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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Generac

Senior Controls Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site +1

$115K - $155K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer serves as the technical lead for advanced microgrid control system projects within the Generac Microgrid Controls Team. This role owns projects endtoend-from sales ...

LAPORTE L.C.C.

Senior Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN

$94K - $124K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer We're seeking a full-time controls engineer to join our expanding team and contribute to the design, programming, and management of automation projects in the pharmaceutical ...

LAPORTE L.C.C.

Senior Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$94K - $124K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer We're seeking a full-time controls engineer to join our expanding team and contribute to the design, programming, and management of automation projects in the pharmaceutical ...

Daniels Health

Senior Controls Engineer

Memphis, TN · Hybrid

$125K - $141K/yr

Daniels Health is seeking an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to join our growing US engineering team and help design, build, and optimize the next generation of automated medical waste ...

NORTH WIND SYSTEMS LLC

Sr. Controls Engineer

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

... Sr. Controls Engineer Responsible for design, implementation, test, and support of electrical equipment, wiring, control equipment and data acquisition systems used in wind tunnel and hypersonic ...

EOSYS Group

Senior Controls Engineer

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

The Senior Control Systems Engineer position oversees and performs the design, programming ... in industrial controls and system integration with a strong focus on software design and ...

The EOSYS Group, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Smyrna, TN · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

The Senior Control Systems Engineer position oversees and performs the design, programming ... in industrial controls and system integration with a strong focus on software design and ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$65.3K

$104.1K

$139.8K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Tennessee is $104,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,000.00 and $116,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Controls Engineers?

Senior Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, or automation equipment. They are responsible for programming controllers (such as PLCs), troubleshooting control system issues, and ensuring optimal system performance and safety. Senior Controls Engineers often lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with other departments to integrate new technologies. Their expertise is crucial for streamlining production, reducing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Senior Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectSenior Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience, possibly certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, troubleshooting, project leadership in industrial or manufacturing settingsImplementing control systems, programming, testing, and maintenance in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control companiesSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles within the same sectors

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. Senior Controls Engineers typically lead projects, design complex systems, and mentor junior staff, while Controls Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the senior role involves more leadership and advanced technical skills.

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

To thrive as a Senior Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and several years of experience in industrial automation. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and excellent communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the effective design, implementation, and troubleshooting of complex control systems, which are critical for operational safety, efficiency, and project success.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities a Senior Controls Engineer can expect to handle in a manufacturing environment?

As a Senior Controls Engineer in a manufacturing setting, you can expect to lead the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automation systems such as PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA. Your responsibilities often include overseeing control system upgrades, optimizing equipment for efficiency, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. You will regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, production, and IT—to implement solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives. Managing complex projects and mentoring junior engineers are also common aspects of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Tennessee? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in TN? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,126 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Sr. Controls Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Nashville, TN

$60 - $80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Job Overview
This position is a 1+ Year contract for a Senior Controls Engineer. In this position you will be collaborating with engineers in the automation industry, working on cutting-edge robotics and technology. This role offers diverse experiences that will enhance your skills and challenge your abilities. This position offers the opportunity to travel to customer sites locally and domestically up to 35%.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the design and implementation of advanced control systems, including robotics, vision systems, SCADA applications, and high-level programming for automated equipment.
  • Manage projects to meet cost, quality, timing, and customer satisfaction goals.
  • Identify and implement design and workflow improvements.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues with robot controllers, ladder logic, electrical devices, and mechanical systems.
  • Conduct machine power-up, debugging, and programming.
  • Ensure equipment meets specifications using standard techniques.

Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, OR Associate’s degree with 2+ years of experience.
  • 5+ years of relevant experience in automation or controls engineering.
  • Proficiency working with PLCs, HMIs, robotics, mechatronics, motion control, vision systems, and programming.
  • Experience with CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical).
  • Ability to Travel up to 35% to customer sites and other locations.

Pay: $60-80/hr (Depending on experience)