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System Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

System Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Position Summary One of our clients is seeking a Controls Engineer to develop, maintain, troubleshoot, and continuously improve automation and control systems supporting critical industrial ...

Power System Controls Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Responsibilities include automation controls systems design, PLC/SCADA programming, simulation and testing, and start up commissioning. The Senior Control Systems Engineer also contributes to overall ...

The Senior Control Systems Engineer position oversees the development, execution and delivery of control system projects. Responsibilities include automation controls systems design, PLC/SCADA ...

The Senior Control Systems Engineer position oversees the development, execution and delivery of control system projects. Responsibilities include automation controls systems design, PLC/SCADA ...

Sr. Hydraulic System Controls Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Caterpillar's Earthmoving division is hiring a Sr. Hydraulic System Controls Engineer in Peoria, IL. Role Summary: As a Hydraulic System control Sr. engineer, you will support design, development ...

Controls Egnineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Will be responsible for leading the design, programming, and troubleshooting of electrical and hydraulic system controls for custom designed equipment . Salary/Benefits:. Pay is commensurate with ...

Controls Egnineer

Dayton, OH

$81K - $105K/yr

Will be responsible for leading the design, programming, and troubleshooting of electrical and hydraulic system controls for custom designed equipment . Salary/Benefits:. Pay is commensurate with ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Upwing Energy is developing and commercializing first-of-their-kind Subsurface Compressor Systems ... General Purpose of Job: The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$76K - $101K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Mchenry, IL · On-site

$78K - $105K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Seattle, WA · On-site

$91K - $121K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Lead Controls Engineer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$86K - $112K/yr

Upwing Energy is developing and commercializing first-of-their-kind Subsurface Compressor Systems ... General Purpose of Job: The ideal Controls Engineer is experienced in the design, build ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Bonifay, FL · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Houston, TX · On-site

$76K - $102K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Dallas, TX · On-site

$79K - $105K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Rockford, IL · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery ... Key Responsibilities Power System Controls & Communications * Design and support SCADA, substation ...

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Showing results 1-20

System Controls Engineer information

See salary details

$61K

$108.8K

$175.5K

How much do system controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for system controls engineer in the United States is $108,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a system controls engineer?

A System Controls Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains automated control systems used in manufacturing, energy, transportation, and other industries. They are responsible for integrating hardware and software solutions to ensure that complex systems operate efficiently and safely. Their work often involves programming controllers, troubleshooting electrical or mechanical issues, and optimizing processes for better performance. System Controls Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement solutions that meet specific operational requirements.

What are some common challenges system controls engineers face when integrating new automation technologies into existing systems?

System Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new automation technologies and legacy equipment, minimizing downtime during system upgrades, and maintaining system reliability throughout the integration process. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—including IT, operations, and maintenance—is crucial for troubleshooting issues and implementing solutions efficiently. Staying current with evolving industry standards and safety regulations also plays a key role in successful integration projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a system controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a System Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems theory, and automation, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial networks, and familiarity with tools like MATLAB or AutoCAD is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP). Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems critical to modern industrial operations.

What is the difference between System Controls Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectSystem Controls EngineerAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like CSCP or relatedBachelor's in Engineering or Computer Science, certifications like PLC or SCADA
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, process industriesManufacturing, robotics, software development environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, process industries, automation firmsManufacturers, tech companies, automation solution providers

System Controls Engineers focus on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, while Automation Engineers develop and implement automation solutions, often involving software and robotics. Both roles overlap in industry and credentials but differ in scope and daily tasks.

Are control system engineers in demand?

Control system engineers are in high demand due to the increasing need for automation and process optimization across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. They often require skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and control theory, with job growth driven by technological advancements and infrastructure upgrades.

What cities are hiring for System Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most System Controls Engineer job openings:

What states have the most System Controls Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for System Controls Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to System Controls Engineer jobs?

For System Controls Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various System Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,776 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

System Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI • On-site

W3Global Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

One of our clients is seeking a Controls Engineer to develop, maintain, troubleshoot, and continuously improve automation and control systems supporting critical industrial operations. This role is focused on maximizing uptime, reliability, throughput, and process efficiency through design, integration, troubleshooting, and optimization of automation technologies.

A key requirement for this position is direct hands-on experience with Emerson Ovation DCS hardware/software (mandatory). Candidates must have practical experience supporting, troubleshooting, configuring, maintaining, or upgrading Emerson Ovation systems in an industrial or process-control environment.


Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, implement, and support industrial automation control systems and equipment

  • Program, integrate, troubleshoot, and maintain Emerson Ovation DCS systems, along with PLC, HMI, and related control platforms

  • Diagnose and resolve automation, controls, and instrumentation issues to minimize downtime and improve reliability

  • Develop and troubleshoot ladder logic, control sequences, and process automation strategies

  • Review and create electrical panel layouts, wiring schematics, loop drawings, and bills of materials (BOMs)

  • Support hardware electrical systems including control panels, motors, variable frequency drives (VFDs), actuators, and field devices

  • Troubleshoot electrical systems up to 480VAC / 24VDC and support instrumentation signal loops (4-20mA, digital I/O, etc.)

  • Gather and analyze process data to identify operational improvements and increase system efficiency

  • Develop functional specifications, control narratives, project scopes, cost estimates, and implementation plans

  • Review construction / installation drawings and maintain system documentation, SOPs, and technical training manuals

  • Collaborate with internal engineering teams, plant operations, contractors, and vendors on automation initiatives

  • Train and support maintenance technicians and electricians on control systems operation and troubleshooting

  • Participate in FAT/SAT testing, commissioning, startup support, shutdown planning, and field troubleshooting

  • Travel as required for project support and site visits


Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or related technical field

  • 5+ years of controls / automation engineering experience in industrial, utility, or process-control environments

  • Direct hands-on Emerson Ovation DCS hardware/software experience (required / non-negotiable)

  • Experience with system configuration, troubleshooting, upgrades, maintenance, and support of Ovation control systems

  • Strong experience with PLC programming, HMI development, and industrial automation integration

  • Minimum 2+ years of hands-on PLC / controls troubleshooting experience

  • Experience troubleshooting electrical systems up to 480VAC and 24VDC controls

  • Hands-on troubleshooting of motors, VFDs, actuators, control valves, and related industrial equipment

  • Familiarity with pneumatic and hydraulic systems

  • Strong analytical, root-cause troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced plant / project environment

  • Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

  • Flexibility to support field work, commissioning, and travel as needed


Preferred Experience
  • Power generation, utilities, heavy industrial, water/wastewater, or process manufacturing background strongly preferred

  • Experience with instrumentation calibration (flow, pressure, level, temperature, vibration, etc.)

  • Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as OPC, Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus, or similar

  • Understanding of P&IDs, loop drawings, control network architecture, and process control documentation

  • Experience with system modernization / migration projects involving legacy DCS or PLC platforms

  • Exposure to conveyor systems, water treatment, wastewater treatment, or process utilities is a plus


Core Competencies
  • Emerson Ovation DCS Support & Troubleshooting

  • Industrial Automation & Controls Engineering

  • PLC / HMI / DCS Integration

  • Electrical Design & Troubleshooting

  • Instrumentation & Process Controls

  • Root Cause Analysis & Process Optimization

  • Project Execution & Technical Leadership

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration & Training


W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006