What is the difference between a control engineer and a systems engineer?

1 Control engineering

Control engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on creating and implementing feedback mechanisms that regulate the behavior and performance of systems. Control engineers use mathematical models, algorithms, sensors, actuators, and software to design and tune controllers that can adjust the system's output according to the desired input or setpoint. Control engineering can be applied to a variety of domains, such as robotics, aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, biomedical, and energy.

2 Systems engineering

Systems engineering is a discipline that deals with the development, integration, and management of complex systems that involve multiple components, stakeholders, and objectives. Systems engineers use a holistic approach that considers the system's life cycle, requirements, functions, interfaces, risks, and trade-offs. Systems engineering can span across different domains, such as software, hardware, logistics, security, and human factors.

3 Skills and tools

Both control engineers and systems engineers need to have strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, as well as a solid background in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. However, they also have some specific skills and tools that differ depending on their role. Control engineers typically need to master control theory, dynamic systems, signal processing, simulation, and programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C++. Systems engineers often need to master systems thinking, requirements engineering, modeling, testing, and tools such as SysML, UML, or DOORS.

4 Projects and industries

Control engineers and systems engineers can work on different types of projects and industries, depending on their interests and expertise. Control engineers usually work on projects that involve designing, implementing, and testing controllers for specific systems or subsystems, such as robots, drones, cars, or machines. They can work in industries such as robotics, aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, biomedical, or energy. Systems engineers usually work on projects that involve defining, coordinating, and overseeing the development of complex systems or system-of-systems, such as software platforms, networks, satellites, or defense systems. They can work in industries such as software, hardware, telecommunications, defense, or transportation.

5 Pros and cons

Both control engineering and systems engineering offer rewarding and challenging career opportunities for those who enjoy working with complex systems. However, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each before choosing your path. Control engineering has several benefits, such as allowing you to apply your creativity and technical skills, exposing you to a variety of domains and technologies, and offering a high demand and salary for qualified professionals. On the other hand, it can be difficult and time-consuming to model, simulate, and test controllers for nonlinear systems, require a high level of mathematical and programming skills, and limit your involvement in the overall system development. Systems engineering has advantages such as using your systems thinking and communication skills to manage complex systems, exposing you to a wide range of stakeholders and objectives, and offering a high demand and salary for skilled professionals. However, it can be stressful and demanding to deal with the complexity of systems engineering problems, require a high level of domain knowledge, and limit your depth in specific technical areas.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?