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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

SST Direct

Senior Controls Specialist

Columbia, SC · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Senior Controls Specialist Location: Columbia, South Carolina Employment Type: Full-Time Schedule ... This role is responsible for leading the design, programming, integration, commissioning, and ...

Goken

Automation Controls Engineer

Lexington, SC · On-site

$71K - $94K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering * 3 years of industrial electrical design experience in ... Senior Management * The ability to work independently, and to lead, coach and mentor others

Kimley-Horn

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Kimley-Horn is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with 8+ years of experience to join the ... Proven design experience with comfort and HVAC systems and related controls * Proven design ...

Kimley-Horn

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Overview Kimley-Horn is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with 8+ years of experience to join ... Proven design experience with comfort and HVAC systems and related controls * Proven design ...

Kimley-Horn

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Columbia, SC

$96K - $127K/yr

Overview Kimley-Horn is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with 8+ years of experience to join ... Proven design experience with comfort and HVAC systems and related controls * Proven design ...

Kimley-Horn

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Overview Kimley-Horn is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer with 8+ years of experience to join ... Proven design experience with comfort and HVAC systems and related controls * Proven design ...

Trane Limited

Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$89.58 - $124.95/hr

As Senior Manufacturing Engineer, you will develop, coordinate, and implement sustainable ... Design manufacturing flow lines, workstation layouts, and station controls that optimize efficiency ...

CEI

Senior End User Platform Engineer

Columbia, SC

$55 - $60/hr

Senior End User Platform Engineer Pay: $55-$60/hour Schedule: Columbia, SC Hybrid (Onsite Tuesday ... Firewalls, certificates, access controls, and TLS Preferred Skills * Citrix modernization and cloud ...

AVANTech, LLC

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Columbia, SC · Hybrid

$96K - $127K/yr

Who You Are The Senior Mechanical Engineer provides technical leadership in the design, analysis ... Support implementation of engineering controls necessary to meet customer, regulatory, and ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$66.6K

$106.1K

$142.5K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Columbia, SC is $106,136.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,700.00 and $118,400.00 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 Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC 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 $106,136 per year, or $51 per hour.

Senior Controls Specialist

SST Direct

Columbia, SC • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Senior Controls Specialist

Location: Columbia, South Carolina

Employment Type: Full-Time

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Pay: $90,000 – $125,000 per year

Travel: Local travel around Columbia with occasional statewide travel (up to 2 hours)

About the Opportunity

Superior Skilled Trades is partnered with a leading building automation and controls company specializing in the design, installation, integration, and optimization of advanced Building Automation Systems (BAS). This organization supports commercial, industrial, and institutional clients by delivering innovative automation solutions that improve building efficiency, reliability, and occupant comfort.

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Senior Controls Specialist to join the team in Columbia, SC. This role is responsible for leading the design, programming, integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting of complex building automation systems.

The ideal candidate will have extensive BAS experience with platforms including NIAGARA Framework, JCI Metasys, and Distech Controls, along with strong knowledge of HVAC controls, system networking, and building system integrations. This position will serve as a technical leader, mentor junior team members, and provide expert-level support to clients and project teams.

Key Responsibilities
  • Design, program, integrate, and configure Building Automation Systems using Niagara Framework, JCI Metasys, and Distech Controls
  • Lead BAS projects from initial design through installation, commissioning, and final optimization
  • Perform advanced troubleshooting of control systems, hardware, software, networks, and integrations
  • Commission and test automation systems to ensure proper functionality and performance
  • Optimize building systems for energy efficiency, reliability, and occupant comfort
  • Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to junior controls specialists
  • Collaborate with engineers, contractors, vendors, and clients to meet project requirements
  • Support integration of HVAC controls, lighting controls, access systems, and other building technologies
  • Develop and maintain system documentation including schematics, wiring diagrams, programming records, and commissioning reports
  • Provide onsite and remote technical support during installation, startup, and post-project phases
  • Maintain strong client relationships through effective communication and technical expertise
Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in Building Automation Systems (BAS)
  • Hands-on experience with Niagara Framework, JCI Metasys, and/or Distech Controls
  • Strong understanding of BAS protocols including BACnet, Modbus, and LonWorks
  • Proven experience with BAS programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting
  • Advanced knowledge of HVAC control systems and building automation technologies
  • Experience working with controllers, sensors, actuators, and IP-based networks
  • Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, schematics, and wiring diagrams
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with project teams
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally to project sites
Preferred Qualifications
  • Niagara Framework certification
  • JCI Metasys certification
  • Distech Controls certification
  • Experience with energy management or building efficiency solutions
  • LEED or Energy Management certification
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
Benefits
  • Competitive salary: $90,000–$125,000 annually based on experience
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement benefits
  • Monday–Friday schedule with consistent daytime hours
  • Local travel with limited overnight requirements
  • Opportunities for professional development and continued technical training
  • Opportunity to work on advanced building automation projects
  • Long-term career growth within the controls and automation industry
Work Environment
  • Field-based role supporting commercial, industrial, and institutional facilities
  • Combination of office, onsite commissioning, and troubleshooting responsibilities
  • Hands-on work with advanced BAS technologies and control systems
  • Collaborative environment working alongside engineers, contractors, technicians, and clients
  • Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for project deadlines or system troubleshooting
INDH
 

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