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Controls Developer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Controls Engineer This Controls Engineer role focuses on the design, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting of complex industrial automation systems. You will work with ...

Controls Engineer, Senior

Bethlehem, PA

$95K - $126K/yr

The Mechatronics Controls Engineer, Senior will work closely with electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, product management, supply chain, and validation teams to implement controls designs ...

Controls Engineer, Senior

Bethlehem, PA · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

The Mechatronics Controls Engineer, Senior will work closely with electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, product management, supply chain, and validation teams to implement controls designs ...

Controls Engineer

Mcelhattan, PA · On-site

$76K - $98K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for our First Quality Products facility located in McElhattan, PA. This position is primarily responsible for specifying, designing, implementing, and ...

Controls Engineer

Reading, PA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer advances the controls and automation systems used in operations at Reading Truck Group by developing project scopes, designs, specifications, evaluation of alternatives, cost ...

Controls Engineer

Reading, PA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer advances the controls and automation systems used in operations at Reading Truck Group by developing project scopes, designs, specifications, evaluation of alternatives, cost ...

Controls Engineer

Bristol, PA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

The role of the Controls Engineer is to bridge the technical gaps of the salesmen throughout the entire process, from estimate through project completion. The Electrical Controls Engineer will be ...

Controls Engineer

Reading, PA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer advances the controls and automation systems used in operations at Reading Truck Group by developing project scopes, designs, specifications, evaluation of alternatives, cost ...

Controls Engineer

Meadville, PA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

We are now hiring a Controls Engineer, where you will receive generous pay and benefits in addition to locking up a stable career with advancement opportunities. Responsibilities and Duties * Review ...

Controls Engineer

Meadville, PA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

We are now hiring a Controls Engineer, where you will receive generous pay and benefits in addition to locking up a stable career with advancement opportunities. Responsibilities and Duties * Review ...

Controls Engineer

Meadville, PA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

We are now hiring a Controls Engineer, where you will receive generous pay and benefits in addition to locking up a stable career with advancement opportunities. Responsibilities and Duties * Review ...

Controls Engineer

York, PA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be part of a committed team of over 1500 professionals, and work in teams and directly with our clients doing ...

Controls Engineer

York, PA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be part of a committed team of over 1500 professionals, and work in teams and directly with our clients doing ...

Controls Engineer

York, PA

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer Who You'll Work With You will join one of our 45 offices in the US, be part of a committed team of over 1500 professionals, and work in teams and directly with our clients doing ...

Controls Engineer

Trexlertown, PA · On-site +1

$79K - $102K/yr

Controls Engineer * Bachelors Degree or Associates Degree required * 1-5+ years of experience * Must have a background with process automation * Programming PLC's for process automation systems

Showing results 21-40

Controls Developer information

What is a controls developer?

A Controls Developer is an engineer or software specialist who designs, develops, and implements control systems for machines, manufacturing processes, or automated equipment. They work with hardware and software to create systems that monitor and adjust variables like temperature, speed, or pressure to ensure optimal operation. Controls Developers typically use programming languages such as PLC programming, C, or Python, and may work closely with electrical and mechanical engineers. Their work is crucial for industries like manufacturing, automotive, and robotics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls developer?

To thrive as a Controls Developer, you need a strong background in control systems engineering, programming (such as PLC, HMI, or SCADA), and a relevant degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering. Familiarity with automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), industrial networking, and certifications like ISA CAP or related vendor credentials are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of automated processes critical to industrial and manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges controls developers face during the integration phase of a project?

