k) options.

  • We offer top tier medical, prescription, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.

  • We recognize the importance of a healthy life balance and offer: 10 paid holidays, annual vacation accrual starting at 12 days, 9 paid sick days, and paid family and medical leave that covers 90% of your pay.

  • We foster growth and development of our employees through avenues such as STEM courses, apprenticeships, tuition assistance, and engineering development programs.

  • Ask our team about other benefits including wellness, fertility, adoption, and flexible spending benefits.

Pay Range Data

$84,200 - $160,000 per year. Our pay ranges are determined by job, responsibility, and location. We base our starting pay offer on job-related factors such as candidate experience, training, knowledge, and skills.

Communication with Applicants

We communicate with all applicants. If you do not receive a response about your application, please check your SPAMfilteror reach out to us at careers@selinc.com.

SEL is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Vets/Disabled.


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