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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Denso

Electrical Controls Engineer 3

Maryville, TN · On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

PLC programming, controls circuit design, machine safety standards and component selection criteria ... senior management. * Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure * Ability to work ...

trane technologies

Sr Controls Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

$31.62 - $59.91/hr

Responsible for commissioning, programming, setting up graphics, communications link, end to end ... Typically requires at least 7 years of experience in HVAC/Controls. Technical School or formal ...

Trane Technologies plc

Sr Controls Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

$31.62 - $59.91/hr

Responsible for commissioning, programming, setting up graphics, communications link, end to end ... Typically requires at least 7 years of experience in HVAC/Controls. Technical School or formal ...

Bonnell Aluminum

Controls Technician - NIGHTS

Carthage, TN · On-site

$28 - $36.75/hr

As a Technical Services Controls Technician, reporting to the Senior Controls Technician, you will ... These control systems include but are but are not limited to programmable logic controllers (PLCs ...

Bonnell Aluminum

Controls Technician - NIGHTS

Carthage, TN · On-site

$28 - $36.75/hr

As a Technical Services Controls Technician, reporting to the Senior Controls Technician, you will ... These control systems include but are but are not limited to programmable logic controllers (PLCs ...

Bonnell Aluminum

Controls Technician - NIGHTS

Carthage, TN

$28 - $36.75/hr

As a Technical Services Controls Technician, reporting to the Senior Controls Technician, you will ... These control systems include but are but are not limited to programmable logic controllers (PLCs ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Control Engineer 2

Blountville, TN · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Control Engineers work in various applications including industrial controls, cybersecurity ... Assists senior engineers in preparation of Bids and Proposals cost estimates and supporting ...

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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 Aug 8, 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 is a senior controls engineer?

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?

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 the typical responsibilities of a senior controls engineer 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,126 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Electrical Controls Engineer 3

Denso

Maryville, TN • On-site

$96K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

DENSO rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

JOB SUMMARY:
Under limited supervision, designs, documents, fabricates, implements and troubleshoots controls for semi-automatic and automatic manufacturing equipment, with end goals of improving production safety, quality, capacity and/or lower costs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Designs safety and operational controls for new and existing equipment and troubleshoots any issues with these controls, referring complex issues to more experienced engineers when needed. 
  • Specifies components for use in equipment for controls systems. Documents control systems in drawings, schematics and spec sheets. 
  • Programs PLC controllers and documents PLC programs using ladder logic diagrams. 
  • Collaborates with Automation Engineering and Maintenance to verify that the design of all production equipment meets all regulatory and DENSO standards.
  • After consulting with Automation Engineering and Maintenance, creates equipment specifications based upon requirements for GUI/communication interfaces and networking requirements. 
  • Collaborates with production planning to schedule electrical work and equipment modifications and/or installation. 
  • Develops clear and concise operator instruction manuals. 
  • May train or mentor less experienced engineers. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or other related engineering field 
  • 5+ years as a Machine builder, Controls Engineer or related 
  • PLC programming experience with a focus on Allen Bradley and Studio 5000
  • Functional experience programming VFD's and Servo controllers.
  • Proficiency in creating detailed electrical and fluid schematics
  • Experience working in a manufacturing environment 
  • Strong background of system design, implementation, testing and maintenance
  • Experience with Functional Safety standards

SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

  • PLC programming, controls circuit design, machine safety standards and component selection criteria knowledge and experience required 
  • Analytical skills with an ability to independently evaluate and develop innovative solutions to complex situations 
  • Written and verbal communication skills and presentation skills. Ability to communicate with internal and external customers on issues of moderate to considerable importance, up to and including senior management. 
  • Demonstrates a high level of accuracy, even under pressure 
  • Ability to work within tight timeframes and meet strict deadlines 
  • Project management skills, including identifying and scheduling process steps, determining resources and staff required to successfully complete assigned projects or project steps and reporting on project  
  • Demonstrates a high commitment to quality 
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office products such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint  
  • Ability to apply process improvement planning and checking to own work output and to assist others with identifying gaps in work results 

Benefits Summary:
    Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Plans
     401K with 4% Company Match 
     Vacation/PTO and 13 Paid Holidays
     Bonus Program 
     FSA/HSA and Dependent Care Programs
     Company provided Life, Disability, ADD, and Business Travel Insurance
     Various No Cost Wellness & Chronic Condition Management Programs
     Various Optional Insurance Programs such as Legal, Identity Theft, Critical Illness, etc. 
     Tuition Reimbursement 
     Career Development and Ongoing Training 
     Employee Assistance Program 
     Employee Spotlight and Recognition Program
     Volunteer opportunities 
     Onsite Fitness Center (vary by location)
     Cafeteria and food markets (vary by location)
     Onsite Health Clinic and Pharmacy (vary by location) 
Candidates residing 50+ miles from the work location are eligible for relocation assistance. 
Annual Salary: $96,000 - $120,000
 

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