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Sr 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

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

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 ...

Sr. Engineer, Controls & PLC

Springfield, TN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Join Our Team as a Sr. Engineer, Controls & PLC at Johnson Electric! Location: Springfield, TN (100% onsite) Vacancy Type: Existing Position Schedule: Full-Time Relocation: Relocation Assistance ...

Controls Engineer

Maryville, TN · On-site

$50 - $60/hr

Controls Engineer - Must be a Citizen to be eligible for this role. The Controls Engineer is ... APPLY TODAY! Taylor Brantley Sr. Recruiter will follow up with additional details! Job Type ...

Sr. Engineer, Controls & PLC

Springfield, TN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Join Our Team as a Sr. Engineer, Controls & PLC at Johnson Electric! Location: Springfield, TN (100% onsite) Vacancy Type: Existing Position Schedule: Full-Time Relocation: Relocation Assistance ...

Sr. Engineer, Controls

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Supports engineering and maintenance in the development of standards and specifications, including a complete purchase parts list related to controls systems. * Provides technical support for ...

Sr. Engineer, Controls

Spring Hill, TN · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

Supports engineering and maintenance in the development of standards and specifications, including a complete purchase parts list related to controls systems. * Provides technical support for ...

$70 - $90/hr

Delivers quality controls engineering work with growing independence under the guidance of a Discipline Lead or senior team member. * Performs well in front of clients and in demanding on‑site ...

Be Seen First

Controls Engineer - Manufacturing, Building Products Plant located 120 miles South of Nashville ... The position reports to the Sr Manager of Engineering and Maintenance and will partner with ...

Be Seen First

Work closely with Senior controls engineer and system control needs * Knowledgeable of industrial control components and assist with MRO crib * Guide design, develop and test electrical control ...

Showing results 21-40

Sr Controls Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$65.3K

$104.1K

$139.8K

How much do sr controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr 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 Sr Controls Engineer?

Sr Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems used in manufacturing, automation, or other industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure machinery operates efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming PLCs, troubleshooting system issues, leading projects, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Senior-level controls engineers also mentor junior staff and contribute to the strategic improvement of automation processes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sr Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems design, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant industry experience. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE is essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These qualifications ensure effective system integration, reliable automation solutions, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

What types of projects and cross-functional collaboration can a Sr Controls Engineer expect in this role?

As a Sr Controls Engineer, you will typically lead or contribute to projects involving the design, implementation, and optimization of automation systems. Collaboration is common with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical and electrical engineers, software developers, and operations personnel, to ensure seamless integration of control systems. You may also work closely with project managers and clients to define requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver solutions that align with production goals. This role often involves balancing technical problem-solving with strong communication skills to coordinate across departments.

What is the difference between Sr Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectSr Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related engineering; often 5+ years experience; certifications like PLC or automation certificationsBachelor's in relevant engineering; 1-3 years experience; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation projectsSimilar industrial settings, project-based work, automation systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control industriesManufacturing, industrial automation, equipment design

The main difference between a Sr Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience level, responsibilities, and expertise. Sr Controls Engineers typically have more years of experience, handle complex automation projects, and may mentor junior staff. Controls Engineers are often earlier in their careers, focusing on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles are vital in industrial automation and share similar work environments and industry applications.

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Sr Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Sr Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Sr Controls Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,126 per year, or $50.1 per hour.

Controls Engineer

ATC Automation

Cookeville, TN • On-site

$71K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 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 .
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.