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Lead Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead - Controls Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site +1

$79K - $103K/yr

Title: Team Lead - Controls Engineer (multiple openings) Worksite Location: Position may telecommute from anywhere in the U.S. and requires travel to U.S. customer sites 25% to 40% of the time.

Lead Controls Engineer

Portage, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and is eager to learn, adapt, and lead. This role is ideal for someone with a ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Portage, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and is eager to learn, adapt, and lead. This role is ideal for someone with a strong technical foundation in ...

Controls Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Lead Controls Engineer - Low Travel | Custom Automation. We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer for a custom machine builder in the Kalamazoo, MI area . This is a direct-hire leadership role with ...

Controls Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Lead Controls Engineer - Low Travel | Custom Automation. We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer for a custom machine builder in the Kalamazoo, MI area . This is a direct-hire leadership role with ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Lansing, MI

$104K - $136K/yr

The Lead Controls Engineer be able to work autonomously with occasional guidance from supervision and ME Controls Lead Engineer. Skilled in PLC, HMI, Robot, Weld, Torque and Test control systems;

Lead Controls Engineer

Lansing, MI · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

The Lead Controls Engineer be able to work autonomously with occasional guidance from supervision and ME Controls Lead Engineer. Skilled in PLC, HMI, Robot, Weld, Torque and Test control systems;

Controls Engineer III

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

The Controls Engineer III will lead controls engineering efforts from concept through commissioning, supporting the design, integration, installation, and startup of advanced manufacturing systems.

Support the Lead Controls Engineer in the development, execution, and refinement of Siemens-based automation systems. * Program, configure, and troubleshoot Siemens PLCs using TIA Portal to meet ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Veolia is currently searching for an experienced controls engineer to support the production of ... Dynamically lead and effectively interface with manufacturing, sales, marketing, and other support ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Hopkins, MN

$85K - $110K/yr

Veolia is currently searching for an experienced controls engineer to support the production of ... Dynamically lead and effectively interface with manufacturing, sales, marketing, and other support ...

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Lead Controls Engineer information

See salary details

$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead controls engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead controls engineer?

A lead controls engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing control systems for industrial automation and manufacturing processes. They often coordinate teams, troubleshoot system issues, and use tools like PLCs and SCADA software to ensure operational efficiency and safety.

What are Lead Controls Engineers?

Lead Controls Engineers are professionals responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of control systems used in manufacturing, automation, or industrial processes. They lead teams to ensure that machinery and equipment operate efficiently, safely, and in accordance with industry standards. Their work often involves programming PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineering disciplines. Additionally, they play a key role in project management, technical leadership, and client communication.

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

To thrive as a Lead Controls Engineer, you need deep expertise in control systems design, automation, and electrical engineering, usually backed by a bachelor's degree in engineering and several years of relevant experience. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and often certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or specific vendor certifications are typically required. Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving abilities, along with effective communication, distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the successful delivery of complex automation projects, leading teams, and maintaining operational reliability.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. Lead Controls Engineers in industries like automation or manufacturing may also reach this level with significant expertise and project responsibilities.

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

AspectLead Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; often requires experience in project managementBachelor's degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLead projects, coordinate teams, oversee control system design and implementationAssist in control system design, programming, and troubleshooting
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process industries, often in leadership rolesManufacturing, automation, industrial facilities, typically as technical staff

The main difference between a Lead Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in responsibility and experience. The Lead Controls Engineer oversees projects and manages teams, requiring more experience and leadership skills, while the Controls Engineer focuses on technical tasks like system design and programming. Both roles require similar technical credentials but differ in scope and seniority.

What are some typical challenges a Lead Controls Engineer faces when managing multidisciplinary project teams?

As a Lead Controls Engineer, you’ll often collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and software backgrounds. One common challenge is ensuring clear communication across these disciplines to integrate control systems seamlessly with other engineering components. You’ll also need to balance project timelines while troubleshooting technical issues that may arise during commissioning and testing phases. Strong leadership and project management skills are essential for aligning team efforts, managing resources, and delivering robust, compliant solutions on schedule.

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

Lead Controls Engineers, a specialized role within electrical engineering, can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation and control systems, and leadership responsibilities. Such high salaries are typically found in senior positions, highly specialized industries, or in regions with high living costs, often supplemented by bonuses or profit sharing.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Lead Controls Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior executive roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires a strong background in control systems, programming, and project management.
More about Lead Controls Engineer jobs
What states have the most Lead Controls Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Controls Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Lead - Controls Engineer

Lead - Controls Engineer

Hy-Tek

Columbus, OH • On-site, Remote

$79K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Title: Team Lead - Controls Engineer (multiple openings)
Worksite Location: Position may telecommute from anywhere in the U.S. and requires travel to U.S. customer sites 25% to 40% of the time.
Duties: Hy-Tek Material Handling, LLC seeks Team Lead - Controls Engineer (multiple openings) to work with Manager of Controls Engineering to improve data analytics techniques and tools, standardize and improve output, and drive process efficiency to promote consistent, best in class output from the team. Host recurring team meetings to ensure alignment and provide opportunity for collaboration. Design, install, optimize, and adapt electronic control systems and instruments to automate and monitor industrial processes. Develop technical designs, process diagrams, SCADA block diagrams, and control schematics to implement automation controls. Configure systems using PLC and HMI techniques. Develop and deploys HMI applications. Model, test, and measure output and data to analyze performance or quality issues and develop Solutions. Manage Scanner and Camera setup and deployment. Work is primarily independent and collaborative in nature. Contribute to moderately complex aspects of a project. Responsible for HR related tasks such as performance reviews, approving and reviewing timecards, and approving time off requests. Review and verify work for newer, less experienced data analysts. Assist with coordinating Controls Engineer assignments and provide team member support and Mentoring. Assist in onboarding, and training of Controls Engineers. Mentor newer, less experienced Engineering team members ensuring that they are meeting Hy-Tek standards and procedures, properly analyzing data, and utilizing tools available. May provide guidance and/or share knowledge of all aspects of the role with team.
Requirements: Bachelor's degree or higher in electrical engineering. 7 years of experience in controls engineering. 5 years of experience with design, inter-connection and configuration of PLCs systems. 5 years of experience with Conveyor and Robotic Systems within material handling or manufacturing environments. 7 years of experience in Electrical Design and Engineering. 5 years of experience in Material handling or manufacturing. 5 years of experience in PLC Programming including 5 years of experience in Allen Bradley and RSLogix 5000. Position may telecommute from anywhere in the U.S. and requires travel to U.S. customer sites 25% to 40% of the time.
To apply: Apply online or email resume to Jalisa Moberley at Jalisa.moberley@hy-tek.com. Reference job title (Team Lead - Controls Engineer) and number (0753507) in subject line.

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About HYTEK

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Supermarkets and grocery stores

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

2004