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Lead Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

INA Solution Inc

Controls Engineer

Athens, AL · On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

... Lead controls projects from design through commissioning • Work with Siemens PLC, HMI, SCADA ... Engineering, Maintenance, and Production leadership • Opportunity to mentor engineers and ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

Plano, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

Plano, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

Lithia Springs, GA · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

In-finite Search Solutions

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Lead Controls Engineer

Abilene, TX · 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 ...

In-finite Search Solutions

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Lead Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI · 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

Lithia Springs, GA · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

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 ...

TEKBERRY

Controls Engineer III

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Lead controls engineering activities from concept development through installation, startup, and commissioning * Design, develop, and deploy integrated automation and machine control systems * Define ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

Lithia Springs, GA · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

E Tech Group

Lead Controls Engineer

Plano, TX · On-site

$79K - $103K/yr

We are seeking a Lead Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

Tekberry

Controls Engineer III

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$60 - $65/hr

Lead controls engineering activities from concept development through installation, startup, and commissioning * Design, develop, and deploy integrated automation and machine control systems * Define ...

Opportunity Group, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Rockford, MI · On-site

$80K - $125K/yr

Opportunities range from entry-level to Lead Controls and Engineering Manager roles. Most jobs require minimal travel. Responsibilities: * Provide electrical solutions for automation equipment.

DISHER

Senior Controls Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

Lead the design, implementation, and documentation of controls systems for various types of automated equipment * Mentor, coach, and train entry level Controls Engineers * Communicate with all ...

DISHER

Senior Controls Engineer

Zeeland, MI · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

Lead the design, implementation, and documentation of controls systems for various types of automated equipment * Mentor, coach, and train entry level Controls Engineers * Communicate with all ...

Select Source International

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PLC Controls Engineer II

Mason, OH · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Seeking an experienced PLC Controls Engineer II to lead automation projects for material handling systems. The role involves PLC programming, electrical controls design, commissioning, testing, and ...

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Lead Controls Engineer information

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$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 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 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,784 per year, or $59.5 per hour.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

INA Solution Inc

Athens, AL • On-site

$145K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

I came across your background and wanted to reach out regarding a Senior Controls Engineer opportunity with a leading manufacturer in Huntsville-Decatur AL Area.
What caught my attention about your profile is your experience in controls, automation, and manufacturing environments, which aligns closely with what the team is looking for.
Senior Controls Engineer
Huntsville-Decatur AL Area
Direct Hire/Fulltime
Work Scheduled 4-day work week (Monday–Thursday) with 3-day weekends, Full Relocation covered

A few reasons this opportunity stands out:

• Senior-level leadership position with direct influence on manufacturing operations
• Lead controls projects from design through commissioning
• Work with Siemens PLC, HMI, SCADA, Profinet, and Profibus technologies
• Drive automation, continuous improvement, and line optimization initiatives
• High visibility role partnering with Engineering, Maintenance, and Production leadership
• Opportunity to mentor engineers and technicians
• Support future assembly line launches and automation upgrades
• Stable automotive manufacturing environment


We're seeking someone with strong controls engineering experience, PLC programming expertise, and a background supporting automated manufacturing systems.
Based on your experience, I believe this could be a strong fit and would welcome the opportunity to discuss it further.
Would you be available for a brief conversation this week?