1

Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Cookeville, TN · On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

ATC is looking to hire a mid-senior level Controls Engineer to create and support custom automation equipment. ATC Automation designs and builds custom automated assembly and test equipment for ...

Controls Engineer

Lexington, TN · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Job Summary a Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and implementation of ... more senior employees in the same area • Failure to achieve results requires allocation of ...

Industrial Controls Engineer - Contract DISHER is seeking an experienced Industrial Controls ... Works directly with senior members on sequence of operation and test execution. What will make you ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Applied Intelligence -Automation and Controls is currently recruiting for a Senior Electrical Control Engineer to join our team in Tennesee (near Jackson). This ...

GENERAL PURPOSE Facilitate new site construction, expansion, renovation, or equipment and facility design with expertise regarding process controls, electrical engineering, and related systems and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 17, 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 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:
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.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

ATC Automation

Cookeville, TN • On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

ATC is looking to hire a mid-senior level Controls Engineer to create and support custom automation equipment. ATC Automation designs and builds custom automated assembly and test equipment for various industries including transportation, life science, and consumer goods.

A Controls Engineer creates electrical and pneumatic schematics, analyzes prints, troubleshoots, and debugs electrical and pneumatic designs. Controls Engineers are also able to determine material and component specifications and write programs to operate machinery at a high level of proficiency. The ideal Controls Engineer candidate possesses PLCs (Allen Bradley, Siemens), HMIs, Robotics, Servos, Vision systems, and other sensors and actuators knowledge. At ATC you will work in a unique and dynamic team environment. Our team members desire to deliver exceptional projects within budget and schedule while ensuring customer satisfaction.

For more information, please visit our website at https://atcautomation.com/.

This is an onsite, full-time position with the opportunity of professional growth across our corporate organization. This position is located at our Cookeville, TN location and reports directly to the Business Unit Manager.

You can enjoy great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Life Insurance, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Account, and Paid Time Off. If you are passionate about driving automation solutions and eager to make a tangible impact, this is the perfect opportunity for you to showcase your talents.

Meet ATC Automation

Since 1977, ATC Automation has been redefining what's possible in custom automation. From concept to commissioning, we partner with leading brands across the globe to design and deliver custom machinery that drives efficiency, precision, and long-term performance. Our automation expertise spans critical industries that shape the way we live and move-Life Science, Transportation, Consumer Products, and General Industry.

How You'll Contribute

  • Knowledge of Rockwell- Allen Bradley, Siemens and Mitsubishi software.
  • Read and create pneumatic and electrical prints with working knowledge of AutoCAD Electrical. (schematics)
  • Develop and debug complex programs for industrial machinery processes
  • Excellent computer skills and a high level of proficiency in software to design ladder logic and machine controls. May also possess advanced programming skills in data base development and upper level interface.
  • Communicate with customers to determine machine performance criteria.
  • Knowledge of electrical and controls engineering theories and principles
  • Installation of completed automation systems
  • Travel and valid drivers license is required

Basic Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science or related degree in electrical engineering (preferred).
  • Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in the custom automation field.

Physical Demands:

  • Stand, walk, push, pull, reach overhead, and bend to floor.·
  • Exert 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally.·
  • Exert 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently.
  • Exert up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • VISUAL ACUITY: Near acuity with or without accommodation.·
  • HEARING Ability: Ability to monitor machine sounds to identify and diagnose.

Disclaimer:

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this position. This job description is subject to change but will remain in effect until superseded or canceled in writing by Human Resources.

ATC Automation is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected status as required by applicable law.

ATC Automation is the Automation segment of TASI Group. The TASI Group of Companies is comprised of four technologically advanced Strategic Business Segments commonly linked by a disciplined focus on Product Integrity, Package Integrity, and Automation. Each TASI company delivers world-class products and services, focusing on our global customer needs in diverse market segments. TASI has served several thousand global customers over the years and enjoys a very high rate of repeat customers, many of which are Blue Chip Global Companies. Major Markets include: Automotive, Medical Devices, Life Science, Pharmaceutical, Packaging, Oil & Gas, Food & Beverage, Consumer Goods and General Industrial Equipment.