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Controls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Hackettstown, NJ

... PLC programming; experience with high-level languages such as python, etc. * Experience interfacing software with hardware systems (e.g., DAQ systems, embedded systems, industrial controls, etc.

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You will interface heavily with our Design Engineers, Project Managers, Vendors and Customers to ... , HVAC controls and low-voltage control wiring. Duties: * Document Analysis: Review and analyze ...

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Controls Engineer Plc Programming information

See Hackettstown, NJ salary details

$56.8K

$99.8K

$135.4K

How much do controls engineer plc programming jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer plc programming in Hackettstown, NJ is $99,789.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,300.00 and $111,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming do?

A Controls Engineer with expertise in PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated control systems used in manufacturing and industrial environments. They program PLCs to monitor and control machinery, ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. This role often involves troubleshooting system issues, integrating new automation technologies, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes.

What are the typical challenges faced when working as a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming?

Controls Engineers specializing in PLC programming often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automation systems under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components. They may also need to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production staff, to implement solutions efficiently. Staying updated on industry standards and maintaining strong documentation practices are essential for long-term project success and career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer in PLC programming, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and industrial control systems, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), HMI/SCADA systems, and programming languages like ladder logic is essential, and certifications like Siemens Certified Programmer or Rockwell Automation credentials are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you design, troubleshoot, and collaborate on complex automation projects. These skills ensure reliable, safe, and efficient system operation, which is critical for manufacturing productivity and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer Plc Programming vs Controls Engineer Electrical Design?

AspectControls Engineer Plc ProgrammingControls Engineer Electrical Design
Primary FocusDeveloping and implementing PLC control programsDesigning electrical systems and control panels
Skills & CertificationsPLC programming, ladder logic, automation softwareElectrical schematics, CAD, electrical codes
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilitiesEngineering offices, manufacturing sites
Industry UsageAutomation, process controlElectrical system design, machinery

Controls Engineer Plc Programming primarily focuses on creating and troubleshooting PLC control software, while Controls Engineer Electrical Design emphasizes designing electrical systems and schematics. Both roles require technical skills in electrical systems, but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Hackettstown, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Hackettstown, NJ are:

What cities near Hackettstown, NJ are hiring for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs?

Cities near Hackettstown, NJ with the most Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings in Hackettstown, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,789 per year, or $48 per hour.

Principal Manufacturing Automation Engineer

AbbVie

Branchburg, NJ • On-site

$109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


AbbVie rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Description
About AbbVie
AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
Job Description
The Principal Automation Engineer will be responsible for identifying and developing automation technologies and Manufacturing control systems to improve site productivity and quality and safety performance. The Principal Automation Engineer will be the technical lead for automation development and the site Subject Matter Expert (SME) for new and existing Manufacturing control systems.
Responsibilities
• Identify opportunities for automation improvements to Manufacturing productivity, quality, and EHS (environmental, health, and safety), including technology options, vendor identification, and project business cases.
• Develops moderate to complex control configuration or programming in accordance with design documents to meet functional requirements.
• Acts as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Automation Applications, leading the design and deployment of automated visual systems, aggregation, and other track and trace systems on packaging and manufacturing lines.
• Lead and support site digitalization, AI, robotics and Factory of the Future initiatives.
• Integrates vision inspection technologies (cameras, lighting, optics) with track and trace hardware (printers, scanners) to form a cohesive quality and identification system.
• Ensures seamless data flow and integration from vision and track-and-trace systems to control systems (PLCs, printers, scanners) and enterprise-level software (ERP or MES).
• Leads the development and execution of OT Systems lifecycle deliverables, including validation activities and associated documentation like System Functional and Design Specifications.
• Implements tools for OT Systems administration and maintenance, such as operating system (OS) and antivirus updates, user account management, and critical data backup.
• Establishes project management techniques to monitor, report on, and control automation projects according to size and criticality (medium to large projects). Supports capital projects when automation expertise is required.
• Conforms to EHS management system requirements and compliance obligations, promotes continuous improvement, and considers EHS aspects during the design and change process.
• Diagnoses and troubleshoots OT System hardware, software, and networking issues, replace defective components as needed. Responsible for implementing and validating OT systems upgrades and data migrations for DCS, PLC's, SCADA, and Data Historian systems.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field is required.
  • Minimum 10 years experience developing and maintaining automation software and equipment and PLC systems in a manufacturing environment; AI and machine learning experience, including experience with new technology development for new product introductions.
  • Direct experience with system development and validation, including development of system specifications (DS, FS, URS) and risk-based validation strategies, and validation protocol development and execution.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for automated systems in the pharmaceutical or medical device industries.
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills and innovative thinking to develop and implement untested solutions.
  • Ability to provide technical program leadership, including external vendor management and lead cross-functional team including internal and external resources.

Preferred:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering is Highly Desired
  • (10) years of experience with Automation Equipment specifically in SCADA and PLC programming in ladder logic and instructional texts is Highly Desired
  • Experience with HMI graphics development and management is Highly Desired
  • Experience with commissioning and qualification activities, including computerized systems validation Highly Desired
  • Experience administering and/or configuring a data historian system is Highly Desired
  • Direct experience with common machine vision platforms (e.g., Cognex, Keyence, Omron, etc). Solid understanding imaging principles, including lighting, optics and camera technology is Highly Desired.
  • Experience with serialization and aggregation systems. Knowledge of various marking technologies, including 1D/2D barcodes, QR codes and RFID Highly Desired.
  • Experience with robotics by implementing, and supporting advanced control systems, machine vision, and track-and-trace solutions Highly Desired
  • Experience in pharmaceutical and biotechnology or medical device manufacturing processes, including operational best practices and regulatory expectations Highly Desired.

Additional Information
Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law:
  • The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of thisposting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location,and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.
  • We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.
  • This job is eligible to participate in our long-term incentive programs.

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission,incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless anduntil paid and may be modified at the Company's sole and absolute discretion, consistent with applicable law.
AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.
US & Puerto Rico only - to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html
US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more:
https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html

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About AbbVie

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas: immunology, oncology, neuroscience, eye care, virology, women's health, and gastroenterology, in addition to products and services across its Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

North Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2013