ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lead Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Opportunity Group, Inc.

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 ...

Axis Automation

Technical Lead Controls Engineer

Walker, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Level 5 - Technical Lead Controls Engineer - Position Description - Position Overview: The Technical Lead Controls Engineer is the department's pinnacle technical role. This engineer designs and ...

Veolia

Lead Controls Engineer

Hopkins, MN · On-site

$0.05 - $0.06/hr

Lead Controls Engineer * 5951 Clearwater Dr, Minnetonka, MN 55343, USA * Full-time * Contract type: Standard Company DescriptionVeolia Group is a global leader in environmental services, operating ...

Veolia - USA

Lead Controls Engineer

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

Lead Controls Engineer * 5951 Clearwater Dr, Minnetonka, MN 55343, USA * Full-time * Contract type: Standard Company DescriptionVeolia Group is a global leader in environmental services, operating ...

Axis Automation

Technical Lead Controls Engineer

Walker, MI · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Level 5 - Technical Lead Controls Engineer - Position Description - Position Overview: The Technical Lead Controls Engineer is the department's pinnacle technical role. This engineer designs and ...

Water Technologies

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 ...

Veolia Environnement SA

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 ...

Upwing Energy

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build, implementation and sustaining of electromechanical drive and system controls. This position will own the architectural and detailed ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA

$97K - $126K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of the Mission Critical data center team to support the design, development, deployment, installation, and commissioning of industrial ...

In-finite Search Solutions

Be Seen First

Lead Controls Engineer

Toledo, OH · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

... lead engineer Programming controllers with Rockwell and Siemens Designing electrical control ... controls platform, preferred systems below: Rockwell Controllogix Rockwell PlantPAx Rockwell ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$97K - $126K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of the Mission Critical data center team to support the design, development, deployment, installation, and commissioning of industrial ...

In-finite Search Solutions

Be Seen First

Lead Controls Engineer

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

... lead engineer Programming controllers with Rockwell and Siemens Designing electrical control ... controls platform, preferred systems below: Rockwell Controllogix Rockwell PlantPAx Rockwell ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

North Haven, CT · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: North Haven, CT Job Summary: We are seeking a skilled Controls Engineer ... Lead controls architecture reviews, safety assessments, and equipment readiness evaluations

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Controls Engineer Jobs

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 Jul 28, 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 processes or machinery. They often coordinate teams, utilize programming tools like PLCs and SCADA, and ensure systems meet safety and performance standards. Strong technical skills, project management, and industry certifications are typically required for this role.

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 high-demand industries or with significant expertise in automation, control systems, and certifications may also reach or exceed this salary level.

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 engineers make $200,000 a year?

Lead Controls Engineers and other senior engineering roles in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries. Compensation often includes bonuses and stock options, and these roles typically require strong technical skills and leadership abilities.

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.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Lead Controls Engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, oil and gas, or high-level automation can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Such roles often require expertise in PLCs, SCADA systems, and control system design, along with strong project management skills.
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:
What job categories do people searching Lead Controls Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Controls Engineer jobs are:
Lead Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Lead Controls Engineer

Lead Controls Engineer

Opportunity Group, Inc.

Plainwell, MI • On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer for a custom machine builder near Plainwell, MI. This is a direct-hire leadership role with minimal overnight travel (around 10%). The ideal candidate has strong Allen-Bradley PLC experience, some exposure to Siemens, and an interest in leading a small controls team.

What you’ll do:
  • Lead and mentor a team of Electrical / Controls Engineers.
  • Design and program Allen-Bradley PLCs and HMIs (ControlLogix / CompactLogix, FactoryTalk, etc.).
  • Integrate robots and vision systems into automated equipment.
  • Troubleshoot and optimize control systems to improve reliability and uptime.
  • Oversee projects from concept through installation and runoff.
  • Manage controls-related component selection and ordering.
  • Collaborate with Machine Designers and Project Managers to ensure projects are accurate, on time, and within scope.
  • Support customers as needed with minimal overnight travel (10%).

What we’re looking for:
  • Proficiency with Allen-Bradley PLCs (MicroLogix, ControlLogix/RSLogix/Studio 5000), HMIs, and FactoryTalk.
  • Experience with AutoCAD and SCADA is preferred.
  • 4+ years of PLC programming in an industrial automation environment.
  • Robotics experience (any brand) is a plus.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort being hands-on with equipment.
  • Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop other engineers.
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and project-management skills.
  • Willingness to travel overnight about 10%.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States (citizen or permanent resident).
  • BSEE or related engineering degree is preferred but not required for candidates with strong relevant experience.

Compensation & benefits:
  • Base salary: $115,000 - $140,000 per year (depending on experience).
  • Comprehensive benefits package including 401(k), medical, dental, life insurance, bonus potential, and more.

To apply:
Email your resume to greatjobs@opportunitygroup.com with “Lead Controls Engineer” in the subject line