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Lead Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Mastech Digital

Controls Engineer III

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$65/hr

Controls Engineer III Location: Charlotte, NC 28216 Duration: 12 months (Possible extension or ... You will lead the electrical and controls scope of assigned projects. Project focus will be ...

Integra

Controls Engineer

Houston, TX

$71K - $93K/yr

Advanced Controls & Automation Engineering ... Lead the design, development, and implementation of complex control systems, including PLC, SCADA ...

Spring Automation LLC

Controls Engineer II

Nashville, TN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Contribute to or lead controls engineering efforts on material handling projects * Develop, test, and troubleshoot PLC programs (primarily Rockwell Automation platforms) * Design and develop HMI and ...

Steele Solutions

Controls Engineer IV

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer IVs serve as the lead controls resource on major customer programs and strategic initiatives. Essential Duties and Responsibilities This list of duties and responsibilities is not ...

Steele Solutions

Controls Engineer IV

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Controls Engineer IVs serve as the lead controls resource on major customer programs and strategic initiatives. Essential Duties and Responsibilities This list of duties and responsibilities is not ...

NVENIA

Electrical Engineer/Controls Eng 2

Wood Dale, IL

$79K - $106K/yr

... as lead controls engineer on projects from concept to customer acceptance · Responsible for multiple projects at one time · Service Work, Travel required 10%. to 20% · Design UL,CE and CSA ...

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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.
Senior Controls Engineer

Senior Controls Engineer

DISHER

Zeeland, MI • On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Senior Controls Engineer - Zeeland, MI

DISHER is currently partnering with a leading custom automation company in search of a Senior Controls Engineer to join their team. This organization designs and builds complex automation systems across a variety of industries, supporting projects from concept through commissioning. This role will collaborate with mechanical and controls engineers, project management, and other team members to design controls systems per project specifications while mentoring and training entry level Controls Engineers. 

What it's like to work here:

The company offers a collaborative, team-oriented environment where engineers are involved throughout the full project lifecycle. The culture emphasizes ownership and hands-on problem solving, with strong opportunities for growth and development in a fast-paced, supportive setting. 

What you'll get to do:
  • 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 departments on project progress and status
  • Support quoting team by providing input on concepts, hours, and material cost
  • Ensure projects are completed within quoted scope of work, timing, and budget
  • Complete assigned tasks with minimal direct supervision
  • Ensure equipment design and program meet internal and external specifications
  • Coordinate machine de-bug, power up, and validation with project team members
  • Document and communicate machine changes and issues
What will make you successful:
  • Bachelor's Degree or equivalent technical experience
  • Proficient in AutoCAD, electrical and pneumatic design, Microsoft Office, and other program/design systems including HMI, PLC, and robots
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  •  Experience mentoring, coaching, and training staff
  • Work as part of a team or independently with direction from Controls Engineer Manager or Senior Lead Controls Engineer
  • Demonstrated skill in machine de-bug
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Effective customer service skills
  • Travel up to 20% may be required domestically and internationally
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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