Controls Technician Jobs in Tennessee
Controls Technician jobs in Tennessee are in strong demand across the state's manufacturing, automotive, and food and beverage processing sectors, with openings available from entry-level trainees through senior automation specialists. The heaviest hiring concentrates in Nashville, Memphis, and Chattanooga, where established employers such as Bridgestone Americas, Nissan North America, and Eastman Chemical Company maintain significant operations. The most sought-after specialties in Tennessee right now are PLC programming, SCADA systems integration, and industrial instrumentation. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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The HVAC Controls Technician installs, maintains, and troubleshoots HVAC control systems (including pneumatics) that regulate temperature, airflow, and environmental conditions within facilities. This role focuses on the space thermostat or sensor through controllers and field devices to the associated air handling units and mechanical equipment. Responsibilities include maintaining and calibrating thermostats, sensors, dampers, valves, VFDs, and other control devices while verifying proper sequences of operation. The position works closely with Building Automation, HVAC technicians, and engineers to ensure reliable operation, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency.
Install, configure, test, and commission HVAC control components including pneumatics systems, controllers, thermostats, sensors, variable frequency drives, and research laboratory exhaust valves.
Monitor system performance, identify operational issues, review system trends, and implement adjustments to improve reliability, efficiency, and occupant comfort.
Coordinate the operation of building HVAC systems and lab exhaust while maintaining a safe working environment.
Operate multi-meters and voltage testers to assess electrical components and verify safe operation of HVAC control systems to include pneumatics.
Use diagnostic tools to troubleshoot communication or control issues between field devices and mechanical equipment.
Apply infrared thermography to identify temperature irregularities and potential problems in electrical or mechanical components.
Install, repair, and maintain control valves and devices associated with hydronic, steam, chilled water, heating water, and laboratory exhaust systems.
Monitor building systems through the Building Automation System (BAS) to identify irregularities, operational issues, or abnormalities.
Work with engineers and BAS teams to review building performance and support energy conservation efforts.
Required Qualifications
- Education
- High school diploma or GED
- Experience:
- Minimum of 4 years of experience with HVAC control systems, preferably in an institutional or large-scale facility setting.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
- Experience working with HVAC control systems including thermostats, sensors, control valves, dampers, and associated control devices.
- Ability to operate multimeters, voltage testers, and infrared thermography equipment to diagnose electrical and mechanical issues.
- Working knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and sequences of operation.
- Other Conditions:
- Valid Driver’s license
- Ability to wear a respirator and other assigned PPE
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.
- Work Location
- University of Tennessee – Knoxville, TN Campus
- This is an on-site position
Compensation and Benefits
- UT market range: MR09
About The College/Department/Division
UT Facilities Services is responsible for the care and keeping of more than 300 facilities and utilities systems in and around Knoxville. As the University of Tennessee Knoxville’s largest non-academic department, team members are responsible for facilities maintenance and repair, custodial needs, landscaping and lawncare, utility work, in-house and capital construction projects, facilities planning and design, environmental initiatives, pest control, campus event services, and facilities administration functions for both the flagship campus and the agricultural institute. The Facilities Services staff provides around-the-clock coverage to ensure students, staff, faculty, and fans have a consistent and positive experience every time they step foot on Rocky Top.
See All 31 Controls Technician Jobs in Tennessee
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Find Controls Technician JobsControls Technician Jobs by City in Tennessee
Where Tennessee roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Controls Technician Job Market in Tennessee
A snapshot from current Tennessee openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring


Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Staffing & Recruiting
- Energy
- Construction & Real Estate
What Tennessee Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in controls technician jobs across Tennessee.
- Associate degree or higher in industrial electronics, automation technology, or a related field
- Hands-on experience with PLC platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Mitsubishi
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and instrumentation diagrams
- Familiarity with SCADA systems and HMI configuration in a manufacturing environment
- Valid OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification preferred by Tennessee industrial employers
- Ability to work rotating shifts or on-call schedules common in continuous-process Tennessee facilities
Controls Technician Jobs in Tennessee: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a controls technician in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not require a state-issued license specific to controls technicians, so the typical path starts with an associate degree in industrial electronics, mechatronics, or automation technology from a Tennessee College of Applied Technology campus. From there, most employers expect hands-on PLC and instrumentation skills built through coursework, an apprenticeship, or a technical internship. Industry certifications such as the AAMVA-recognized NIMS Manufacturing Skills credential or an ISA Certified Control Systems Technician credential strengthen a candidate's profile significantly.
Which companies hire controls technicians in Tennessee?
Employers hiring controls technicians in Tennessee right now include Trane Technologies, CS3, and Jobot, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Tennessee's deep manufacturing base, particularly in automotive assembly, chemicals, and food processing, means consistent year-round demand from both large multinationals and regional plant operators.
Which Tennessee cities have the most controls technician jobs?
Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville account for the largest share of controls technician openings in Tennessee. Nashville's expanding advanced manufacturing corridor and corporate headquarters draw the most postings statewide, while Chattanooga's automotive cluster anchored by Volkswagen and its supplier network drives strong demand in the southeast, and Memphis supports steady openings through its logistics, food processing, and distribution operations.
Are there remote controls technician jobs in Tennessee?
Yes, but they're rare. Controls technician work is fundamentally hands-on, requiring technicians to be physically present to commission equipment, troubleshoot PLCs, and maintain instrumentation on the plant floor. About 0% of controls technician openings tied to Tennessee are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, and those positions typically involve remote monitoring, SCADA configuration, or project engineering support rather than field maintenance duties.
How can I get hired as a controls technician in Tennessee with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry point is completing a program at one of Tennessee's College of Applied Technology campuses, which offer industrial electronics and mechatronics certificates designed for direct employment. Large Tennessee manufacturers such as Eastman Chemical and Bridgestone run apprenticeship and technician-trainee programs that hire candidates without full work histories. Lateral moves from adjacent roles like maintenance mechanic, electrical helper, or production operator are also a proven path, especially when paired with PLC coursework or a NIMS credential.
Where can I find and apply to controls technician jobs in Tennessee?
You can find and apply to controls technician jobs in Tennessee on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers hiring across the state right now. Search the available roles, find the ones that fit your experience and preferred location, and apply directly to each one.
See All 31 Controls Technician Jobs in Tennessee
Find roles in Tennessee that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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