The role of a licensed controls engineer is critical in various industries, particularly in automation, manufacturing, and energy. As the demand for skilled professionals in control systems and automation technology continues to grow, understanding the salary expectations for a licensed controls engineer in 2025 becomes essential for both job seekers and employers. In this article, we will break down the salary range, factors that influence earnings, and trends shaping the industry.
Average Salary Range for Licensed Controls Engineers in 2025
In 2025, the average salary for a licensed controls engineer typically falls within a range depending on several factors, such as location, experience, education, and industry.
- Average Salary: The typical licensed controls engineer earns between $80,000 and $110,000 per year.
- Entry-Level Salary: A starting controls engineer can expect a salary in the range of $70,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on their qualifications.
- Experienced Engineers: With 5 to 10 years of experience, salaries can increase significantly, ranging from $90,000 to $120,000.
- Senior Engineers: Highly experienced engineers with over 10 years in the field can earn $120,000 to $150,000 or more, especially if they hold leadership or specialized roles.
These figures may vary based on geographic location, company size, and industry sector.
Factors Influencing Earnings
Several key factors influence a licensed controls engineer’s salary:
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Location:
- Salaries in urban areas or regions with high demand for engineering talent, such as Silicon Valley or major metropolitan areas, tend to be higher.
- Engineers working in regions with a heavy focus on manufacturing, such as the Midwest in the U.S., may see competitive salaries as well.
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Industry:
- Industries like aerospace, defense, and energy typically offer higher salaries due to the specialized knowledge and technology involved.
- Other sectors, such as general manufacturing or smaller companies, may offer salaries on the lower end of the spectrum.
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Company Size:
- Larger companies often have more robust compensation packages, including bonuses, profit sharing, and benefits, which can increase overall salary.
- Smaller companies or startups may offer lower base salaries but can compensate with equity or flexibility.
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Demand and Supply:
- As automation and control systems become integral to industries worldwide, the demand for controls engineers has grown, which often leads to higher wages.
- However, in areas where there is an oversupply of engineers, salaries may be lower.
Salary by Experience Level
The salary a licensed controls engineer can expect is strongly influenced by their level of experience:
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Entry-Level (0-3 years): Newly licensed engineers can expect to earn between $70,000 and $85,000 annually. During this period, engineers will typically focus on learning the ropes, working under supervision, and gaining hands-on experience in control systems, instrumentation, and automation.
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Mid-Level (4-7 years): As controls engineers accumulate experience and expertise, they become more valuable. Mid-level engineers often earn between $85,000 and $110,000, with increased responsibilities like project management, client interactions, and troubleshooting.
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Senior-Level (8+ years): Engineers with extensive experience are highly sought after and can command higher salaries. Senior engineers can earn between $110,000 and $150,000, and often work in leadership roles, oversee large projects, or specialize in high-tech industries.
Job Market Trends for Licensed Controls Engineers
The job market for licensed controls engineers in 2025 shows promising growth, driven by several trends:
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Rising Demand for Automation: As industries increasingly rely on automation to streamline production processes, the need for skilled engineers who can design, implement, and maintain control systems continues to rise.
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Sustainability and Green Energy: Engineers working in renewable energy sectors, such as solar or wind energy, are in high demand. These industries require advanced control systems to optimize energy production and distribution.
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Digital Transformation: The push towards Industry 4.0, which integrates IoT, AI, and machine learning into manufacturing, has led to greater demand for controls engineers with expertise in smart systems.
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Globalization and Expansion: As companies expand globally, they require engineers to design scalable and efficient systems for various locations, increasing the need for international expertise.
Education and Certifications Impacting Salary
To boost earning potential, licensed controls engineers should consider furthering their education and obtaining certifications. Here are some key education and certification pathways:
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Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical or Control Systems Engineering:
- A four-year degree in electrical engineering or a related field is the minimum requirement to become a licensed controls engineer.
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Master’s Degree:
- Engineers with a master’s degree in a specialized field such as automation or systems engineering may qualify for higher-paying positions, especially in niche industries like aerospace or energy.
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Certifications:
- Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST): Offered by the International Society of Automation (ISA), this certification is recognized globally and can significantly enhance an engineer’s resume.
- Certified Automation Professional (CAP): Another credential from ISA, CAP is particularly valuable for engineers looking to advance in the automation industry.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): Obtaining PMP certification can open up higher-paying roles involving project leadership, as it demonstrates the ability to manage large teams and budgets.
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Licensing:
- Holding a Professional Engineer (PE) license can increase job prospects and salary potential. The PE license demonstrates a high level of expertise and commitment to professional ethics.
Benefits and Job Outlook
Licensed controls engineers enjoy numerous benefits and a positive job outlook:
- Job Security: As industries continue to evolve towards automation and more advanced control systems, the demand for skilled engineers remains high.
- Career Growth: With experience and certifications, controls engineers can move into senior management positions or specialized roles in high-demand sectors.
- Competitive Benefits: Many companies offer comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Conclusion
In 2025, the salary for licensed controls engineers continues to reflect the growing importance of automation and control systems across various industries. With average salaries ranging from $80,000 to $110,000 annually, the earning potential increases significantly with experience, specialization, and certifications. The job market remains robust, and the need for skilled professionals is expected to keep rising, making this an attractive career choice for aspiring engineers.
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