Salary report · US · 2026
Controls Engineer Salary
The average controls engineer salary is $88,752 per year in the United States in 2026. Base pay runs from $68,000 at the 10th percentile to $121,000 at the 90th, with a median of $89,000. Bonuses add $1,000–$11,000, putting total pay between roughly $66,000 and $124,000.
Definition & distribution
What is the average controls engineer salary?
The average base salary for a Controls Engineer is $88,752 per year. This figure represents a typical compensation level for professionals in this role as of 2026.
The 10th percentile earns $68,000, while the 90th percentile makes $121,000, indicating a significant range in earnings. The median salary of $89,000 suggests that half of the professionals earn less than this amount, while the other half earn more, reflecting a diverse market for this role.
Known limitations. The analysis is based on a sample size of 2,532 profiles, which provides a robust dataset but may not capture all variations in pay. Regional differences and specific industry sectors may also affect individual salaries.
Pay components
How is controls engineer total pay structured?
Compensation for Controls Engineers typically includes base salary and potential bonuses.
| Component | Low | High | Reading |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base salary | $68,000 | $121,000 | Dense around the $89k median |
| Annual bonus | $1,000 | $11,000 | Up to ~9% of top-end base |
| Total pay | $66,000 | $124,000 | Base plus reported bonus |
Pay by experience
How does experience change a controls engineer salary?
As with many engineering roles, pay for Controls Engineers generally increases with experience. More seasoned professionals often command higher salaries due to their expertise and contributions.
- 01
Entry-Level
Entry-level Controls Engineers can expect to earn around $66,000 per year, as they begin to develop their skills.
- 02
Mid-Level
Mid-level professionals typically earn about $89,000 per year, reflecting their growing expertise and responsibilities.
- 03
Senior-Level
Senior Controls Engineers can earn upwards of $121,000 per year, as they lead projects and mentor junior engineers.
Skills
Which skills affect a controls engineer salary?
Key skills play a significant role in determining salary levels.
- 01
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) — the premium tier
Expertise in PLCs can significantly enhance a Controls Engineer's earning potential.
- 02
Automation Controls — the premium tier
Proficiency in automation controls is highly sought after and can lead to higher salaries.
- 03
Engineering Design — the promotion tier
Strong engineering design skills can position a Controls Engineer for advancement into higher roles.
Geography
Where do controls engineers earn the most?
Several cities offer unique opportunities for Controls Engineers.
| Metro | Market character | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Rapids, MI | Manufacturing hub | Cost of living is lower, which may affect salary expectations. |
| Houston, TX | Energy sector leader | Higher salaries are common due to demand in the energy industry. |
| Chicago, IL | Big tech & finance | Salaries may be higher to match the cost of living. |
| Denver, CO | Growing tech scene | Competitive salaries reflect the rising demand for engineering talent. |
| Atlanta, GA | Diverse economy | Offers a balance of salary and cost of living. |
Check your pay
Where does your salary fall?
Check your salary percentile to see where you stand in the market.
Raising your pay
How can controls engineers increase their salary?
There are several ways to potentially increase your pay as a Controls Engineer.
- 01
Pursue advanced certifications
Obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your qualifications and lead to higher pay.
- 02
Gain specialized experience
Focusing on in-demand areas such as robotics or automation can boost earning potential.
- 03
Negotiate job offers
Effective negotiation can result in a more favorable salary package.
FAQ
Controls Engineer salary: FAQ
The highest reported salary for a Controls Engineer is $124,000.
The lowest reported salary for a Controls Engineer is $66,000.
You can increase your pay by pursuing advanced certifications, gaining specialized experience, and negotiating job offers.
Yes, bonuses can range from $1,000 to $11,000 depending on performance and company policies.
This data is based on a sample of 2,532 profiles, providing a robust overview of the market.
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