Engineers who design and optimise the systems that make robots move and react. A critical role in the robotics ecosystem, blending mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.
Controls Engineers are the architects of robotic movement and responsiveness. They design, develop, and optimise the control systems that enable robots to perform tasks with precision and efficiency. These engineers work across a range of industries, from manufacturing and automotive to healthcare and space exploration. They collaborate with mechanical and software engineers to ensure that robotic systems operate smoothly and reliably.
A typical week for a Controls Engineer is a mix of design, testing, and collaboration. They spend time both at the desk and in the lab.
Based on advertised midpoints across the 213 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.
% of 156 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.
A typical UK progression for controls engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.
Assist in the design and testing of control systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.
Take ownership of specific control system components, leading small projects and contributing to larger ones.
Lead the design and implementation of complex control systems, manage teams, and mentor junior engineers.
Oversee the entire control systems development process, drive innovation, and influence company-wide technical strategy.
There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.
Gain a strong foundation in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering through a relevant degree programme.
Secure an internship or entry-level position to gain practical experience and build a portfolio of projects.
Focus on control systems and robotics through specialised courses, certifications, and hands-on projects.
Advance to a mid-level role, taking on more responsibility and leading smaller projects.
Become a senior engineer, managing teams and leading the development of complex control systems.
Achieve the principal level, where you influence company strategy and drive innovation in control systems.
Wayve London
Develop, integrate and tune trajectory-generation and motion-control algorithms that turn AI Driver outputs into safe, smooth vehicle actuation across multiple platforms. Own production-quality, latency-sensitive C++ control software, using simulation, closed-loop evaluation and on-road testing to validate performance and safety.
Bennett & Game Recruitment Stourbridge £50,000 – £60,000 pa
Design, build, commission and support industrial automation systems for warehouse automation, conveyor and materials-handling projects. Hands-on work spans Siemens PLC programming (S7-1200/1500, TIA Portal), electrical control panels, sensors, motors and VFDs, plus fault-finding and customer-site commissioning. Also involves integrating PLC systems with higher-level software.
ReeVR Talent Warwick £10,000 pm
Hands-on role writing PLC software from first principles for bespoke machinery and automation projects, covering design, testing and commissioning. You'll program Siemens TIA Portal/S7 and/or Rockwell Studio 5000, configure VFDs, servo drives and motion systems, and work with Profinet, Profibus and EtherNet/IP. Involves customer-site commissioning with occasional overnight and weekend travel, alongside electrical and project engineering teams.
Meritus Telford £45,000 – £50,000 pa
MERITUS are recruiting for a Test & Controls Engineer to join our client in Telford that design bespoke systems solutions for industries such as Aerospace, Defence, FMCG and Agriculture.TEST & CONTROLS ENGINEER - Up to £50,000 per annum - Telford,...
Rise Technical Recruitment Yeovil £50,000 – £60,000 pa
Controls Engineer£50,000 - £60,000 + Technical Training + Days + Progression + Overtime + 6% Employer Pension + Life AssuranceYeovil (Commutable from: Sherborne, Crewkerne, Chard, Dorchester, Taunton, Bridport, Wincanton, Ilminster)Are you from an Electrical / Controls Engineering background looking for...
Rise Technical Recruitment Saltash £40,000 – £50,000 pa
Designs electrical and control systems for composite moulding processes, programming Siemens TIA Portal PLCs and producing drawings and specifications. Supports projects end-to-end from feasibility and BOMs through to build, commissioning and handover, and trains customer engineers in the UK and internationally. Based on-site within a close-knit team at a specialist manufacturer and consultancy.
Automation Experts Ltd Cinderford £45,000 – £55,000 pa
Hands-on role owning the control and safety systems behind automated machinery and production cells in a manufacturing environment. You'll design, program and commission Siemens TIA PLCs and motion systems, integrate ABB robots and functional safety systems, and deliver SCADA/HMI solutions with alarms and diagnostics. Working in a small, close-knit team, you'll lead automation projects from concept to handover and support production and maintenance teams on site.
Sierra 57 Consult Croydon £55,000 – £65,000 pa
Job Overview: Our client, a leading manufacturer of high-performance plastic and rubber extrusion lines are looking for a skilled Controls & Automation Engineer to join their team.Benefits:* Company vehicle* Laptop & phone* Medical insurance* Employer matched pension scheme* Significant career...
The locations with the most live listings for this role today.
Essential skills include a strong background in mathematics, programming, and system dynamics, as well as proficiency in control theory and simulation tools.
Industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and robotics research centres frequently hire Controls Engineers.
Controls Engineers often work in a mix of office and lab settings, collaborating with cross-functional teams and conducting hands-on testing.
Continuing education, gaining practical experience, and specialising in advanced control systems and robotics can help you advance your career.
Salary ranges vary based on experience and location. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.
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