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Senior Control Systems Engineer Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Control Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$134K - $188K/yr

Systems Engineering, Fluids Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Software Development, and Software Verification. We build and validate engineering simulations of fluids subsystems to verify ...

New

Senior Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Location: Gravitics - Seattle WA, Colorado, (with future travel/support to ... Develop and maintain system specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), CONOPS ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Location: Gravitics - Seattle WA, Colorado, (with future travel/support to ... Develop and maintain system specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), CONOPS ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer Location: Gravitics - Seattle WA, Colorado, (with future travel/support to ... Develop and maintain system specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), CONOPS ...

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Create and manage system artifacts such as Concepts of Operations (ConOps), Interface Control ... Senior Engineer Level 3: $125,000 - $145,000 * Senior Engineer Level 4: $145,000 - $175,000 In ...

Create and manage system artifacts such as Concepts of Operations (ConOps), Interface Control ... Senior Engineer Level 3: $125,000 - $145,000 * Senior Engineer Level 4: $145,000 - $175,000 In ...

Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Create and manage system artifacts such as Concepts of Operations (ConOps), Interface Control ... Senior Engineer Level 3: $125,000 - $145,000 * Senior Engineer Level 4: $145,000 - $175,000 In ...

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Senior Control Systems Engineer information

See Tacoma, WA salary details

$105.2K

$185.8K

How much do senior control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior control systems engineer in Tacoma, WA is $178,507.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $179,300.00 and $185,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior control systems engineer do?

A Senior Control Systems Engineer designs, develops, and oversees the implementation of automated control systems in various industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. They are responsible for improving system efficiency, reliability, and safety by creating control algorithms, selecting hardware, and integrating software solutions. Senior engineers often lead teams, mentor junior staff, and collaborate with other departments to ensure successful project delivery. Their expertise is crucial in troubleshooting complex system issues and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior control systems engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Control Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical or control engineering, advanced knowledge of automation, and experience with process control systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and PE license. Expertise in PLC/DCS programming, SCADA systems, and familiarity with industry standards like ISA or IEC is essential. Strong analytical skills, leadership, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of complex industrial automation systems.

What are some common challenges faced by senior control systems engineers when working on large-scale automation projects?

Senior Control Systems Engineers often face challenges such as integrating new technologies with legacy systems, ensuring system reliability under varying operational conditions, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. Managing project timelines while troubleshooting complex automation issues requires strong technical knowledge and effective communication. Additionally, adapting to evolving industry standards and regulations is essential to ensure system compliance and safety.

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

AspectSenior Control Systems EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, certifications like CSCP or ISABachelor's in Engineering, some certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and troubleshooting of control systems in industrial settingsAssist in control system design and implementation, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, oil & gas, power plants, automation firmsSimilar industries, often entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Control Systems Engineer and a Control Systems Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and expertise. Senior engineers typically lead projects, make complex decisions, and mentor junior staff, while control engineers focus on supporting design and implementation tasks. Both roles require relevant technical skills and industry experience, but seniority involves greater responsibility and leadership within control systems projects.

How much does a senior control systems engineer make?

A senior control systems engineer typically earns between $90,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often have specialized skills in automation, PLC programming, and control system design, which can influence salary levels.

What is a senior control systems engineer?

A senior control systems engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They typically have advanced knowledge of control theory, programming languages like PLC or SCADA, and may hold certifications such as Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST). Their role involves troubleshooting, system optimization, and ensuring safety and compliance standards are met.

What are popular job titles related to Senior Control Systems Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA?

For Senior Control Systems Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Control Systems Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Control Systems Engineer jobs in Tacoma, WA are:

What cities near Tacoma, WA are hiring for Senior Control Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Tacoma, WA with the most Senior Control Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Control Systems Engineer job openings in Tacoma, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $178,507 per year, or $85.8 per hour.

Control Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA • On-site


Blue Origin
Space Research Administration • 1 - 5K employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$134K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Application close date:

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role supports the development and operations of New Glenn, a single-configuration, heavy-lift orbital launch vehicle capable of routinely carrying people and payloads to low-Earth orbit, geostationary transfer orbit, cislunar, and beyond. Its first stage is fully reusable, and the vehicle was designed from the beginning to be human-capable.

