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Optimal Control Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... optimal control, and similar techniques. • Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems. • Significant knowledge of design and implementation of trajectory design ...

Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques. Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems. Significant knowledge of design and ...

Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques. Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems. Significant knowledge of design and ...

Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques. Significant knowledge in the design and analysis of control systems. Significant knowledge of design and ...

The longitudinal MPC is reallocated to be the consumer of the lateral optimized speed trace. Iterative lateral & longitudinal control/planning: when lateral offset is large and cannot reduce due to ...

Apply linear, non-linear, and optimal control techniques across both embedded and industrial platforms * Develop and maintain control systems for automation and robotic products * Support testing ...

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Optimal Control information

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How much do optimal control jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for optimal control in the United States is $21.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Optimal Control, and how can these be addressed?

Professionals in Optimal Control often encounter challenges such as handling complex, high-dimensional systems, ensuring solutions remain computationally feasible, and balancing accuracy with real-time performance requirements. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including system engineers, software developers, and data scientists—is essential to develop effective models and algorithms. Staying updated with the latest optimization techniques and leveraging advanced computational tools can help address these challenges, and many organizations support ongoing training or conference participation for career growth.

What is the difference between Optimal Control vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectOptimal ControlControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsDegree in Control Engineering, Applied Mathematics, or related fields; often requires knowledge of optimization and algorithmsDegree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; focuses on designing and implementing control systems
Work EnvironmentResearch, algorithm development, mathematical modeling, often in academia or R&DDesign, testing, and deployment of control systems in manufacturing, automation, or robotics
Industry UsageUsed in aerospace, robotics, finance, and advanced automation for optimal decision-makingApplied across industries for real-time control of machinery and processes

Optimal Control focuses on developing mathematical algorithms to determine the best control strategies, often involving complex optimization techniques. Control Systems Engineers implement and maintain these control strategies in practical systems. While both roles require a strong background in control theory, Optimal Control emphasizes theoretical and algorithmic development, whereas Control Systems Engineering centers on practical application and system integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optimal Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as an Optimal Control Engineer, you need a strong background in control theory, applied mathematics, and engineering, often supported by a relevant degree such as electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering. Proficiency with tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and programming languages such as Python or C++, as well as familiarity with optimization algorithms, is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills for translating complex models into practical solutions. These skills are vital for designing and implementing efficient control systems that optimize performance and stability in real-world applications.

What is optimal control?

Optimal control is a branch of mathematics and engineering that focuses on finding a control policy for a dynamic system so that a specific objective, such as minimizing cost or maximizing performance, is achieved. It involves determining the best way to influence a system's behavior over time, typically through the use of differential equations and optimization techniques. Applications of optimal control can be found in areas like robotics, aerospace, economics, and process engineering.
More about Optimal Control jobs
What cities are hiring for Optimal Control jobs? Cities with the most Optimal Control job openings:
What states have the most Optimal Control jobs? States with the most job openings for Optimal Control jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optimal Control job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,201 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Control System Engineer

Control System Engineer

Naval Nuclear Laboratory

Niskayuna, NY • On-site

$94K - $148K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Working at the Naval Nuclear Laboratory we foster pride in belonging to an organization whose culture is made up of these core values: Trust, Empowerment, and Collaboration. Our company promotes a positive culture while ensuring the safety and reliability of our nation's naval nuclear reactors, and training the Sailors who operate those reactors in the U.S. Navy's submarines and aircraft carrier Fleets.

Looking for a lifetime career? Apply today! Job Description The Integrated Power System's unit within Submarine Programs is seeking a highly skilled control system engineer with expertise in designing, implementing, and optimizing control systems for complex dynamic systems that integrate coupled mechanical-electric-fluid dynamic disciplines.

This role requires strong foundations in control theory, modeling & simulation, and real?time implementation. The engineer will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design control strategies, validate performance, and support integration into hardware or embedded environments. The position requires a balance of theoretical knowledge, practical hands- on skills, and the ability to collaborate with engineers from diverse technical backgrounds.

The work location for this position is full-time at the Knolls site. Key Responsibilities Develop advanced feedback and feedforward control solutions using adaptive, nonlinear, robust, and optimal control methods for coupled mechanical-electric-fluid dynamic systems. Build and validate dynamic system models; performing system identification when required.

Lead the system integration of components such as actuators, sensors, and real-time processing for distributed control platforms. Conduct stability, performance, and robustness analyses using modern control techniques. Implement real?time control algorithms on embedded platforms, microcontrollers or DSPs.

Perform simulation, verification, and validation using MATLAB/Simulink or equivalent tools. Support hardware?in?the?loop testing, data acquisition, and tuning of controllers. Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, software, and systems engineering teams.

Troubleshoot system behavior and optimize control performance during integration and testing. Document models, design decisions, test results, and control strategies clearly and accurately. Required Combination of Knowledge and Skill Bachelors degree from an accredited college or university in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering and a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering and a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience; or Doctorate degree from an accredited college or university in electrical, mechanical or systems engineering and a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience.

Preferred Skills Academic background featuring a concentration, track, or elective sequence in control systems. Relevant experience with advanced control methods such as adaptive control (e.g., Filtered-X LMS), optimal control (LQR, MPC), robust control, or nonlinear control. Relevant experience with system modeling & simulation tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Simscape, or similar platforms.

Relevant experience with real?time control implementation on embedded systems using MATLAB/Simulink environments. Experience with HIL systems, digital twins, or real?time simulation platforms. Familiarity with optimization techniques and advanced estimation methods.

Background in robotics, electromechanical systems, power systems, propulsion, or automation. Knowledge of machine learning or reinforcement learning applied to control systems. Experience with data acquisition, sensor/actuator interfacing, and lab testing environments Compensation and Benefits Health, Dental, Vision & Voluntary Benefits Disability, Life & Accident Insurance 401(k) Savings program & Capital Accumulation Plan Personal & Medical Time Off Paid Parental Leave Flexible Work Schedules Tuition Assistance for Eligible Employees Student Debt Benefit Personal Time Off Sell Program Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Wellness Program Visit us online to view all NNL benefits!

Pay Range $94,800.00 - $148,200.00 annually Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Annual salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is operated for the U.S.

Department of Energy (DOE) by Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC (FMP), a wholly owned subsidiary of Fluor Corporation. Naval Nuclear Laboratory personnel are FMP employees who work at four DOE facilities: Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory, Kenneth A. Kesselring Site, and Naval Reactors Facility, and at the U.S.

Department of Defense-owned Nuclear Power Training Unit-Charleston. FMP employees also have an established presence at numerous shipyards and vendor locations. For nearly 70 years, the Naval Nuclear Laboratory has developed advanced nuclear propulsion technology, provided technical support, and trained world-class nuclear operators to ensure the safe and reliable operation of our nation's submarine and aircraft carrier Fleets.

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is a national asset solely dedicated to the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. We rely on the dedication and innovation of our nearly 8000 engineers, scientists, technicians, and support personnel. All candidates must be U.S.

citizens. Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter. FMP is a government contractor and maintains a drug free workplace and workforce.

All candidates must be able to pass a drug test in compliance with FMP company policy and 10 CFR 707. Marijuana is a Federal Schedule I controlled substance and illegal under Federal Law. Therefore, FMP is required to test for marijuana.

Fluor Marine Propulsion, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state, or local law.