what is a controls engineer?
A Controls Engineer is a technical expert responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining control systems that optimize industrial and manufacturing processes. These professionals work with automation technologies, such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and industrial robotics, to improve efficiency, safety, and productivity in various industries.
Controls Engineers play a crucial role in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors, ensuring smooth operations by integrating advanced control solutions into production systems. Their work involves troubleshooting existing systems, enhancing automation strategies, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
view jobsaverage controls engineer salary
According to recent industry reports, the average salary for a Controls Engineer in the United States is approximately $85,000 per year, with entry-level professionals earning around $65,000 annually. Highly experienced engineers with specialized expertise can command salaries of $110,000 or more.
what affects the salary of a controls engineer?
- Experience: Engineers with several years of hands-on experience in automation and control systems earn higher salaries.
- Industry & Specialization: Working in high-demand sectors, such as aerospace or robotics, can increase earnings.
- Geographic Location: Salaries are generally higher in cities with strong industrial and technological hubs, such as Houston, Detroit, and San Francisco.
- Certifications & Education: Holding certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) or ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) can enhance job opportunities and salary potential.
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access our tooltypes of controls engineers
Controls Engineers can specialize in different areas depending on their expertise and industry focus. Some common types include:
- PLC Programmer: Specializes in programming and configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to automate industrial processes.
- HMI Designer: Focuses on designing Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) that enable operators to interact with control systems efficiently.
- Automation Engineer: Works on automating entire manufacturing processes, integrating control systems with robotics and advanced software solutions.
- Industrial Network Engineer: Develops and maintains secure communication networks for industrial automation and control systems.
- Robotics Engineer: Specializes in the design, programming, and maintenance of robotic systems for manufacturing automation.
working as a controls engineer
If designing and optimizing control systems for industrial processes interests you, the role of a controls engineer might be for you. This role requires a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of industrial automation. Let's explore together the key responsibilities and the professional context in which a controls engineer operates.
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what does a controls engineer do?
As a controls engineer, your daily tasks may include:
- Designing Control Systems: creating detailed plans for control systems using programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and other automation technologies.
- Implementing Control Systems: working with multidisciplinary teams to integrate and implement control systems into existing industrial processes.
- Troubleshooting and Maintenance: identifying and resolving issues in control systems, conducting regular maintenance, and recommending upgrades to improve system performance.
- Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: ensuring that control systems comply with safety and regulatory standards in the industrial sector.
- Collaborating with Multidisciplinary Teams: working closely with professionals from various fields, including electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and IT, to ensure seamless integration of control systems.
- Continuous Learning and Adaptation: staying updated on emerging technologies and industry trends in industrial automation to incorporate the latest advancements into control system designs.
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work environment of a controls engineer
Controls Engineers typically work in industrial and manufacturing environments, including factories, production plants, and energy facilities. Some may work in office settings when designing and programming control systems.
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who are your colleagues?
Controls Engineers collaborate with various professionals to ensure efficient industrial operations. They work alongside Electrical Engineers, who handle circuit design and power distribution, and Mechanical Engineers, who focus on integrating machines into production processes. Additionally, they coordinate with IT Specialists, responsible for managing industrial networks and cybersecurity, as well as Production Managers, who oversee manufacturing operations to maintain efficiency and productivity.
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controls engineer work schedule
- Most Controls Engineers work full-time (40-hour weeks), with occasional overtime during system upgrades or troubleshooting emergencies.
- Some roles may require on-call availability to address unexpected system failures.
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career opportunities as a controls engineer
A Controls Engineer has several career advancement opportunities. With experience, professionals can progress into roles such as:
- Automation Engineer: Overseeing large-scale automation projects.
- Controls Systems Architect: Designing high-level control strategies for complex industrial processes.
- Project Manager: Leading teams in implementing automation solutions.
- Industrial Robotics Engineer: Specializing in robotic automation and AI-driven systems.
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advantages of finding a controls engineer job through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
controls engineer skills and education
To become a Controls Engineer, candidates typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related field. Many employers also prefer hands-on experience in industrial automation.
competencies and characteristics of a controls engineer
- Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and industrial robotics.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to analyze and troubleshoot control system issues.
- Communication & Teamwork: Working with engineers, technicians, and production staff.
- Knowledge of Safety Standards: Familiarity with OSHA, NFPA, and IEC regulations for industrial safety.
- Continuous Learning: Staying updated with new automation technologies and AI-driven manufacturing trends.
faqs about controls engineer jobs
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of a controls engineer.
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how to become a controls engineer?
Controls Engineers are in demand in manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy, pharmaceuticals, and industrial robotics.
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what does a controls engineer do?
They frequently work with PLC programming software (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), SCADA systems, AutoCAD, and industrial network tools.
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how much do controls engineers earn?
The average salary for a Controls Engineer in the United States ranges from $65,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry specialization. Entry-level salaries start around $65,000, while experienced professionals in high-demand sectors can earn over $110,000 annually.
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do controls engineers use specific software or tools?
Yes, controls engineers often use a variety of software tools for PLC programming, HMI design, and other aspects of control systems engineering. Proficiency in these tools is important for designing and implementing efficient control systems.
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how to succeed as a controls engineer?
To succeed as a controls engineer, it is essential to have a bachelor's degree, obtain relevant professional certifications, gain practical experience in industrial automation roles, develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and stay updated on the latest technologies and trends in industrial automation.
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how do i apply for a controls engineer job?
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