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Senior Control Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thea Energy

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Thea Energy is seeking a Senior Control Systems Engineer to work on the design of the control system for the company's Eos integrated stellarator. This role will define the overall control system ...

Thermo Systems

$120K - $170K/yr

Thermo Systems is a global, full-service control systems integration partner, delivering world-class automation solutions in the Energy market. Our diverse leadership and dedicated engineering team ...

HDR

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Pennington, NJ · On-site

$168K - $174K/yr

HDR is looking for a Senior Control Systems Engineer to serve in a project leadership role in support of our national Control Systems practice which includes full-service capabilities. Our practice ...

HDR

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

$164K - $170K/yr

In the role of Senior Control Systems Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Perform complex assignments exercising judgment in evaluation, selection and modification of standard engineering techniques ...

HDR

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Billings, MT · On-site

$164K - $170K/yr

In the role of Senior Control Systems Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Perform complex assignments exercising judgment in evaluation, selection and modification of standard engineering techniques ...

HDR

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$161K - $167K/yr

In the role of Senior Control Systems Engineer , we'll count on you to: Planning and Design Roles: * Perform complex assignments exercising judgment in evaluation, selection and modification of ...

HDR

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Pennington, NJ · On-site

$168K - $174K/yr

HDR is looking for a Senior Control Systems Engineer to serve in a project leadership role in support of our national Control Systems practice which includes full-service capabilities. Our practice ...

HDR

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Columbus, OH · On-site

$161K - $167K/yr

In the role of Senior Control Systems Engineer , we'll count on you to: Planning and Design Roles: * Perform complex assignments exercising judgment in evaluation, selection and modification of ...

Thermo Systems

$166K - $172K/yr

Works on a variety of control system projects. Capable of leading several project related tasks and/or large, strategic projects simultaneously. Provides engineering support on projects led by others.

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior control systems engineer in the United States is $166,219.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $167,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior Control Systems Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or large-scale manufacturing. Such roles often involve leadership responsibilities, complex project management, and working with advanced control technologies and software tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Control Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Control Systems Engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in automation, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace, defense, or large manufacturing. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and specialization, with some engineers earning this level through bonuses and stock options.

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 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 expertise in programming languages like PLC, SCADA, or DCS, and often hold certifications such as Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST). Their role involves troubleshooting, system optimization, and ensuring safety and compliance standards are met.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior Control Systems Engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in automation, PLC programming, and industrial control environments. High salaries are often found in industries like aerospace, defense, and large manufacturing firms, particularly for those in senior or specialized roles.

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.
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Senior Control Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Control Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $166,219 per year, or $79.9 per hour.
Senior Control Systems Engineer

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Thea Energy

Kearny, NJ • On-site

$95K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

About Thea Energy:
Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.
Position Overview:
Thea Energy is seeking a Senior Control Systems Engineer to work on the design of the control system for the company's Eos integrated stellarator. This role will define the overall control system architecture, select core technologies, design platforms, and manage technical interfaces between all major control subsystems including plasma control, power supply control, cryogenic control, safety systems, and data acquisition.
As a senior technical engineer, this role will work closely with subsystem teams, vendors, and collaborators to ensure that the architecture meets real-time performance, reliability, scalability, and regulatory requirements. This role is pivotal in shaping the next-generation control infrastructure for one of the most innovative stellarator-based fusion pilot plants in development.
As part of a rapidly growing team, you'll be part of the organizational build-up of a leading fusion energy company. This role will have a high degree of autonomy and must be able to move quickly. The Thea Energy team is comprised of self-motivated, creative, and fun individuals with an excitement for solving complex problems.
Key Responsibility Areas:
  • Lead the definition of the Eos control system architecture (functional, physical, and communication layers).
  • Select core technologies for real-time control, SCADA, networking, timing, and data management.
  • Develop high-level system specifications, interface control documents (ICDs), and system block diagrams.
  • Oversee integration and coordination of control subsystems.
  • Ensure consistency across communication protocols (e.g. OPC UA, DDS, Modbus, EPICS).
  • Contribute to the selection of PLC/DCS platforms for safety- and mission-critical systems.
  • Work with the AI/ML and Plasma Control teams to integrate predictive control and digital twin functionality into the architecture.
  • Support development of conceptual and preliminary design packages, including architecture reviews and validation plans.
  • Collaborate with systems engineering to ensure alignment with the overall plant functional architecture and TRL maturity goals.

Ideal Experience & Skillsets:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Physics, or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in control system design for fusion energy, particle accelerators, large scientific facilities, or similar high-reliability environments.
  • Strong proficiency with EPICS or TANGO control frameworks, Simulink and MATLAB for system modeling and simulation, SysML/UML for system-level architecture and documentation, and OPC UA, DDS, TCP/IP, PTP/White Rabbit communication protocols.
  • Experience with high-speed data acquisition, real-time systems, and distributed control.
  • Knowledge of IEC 61508 / 61511 or other safety-related standards.
  • Familiarity with PLC platforms (e.g. Siemens, Beckhoff, Allen-Bradley).
  • Experience working in multi-disciplinary teams and managing technical vendors.
  • Hands-on experience with FPGA or embedded systems is a plus.
  • Previous experience in early-phase fusion device development is highly desirable.

Company Benefits:
  • Salary range $95,000-$160,000
  • Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
  • Employee equity stock options
  • 20 days PTO

Requirements:
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time.
  • Willingness to occasionally travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call.
  • Ability to work in a facility that contains industrial hazards including heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, high voltage, high current, pressure systems, and cryogenics.

It's not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world's hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran's status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.
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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About Thea Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Princeton, NJ, US

Year founded

2022

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