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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Automation and Controls Specialist

Boston, MA · Hybrid

$90K - $119K/yr

Developing solutions for automation projects with senior level oversight and guidance. Programming ... controls and related systems designs. PLC and HMI experience required. Excellent communication ...

Automation and Controls Specialist

Boston, MA · On-site

$90K - $119K/yr

... with senior level oversight and guidance. • Programming, testing, and commissioning of SCADA ... instrumentation, controls and related systems designs. PLC and HMI experience required. • ...

Sr. Automation Control Engineer

Waltham, MA · On-site

$113K - $148K/yr

... hands-on Sr. Automation Control Engineer with strong manufacturing support experience, proven ... Conduct system reviews and drive mechanical and controls improvements. * Lead the design ...

Sr. Process Engineer, NPI

Burlington, MA · On-site

$113K - $146K/yr

Johnson Controls is global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings. Our mission is to ... What You'll Do As a Sr.Process Engineer, New Product Introduction , you will work on engineering ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Johnson Controls is global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings. Our mission is to ... Senior Manufacturing Engineer, Advanced Manufacturing, you will be responsible for defining and ...

Senior Solutions Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

About Johnson Controls Johnson Controls,a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical ... Senior Solutions Engineer located in Burlington, MA. This is a team of roll-up-your-sleeves ...

Sr. Manufacturing Engineer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Johnson Controls is global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings. Our mission is to ... What You'll Do As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, Advanced Manufacturing, you will be responsible ...

Showing results 41-60

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Boston, MA salary details

$78.2K

$124.6K

$167.3K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Boston, MA is $124,637.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,400.00 and $139,100.00 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Boston, MA? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,637 per year, or $59.9 per hour.

Automation and Controls Specialist

CDM Smith

Boston, MA • Hybrid

$90K - $119K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 446 rated engineering


Job description

Company Overview

Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!
Join Us! CDM Smith – where amazing career journeys unfold.
Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it’s a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.
Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.


Job Description
CDM Smith is seeking an experienced Automation and Controls Specialist to join a great team of motivated Automation professionals in our Northeast region! You will be responsible for designing and programming control systems for our Water/Wastewater clients. This role involves developing detailed specifications, creating Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and writing comprehensive control descriptions to ensure safe and efficient system operation. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic about building client relationships, mentoring junior level staff and delivering quality technical products on time and on budget. CDM Smith has been a leader in providing Automation design and programming services for over 30 years. Join us! As a key member of the Northeast Automation team, you will contribute to CDM Smith's mission by: Developing solutions for automation projects with senior level oversight and guidance. Programming, testing, and commissioning of SCADA systems which includes some, if not all of the following software: PLC packages (Rockwell Studio 5000 and Schneider Electric Unity), HMI packages (GE iFix, Rockwell FactoryTalk, and AVEVA InTouch for System Platform). Configuring SCADA servers, workstations, networks, and wireless communication systems (i.e. cellular, radio, Wi-Fi). Developing SCADA reports using Dream Reports, XL Reporter, or Hach WIMS. Performing field acceptance testing (FATs) and field inspections to ensure contractor conformance with contract requirements for control systems. Creating basic to moderately complex instrumentation and control system designs by developing Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), control system architectures, specifications, and control descriptions (for use in control system programming). Preparing control system preliminary design reports (PDRs). Reviewing basic to moderately complex level shop drawings consisting of control system components, instrumentation and panel wiring diagrams. Providing responses to contractor requests for information (RFIs) under limited supervision. Independently develops basic to highly complex Operations & Maintenance manuals for PLC and HMI programming. Preparing Automation specific project budgets and construction cost estimates. Preparing proposals and client presentations under senior supervision. Traveling to project sites for client meetings, supporting on-call/as-needed contracts, and start-up of control systems within the region. Performing other duties as required. #LI-LP2#LI-HYBRID
Skills & Abilities
Expert knowledge of instrumentation, controls and related systems designs. PLC and HMI experience required. Excellent communication skills - both oral and written. Strong knowledge of Microsoft office suite of programs. Working knowledge of Operational Technology (OT) cybersecurity solutions. Knowledge of 3D and 4D CAD drafting.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree. 7 years of related experience. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Water/Wastewater I&C projects. Experience within an Engineering and/or construction firm. Experience leading teams.
Amount of Travel Required
20% - 40%
Driving Requirements
An appropriate and valid driver's license is required.
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Pay Range Min
USD $115,253.00
Pay Range Max
USD $201,677.00
Additional Pay Range Information
CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available
No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.Qualifications: Bachelor's degree. 7 years of related experience. Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947