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Controls Developer Jobs in Allentown, PA (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Allentown, PA ยท On-site

$82K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer Industrial Automation Allentown, Pennsylvania Take Your Controls Career Beyond Programming If you're a Controls Engineer who wants more ownership, better projects, broader ...

As Director of Controls Engineering, you will be charged with leading all aspects of Oishii's controls function, responsible for designing, developing, commissioning, and overseeing controls ...

As Director of Controls Engineering, you will be charged with leading all aspects of Oishii's controls function, responsible for designing, developing, commissioning, and overseeing controls ...

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 ยท 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

Trexlertown, PA ยท 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

Avantor is seeking a Controls & IIoT Engineer to lead and support automation, integration, and digital transformation initiatives across manufacturing operations in a cGMP-regulated environment. This ...

Controls & IIoT Engineer

Phillipsburg, NJ ยท On-site

$97K - $156K/yr

Avantor is seeking a Controls & IIoT Engineer to lead and support automation, integration, and digital transformation initiatives across manufacturing operations in a cGMP-regulated environment. This ...

Controls & IIoT Engineer

Phillipsburg, NJ ยท On-site

$97K - $156K/yr

Avantor is seeking a Controls & IIoT Engineer to lead and support automation, integration, and digital transformation initiatives across manufacturing operations in a cGMP-regulated environment. This ...

Controls & Automation Engineer

Hatfield, PA ยท On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Controls & Automation Engineer Location: Onsite | Hatfield, PA Travel: Up to 10% to support other facilities About Clemens Food Group For more than 125 years, Clemens Food Group has been guided by a ...

Controls & Automation Engineer

Hatfield, PA ยท On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Controls & Automation EngineerAs a Controls & Automation Engineer at Clemens Food Group, you'll design, program, commission, and optimize the automation systems that keep our manufacturing operations ...

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Controls Developer information

See Allentown, PA salary details

$18

$33

$48

How much do controls developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls developer in Allentown, PA is $33.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Controls Engineer

Allentown, PA โ€ข On-site

Liberty Personnel, Inc
Recruiting and Staffing Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$82K - $107K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Controls Engineer Industrial Automation

Allentown, Pennsylvania


Take Your Controls Career Beyond Programming

If you're a Controls Engineer who wants more ownership, better projects, broader technology exposure, and a real path toward leadership, this is an opportunity worth exploring.


We're representing a highly respected, engineer-owned automation and controls firm that helps manufacturers solve complex automation challenges, improve production, increase efficiency, and stay competitive.


This isn't a position where you'll spend your career making minor PLC changes or working on one small piece of somebody else's project.


You'll have the opportunity to work across the entire automation project lifecycle understanding the customer's challenge, designing the solution, programming and configuring systems, testing, implementation, startup, and successful commissioning.


And when you're ready for more responsibility, there's somewhere to go.


Engineers within the organization have advanced into technical leadership, project management, sales engineering, engineering management, and senior leadership.


Why This Opportunity Stands Out
Own Projects From Beginning to End

You'll be given meaningful responsibility and the opportunity to see your engineering work through from concept to completion.


You'll collaborate directly with customers, project managers, subject-matter experts, and other engineers to develop solutions and successfully deliver automation projects.


Work With Advanced Automation Technology

Depending on the project, you'll gain exposure to technologies including:




  • PLC




  • HMI




  • SCADA




  • DCS




  • MES




  • Process control systems




  • Industrial automation networks




  • Manufacturing control systems




Rather than getting locked into one technology or one repetitive type of project, you'll continue expanding your technical capabilities.


Work on Real Manufacturing Challenges

Projects support sophisticated manufacturing environments across industries including:




  • Pharmaceutical




  • Chemical




  • Industrial gases




  • Discrete manufacturing




  • Process manufacturing




  • Advanced industrial operations




You'll have the opportunity to see your engineering work make an immediate impact on actual production operations.


Work for Engineers Not Just Executives

Here's something you don't find at every engineering company:


The organization is owned and managed by engineers who started their careers doing process control systems engineering themselves.


They understand the technical work because they've done it.


That engineering culture has also created a strong internal career path for people who want to grow beyond their current position.


What You'll Be Doing

As a Controls Engineer, you'll join project teams responsible for delivering complete industrial automation solutions.


Your responsibilities may include:




  • Designing, developing, and documenting control systems




  • Programming and configuring PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS, and/or MES applications




  • Translating customer requirements into practical automation solutions




  • Taking projects through the complete engineering lifecycle




  • Working directly with customers to solve technical challenges




  • Testing and validating automation systems




  • Traveling to customer facilities for implementation and testing




  • Supporting system startup and commissioning




  • Troubleshooting controls and automation issues




  • Coordinating with project managers and technical experts




  • Helping lead projects and ensure quality deliverables




  • Mentoring fellow engineers on controls concepts and project methodologies




What We're Looking For

We're interested in engineers who combine strong technical ability with the desire to take ownership of their work.


Ideally, you'll bring:




  • 3+ years of controls engineering or industrial automation experience




  • Experience configuring PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS, and/or MES systems




  • Understanding of process control or manufacturing processes




  • Experience successfully delivering automation projects




  • Ability to handle responsibilities throughout the complete project lifecycle




  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills




  • Strong written and verbal communication




  • Ability to explain complicated technical concepts to customers and colleagues




  • Willingness to travel to customer sites as projects require




  • Flexibility to occasionally work off-hours during critical project phases




  • Valid driver's license




A bachelor's degree or higher in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Bioengineering, or a related technical discipline is preferred.


PE, EIT, and relevant industry technology certifications are a plus.


Where Can This Position Take You?

This is much more than another Controls Engineer opening.


The company actively develops engineers and has established career paths into:


Technical Leadership Project Management Sales Engineering Engineering Management Senior Leadership


If you're technically strong and want increased responsibility, there is room to build a long-term career here.


Excellent Benefits

The company offers a comprehensive benefits package including:




  • Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance




  • 401(k) with employer match




  • Paid vacation




  • Paid sick time




  • Company holidays




  • FSA or HSA options with employer contribution depending on medical plan




  • Professional development opportunities




  • Career advancement opportunities




  • Strong promote-from-within culture




Build More Than Control Systems. Build Your Career.

If you've developed a solid foundation in controls engineering and you're ready for bigger challenges, greater project ownership, direct customer interaction, and a genuine opportunity to advance, this could be an excellent next move.


You'll solve complex automation problems for sophisticated manufacturing operations while joining an organization where engineers aren't simply part of the company.


They're the people leading it.


Send your resume to


Chuck LaBenski


Keywords

Controls Engineer, Automation Engineer, Control Systems Engineer, PLC Engineer, Process Controls Engineer, Industrial Automation Engineer, SCADA Engineer, DCS Engineer, PLC Programmer, HMI Programmer, MES Engineer, Control Systems, PLC, HMI, SCADA, DCS, MES, Process Automation, Industrial Controls, Manufacturing Automation, System Integration, Commissioning, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Siemens, Electrical Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Automation Systems, Process Control, Allentown PA, Lehigh Valley, Bethlehem PA, Easton PA