Controls Developers often encounter challenges when integrating control systems with existing machinery or new equipment. Issues such as hardware-software compatibility, communication protocol mismatches, and unexpected system behaviors can arise. Effective troubleshooting, thorough documentation, and close collaboration with electrical engineers and machine operators are crucial for resolving these integration hurdles. Being proactive in testing and validation can help ensure seamless deployment and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Controls Developer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControls DeveloperAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonSimilar credentials; often holds engineering degrees and certifications in automation or control systems
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, or facilities with automation systemsManufacturing, process industries, or any environment involving automated processes
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, automation service providers, industrial facilitiesIndustrial companies, system integrators, and automation solution providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Controls Developers and Automation Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often collaborating on automation projects. While Controls Developers focus on designing and programming control systems, Automation Engineers may have a broader role including system integration and process optimization. Both roles are vital in industrial automation, with overlapping skills and industry usage.

Is controls engineering in high demand?

Controls engineering is in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, automation, and energy, as companies seek to improve efficiency and integrate advanced control systems. Professionals with skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and automation tools are particularly sought after, often leading to strong job growth and competitive salaries.

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Controls Developer jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Controls Developer job openings:

Controls Engineer

Exton, PA

Actalent
Business Management Consulting • 5 - 10K employees

$45 - $60/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Controls EngineerJob Description

This Controls Engineer role focuses on the design, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting of complex industrial automation systems. You will work with technologies such as collaborative robots, SCARA robots, Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMIs, servo drives, and custom machine interfaces. After onboarding, you will independently own controls projects, collaborating closely with mechanical designers and electrical engineers to develop machine sequences, write PLC code, and support full system integration. The position requires strong troubleshooting abilities, logical problem-solving skills, and the ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and troubleshoot PLC-based automation systems for industrial applications.
  • Program and modify PLC logic to support machine and robotic applications, ensuring reliable and safe operation.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical designers and electrical engineers to understand system functionality, requirements, and constraints.
  • Review and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams to support system design, debugging, and modification.
  • Develop detailed machine sequences and document operational logic for use in programming, commissioning, and maintenance.
  • Configure, develop, and support HMI applications to provide intuitive operator interfaces and system diagnostics.
  • Support commissioning, testing, debugging, and validation of automated machinery and control systems.
  • Troubleshoot controls, electrical, robotic, and automation issues to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
  • Assist with continuous improvement of controls standards, programming practices, and documentation.
  • Participate in customer demonstrations, factory acceptance tests (FATs), and system startup activities as required.
  • Work with sensors, actuators, and industrial control hardware to integrate and optimize system performance.
Essential Skills
  • Experience programming PLCs in an industrial automation environment.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
  • Proven experience troubleshooting automated machinery and control systems.
  • Solid understanding of machine sequencing and industrial automation concepts.
  • Strong logical problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
  • Hands-on experience working with sensors, actuators, and industrial control hardware.
  • Ability to work independently with limited supervision after onboarding.
  • 3–7+ years of controls engineering experience, with flexibility for candidates with stronger or unique technical backgrounds.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms (highly preferred).
  • Experience with Omron PLC platforms.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Industrial robotics experience, including collaborative robots (cobots) and SCARA robots.
  • Familiarity with industrial robot brands such as Fanuc, ABB, Yaskawa, Universal Robots, and similar platforms.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley HMI development.
  • Servo drive programming and integration experience.
  • Motion control experience in automated machinery or robotics applications.
  • Machine commissioning and startup experience in industrial environments.
  • Industrial networking experience for integrating and supporting connected automation systems.
  • C# programming experience for custom tools, utilities, or interfaces.
  • Experience using Visual Studio for software development.
  • Experience developing custom machine interfaces for specialized automation equipment.
  • Background in manufacturing or machine building environments.
Work Environment

This role operates in an industrial automation and machinery environment, working with PLC-based control systems, industrial robots, HMIs, servo drives, sensors, actuators, and custom machine interfaces. You will frequently collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineering teams, participate in commissioning and startup activities, and support factory acceptance tests and customer demonstrations. The work involves time on the shop floor and in test areas around automated machinery, as well as time at a workstation for programming, documentation, and troubleshooting. Standard industrial safety practices apply, including appropriate personal protective equipment when working around equipment.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Exton, PA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $60.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Exton,PA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

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