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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

idexcel

Senior Systems Engineer

Knoxville, TN

$99K - $136K/yr

Senior Systems Engineer 810 Innovation Dr, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA 37932 10 months Contract to ... Knowledge and experience with electrical instrumentation and controls design, including developing ...

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All JobsSenior Controls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$62.5K

$99.5K

$133.6K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Oak Ridge, TN is $99,534.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,200.00 and $111,100.00 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 job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Sr. Controls Technician

Sr. Controls Technician

Hoffman & Hoffman Inc

Knoxville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

JOB PURPOSE: The Sr. Controls Technician is responsible for the start-up and commissioning of PLC and DDC based controls systems by following commissioning procedures and guidelines.

Sr. Controls Technician Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • ORGANIZES COMMISSIONING OF DDC and or PLC based PROJECTS by accepting projects from project management; analyzing commissioning workload timelines; understanding project requirements, sequence of operation, programming, and system type; conferring and collaborating with other members of the engineering and programming team.
  • ENSURES PROPER SYSTEM OPERABILITY by assisting in an onsite performance verification (“Big Picture Checkout”) with the HBT engineer to verify the system is functioning as it was designed.
  • DIRECTS ELECTRICAL SUBCONTRACTORS by prioritizing areas of completion; answering questions to assure proper installation; enforcing proper installation methods verifying proper installation.
  • MAINTAINS PROJECT DOCUMENTATION by updating wiring diagrams, sequence changes, and check-out documentation; maintaining current program and graphical displays; maintaining project commissioning sheets; collaborating with Project Managers and Programmers to assure that current documentation is accurately and promptly transmitted from the field.
  • COMPLETES COMMISSIONING OF DDC and or PLC based PROJECTS by organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling start-up activities; coordinating with programming for needed modifications and corrections for programming and Displays; organizing turnover to Project Manager for project close-out; following up on work results.
  • COMMUNICATES PROJECT INFORMATION by updating Project Managers and Construction Coordinator as to construction progress; updating any project deadline information; advising as to any changes in schedule or change orders; logging daily work in a project manual or work diary.
  • ACHIEVES FINANCIAL OBJECTIVES by cooperating with the Ops management team in reviewing monthly job labor cost reports as needed; initiating corrective actions as directed.
  • MAINTAINS INDUSTRY TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE by attending approved educational workshops; reviewing industry publications; reviewing Dealer Intranets; maintaining knowledge of proper electrical and mechanical installation methods; reviewing product specifications and catalogs on project material.
  • CONTRIBUTES TO TEAM EFFORT by leading by example; initiating an open and positive attitude; preparing for and attending training meetings; assisting in the training of new employees; sharing technical information with associates; accomplishing related results as needed.
  • WILLINGNESS AND ABILITY TO TRAVEL by Cooperating and understanding the importance of high-profile customers with locations in multiple regions and recognizing a sense of urgency with those needs.


Sr. Controls Technician Requirements:

  • 5+ years of controls experience.
  • 5+years of BACnet controls experience.
  • Proficient with Alerton, Distech, Delta, Niagara, or Tridium programming.

Preferred Skills and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of HVAC Control Theory & Applications
  • Proficient with Allen Bradley Studio 5000 or Siemens TIA Portal
  • Inductive Automation Ignition Core or Gold certification
  • Experience with electronics and basic electrical circuits
  • Strong troubleshooting skills
  • Computer hardware and software skills including
  • Ability to work independently and unsupervised
  • Strong communication and interactive skills
  • Technical Military training

No Phone Calls or Drop-Ins Please.

EEO Employer/Vets/Disabled