As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Control Systems Engineer I in the United States is $92,600 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $45.
However, a Control Systems Engineer I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Control Systems Engineer I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Control Systems Engineer I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Control Systems Engineer I | 0-2 years | $92,519 |
| Control Systems Engineer II | 2-4 years | $107,388 |
| Control Systems Engineer III | 4-7 years | $122,065 |
| Control Systems Engineer IV | 7+ years | $149,272 |
| Automation Engineer V | 7-10 years | $164,356 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Control Systems Engineer Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 6.27% |
| Schematic | 2.53% |
| Calibration | 2.04% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Analysis
|
$96,304 |
4%
|
|
Innovation
|
$96,304 |
4%
|
|
Problem Solving
|
$95,378 |
3%
|
|
Electrical Engineering
|
$95,378 |
3%
|
|
Project Management
|
$94,452 |
2%
|
Understanding how a Control Systems Engineer I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Control Systems Engineer I, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Control Systems Engineer II | $107,400 | 16% |
| Automation Controls Technologist | $113,500 | 23% |
Salaries for a Control Systems Engineer I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $75,326 in 2023 to around $74,320 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Control Systems Engineer I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $75,326 |
| 2024 | $74,893 |
| 2025 | $74,320 |
| 2026 |
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|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for Control Systems Engineer I and their salaries, click below for more details.
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Control systems engineering is a promising career choice, with a competitive salary range. The minimum salary starts at $77,800, while the mid-level salary is around $86,400, and experienced professionals can earn up to $96,400. This field is in high demand among both private and government employers, making it a stable and rewarding profession.
As a Control Systems Engineer, your salary ranges from $77,800 to $96,400, with a midpoint of $86,400. This reflects the competitive nature of the field and the demand for skilled professionals in control systems engineering.
While many engineering roles can offer high salaries, Control Systems Engineers typically earn between $77,800 and $96,400 annually, with a median salary of $86,400. Positions that pay $200k a year are often found in specialized fields or senior roles, such as Lead Engineer or Data Engineer, which may require advanced skills and experience.
While some engineering fields like Petroleum and Aerospace Engineering offer salaries exceeding $100,000, Control Systems Engineers earn a competitive range with a minimum salary of $77,800, a mid-salary of $86,400, and a maximum of $96,400. While not in the millions, these figures reflect a solid earning potential in the engineering sector.
Control Systems Engineers earn competitive salaries, with a minimum of $77,800, a mid-range of $86,400, and a maximum of $96,400. While some sources may report higher figures, these values reflect a solid earning potential in the field, indicating that control engineers can indeed make a good income.
Yes, control system engineers are in high demand due to the increasing reliance on automation and digital technologies. This surge has led to numerous career opportunities across various industries. Salaries for control system engineers typically range from $77,800 to $96,400, with a median salary of $86,400, reflecting the value of their expertise in today's job market.
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