As part of a hardworking and complementary team of engineers, you will develop and verify inner-loop flight control applications for New Glenn launch vehicle systems. Together, we will positively contribute to all aspects of developing and verifying control software applications. Our team serves in several traditionally distinct roles: Systems Engineering, Fluids Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, Software Development, and Software Verification. We build and validate engineering simulations of fluids subsystems to verify that control algorithms and software satisfy requirements. Successful team members demonstrate excellent engineering judgment and an ability to work independently with minimal direction and supervision.

We are looking for engineers to apply their technical expertise, leadership skills, and dedication to quality to positively advance safe human spaceflight. Passion for our mission and vision is required and is a key indicator of a successful candidate!

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Model-based design and control software development for multiple simultaneous New Glenn configurations

  • Collaborate across New Glenn Autonomy with fluids, systems engineering, software integration, avionics and vehicle operation teams

  • ConductMonte Carlo simulationsand covariance analysis for system performance characterization

  • SupportHardware-in-the-Loop (HIL)andSoftware-in-the-Loop (SIL)testing

  • Deliver software for vehicle testing and flight

  • Support bench tests, integrated vehicle tests and flight operations including basic operator training

Minimum Qualifications

  • Strong engineering fundamentals; particularly in fluid mechanics, modeling and model validation.

  • Deep understanding of fundamental controls engineering, such as frequency response analysis, stability margins

  • Experience with filtering, state estimation (Kalman filters, extended Kalman filters) and optimal control techniques (LQR, LQG)

  • High proficiency in Simulink and MATLAB for modeling, simulation, control design, and automatic code generation.

  • Practical experience in software development, including embedded C or C++ programming.

  • Proficiency with software configuration management tools such as git, subversion.

  • Excellent technical writing and verbal communication skills.

  • B.S. (or M.S. or Ph.D.) in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering with 5+ years of real project experience.

  • Ability to support 40-50-hour work weeks with occasionally higher effort as required to meet schedule.

  • Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and strengthen our culture of inclusion.

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Substantial experience and success developing controls for real systems.

  • Hands-on experience with high-pressure gas and cryogenic propellant systems.

  • Deep knowledge of systems engineering for safety-critical systems.

  • Experience with rockets, missiles, or other aerospace vehicle systems.


Base Pay Range for:

WA applicants is $134,961.00 - $188,945.40

Other site ranges may differ


Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.


Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S.as a refugee or granted asylum.


Background Check

  • Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
  • Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing, vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
  • Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

  • Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
  • Stock Options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
  • Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays.
  • Dependent on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on the company's intent to reward individual contributions and enable them to share in the company's results, or other factors at the company's sole discretion. Bonus amounts and eligibility are not guaranteed and subject to change and cancellation. Please check with your recruiter for more details.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Blue Origin is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified and dedicated work force. Blue Origin hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Blue Origin will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act, the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles Fair Chance in Hiring Ordinance, and other applicable laws. For more information on "Know Your Rights," please see here.


Affirmative Action and Disability Accommodation

Applicants wishing to receive information on Blue Origin's Affirmative Action Plans, or applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in the application and/or interview process, please contact us atEEOCompliance@blueorigin.com. Please note this is a publicly managed inbox. Please do not include any personal medical information in your request.



Blue Origin logo

About Blue Origin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blue Origin is a private aerospace manufacturing and suborbital spaceflight services company based in Kent, Washington, USA. Established in 2000 by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, the company operates in the cutting-edge aerospace industry aiming to build a future where millions of people can live and work in space. They develop a variety of technologies, with a focus on reusable rocket systems which significantly reduce the cost of space travel. Blue Origin's core mission is to make this vision come to life by incrementally building on its successes with an ultimate vision of dramatic cost reduction and increased reliance on reusable spacecraft.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kent, WA, US

Year founded

2000


What Blue Origin employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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