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Controls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Knightdale, NC

PLC Controls Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

PLC Controls Engineer - Contract Location: Durham, NC - Onsite Duration: 12-Month Contract Hours ... While PLC programming experience is required, the role does not heavily emphasize developing ...

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Electrical Engineer 3 - PLC Controls Engineer Job Id: 26-03927 Location: Durham, NC Duration: 12 ... Develop control algorithms and machine sequences using Structured Text (ST) programming.

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Intermediate Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Intermediate Controls Engineer - Hybrid - Raleigh, North Carolina We're seeking a full-time ... PLC programming and FactoryTalk View ME / SE for HMI and SCADA development. Send us your ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$94K - $124K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer We're seeking a full-time controls engineer to join our expanding team and ... PLC programming and FactoryTalk View ME / SE for HMI and SCADA development.

Senior Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$94K - $124K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer We're seeking a full-time controls engineer to join our expanding team and ... PLC programming and FactoryTalk View ME / SE for HMI and SCADA development. Send us your ...

Controls Engineer

Benson, NC · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

PLC Programming & Commissioning : Execute hands-on programming, debugging, and commissioning of ... Controls & IT : PLC code architecture, HMI screens, vision inspection programs, tag databases ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Benson, NC · On-site

$78K - $104K/yr

As the Senior Controls Engineer you will lead the controls and software integration for a massive 1 ... Safety PLC programming competence and ISO 13849 / IEC 62061 interlock design judgment with the ...

R&D Controls Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

You'll work at the intersection of laser physics, thermal control, CNC/PLC programming, and real ... If you have a solid controls or automation foundation and the self-motivation to learn new systems ...

Alternative/Hybrid Work Schedules General Description We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated controls engineer to join our Factory Automation and PLC Services Team. The ideal candidate will ...

Job Title: Entry Level- Traveling-Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer designs, commissions, and ... Proficiency in PLC programming and configuration. * Demonstrated ability to perform detailed ...

Job Title: Entry Level- Traveling-Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer designs, commissions, and ... Proficiency in PLC programming and configuration. * Demonstrated ability to perform detailed ...

Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$81K - $105K/yr

Develop and update PLC logic, HMI applications, and operator interfaces. Review customer ... Troubleshoot electrical, programming, communication, and equipment issues. Improve existing systems ...

Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls System Design: * Collaborate with control room operators, field personnel, engineers and ... Proficiency in PLC programming languages (e.g., ladder logic, structured text) and HMI/SCADA ...

Controls Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls System Design: * Collaborate with control room operators, field personnel, engineers and ... Proficiency in PLC programming languages (e.g., ladder logic, structured text) and HMI/SCADA ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

$93K - $123K/yr

... PLC code from punch-item fixes through commissioning and a share of live controls support. This is ... Lead hands-on programming, debugging, and commissioning of Siemens and Allen Bradley/Rockwell PLCs ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineer Plc Programming information

See Knightdale, NC salary details

$49.5K

$86.9K

$117.9K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer plc programming in Knightdale, NC is $86,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,200.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Knightdale, NC? For Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Knightdale, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Knightdale, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Knightdale, NC are:
What cities near Knightdale, NC are hiring for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs? Cities near Knightdale, NC with the most Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings in Knightdale, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,939 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

PLC Controls Engineer

Oxford Global Resources

Durham, NC • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Position Title:  PLC Controls Engineer - Contract

Location:  Durham, NC – Onsite

Duration:  12-Month Contract

Hours: 40 hours per week

2-Round Interview Process

Ideal Start Date:  08/03/2026

Background Check Required

 

Scope / What's Driving the Need:

Client is expanding its controls engineering team to support ongoing product development and sustainment initiatives. The team is implementing a new HMI platform and continuing to enhance Beckhoff-based automation systems used within finished products.  This role is geared toward a mid-to-senior-level Controls Engineer who has strong PLC experience and enjoys both software development and validation activities. The position is somewhat test-focused, with responsibilities that include generating test cases, executing verification activities, reviewing the work of other engineers, and supporting system-level troubleshooting. While PLC programming experience is required, the role does not heavily emphasize developing applications entirely from scratch, as the engineer will primarily be extending, testing, validating, and sustaining existing solutions.

The ideal candidate will have experience with Beckhoff TwinCAT PLC platforms; however, engineers with strong Rockwell or Siemens PLC backgrounds will also be considered.

Duties:

  • Develop, maintain, and extend PLC software for Beckhoff-based automation systems.
  • Support implementation and enhancements for new HMI functionality.
  • Generate, execute, and document PLC software test cases and verification activities.
  • Review test results, evaluate software performance, and validate system behavior against requirements.
  • Collaborate with Controls, Electrical, Systems, and cross-functional engineering teams throughout product development efforts.
  • Support troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and resolution of automation and controls-related issues.
  • Extend and sustain existing control systems used in production equipment.
  • Evaluate alternative control architectures and provide recommendations regarding technical trade-offs and design decisions.
  • Support system verification, validation, and qualification activities.
  • Analyze system behavior and performance issues within deployed products.
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to less experienced engineers.
  • Participate in design reviews and contribute to engineering process improvements.
  • Coordinate PLC-related activities with manufacturing, integration, and product development teams.
  • Document software, testing, and verification activities according to engineering standards.

Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • 5-12+ years of In-depth experience and strong technical expertise in control systems and PLC development.
  • Hands-on experience with Beckhoff PLCs and TwinCAT programming Highly Preferred (AB or Siemens will be considered, too)
  • Perform testing and verification of PLC functionality to ensure compliance with system requirements and expected behavior
  • Collaborate with Electrical Engineering on the design and development of electrical circuitry, electronic packaging, and system-level integrations
  • Working knowledge of the Product Development Process.
  • Experience supporting existing products and sustaining engineering activities.
  • Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with system-level testing, verification, and validation.
  • Exposure to event-driven or modular PLC architectures.
  • Experience supporting manufacturing, integration, or fielded automation systems.

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About Oxford Global Resources

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oxford Global Resources delivers tailored solutions for any technical challenges you face using our partnership-first approach. We specialize in workforce mobilization, digital transformation, and modern enterprise. We are committed to providing you with The Right Talent. Right Now. In 1984, we started Oxford with a handful of employees in a converted schoolhouse in Reading, Massachusetts. The people that shape our organization are some of the best in the industry. They are dedicated to making an impact and are with you every step of the way. We strive to meet the most pressing needs, solve the most complex problems, and go beyond expectations for our clients and our consultants. Together, we drive great outcomes. Whether you’d like to join the thousands of professionals who trust Oxford to advance their careers or partner with us to solve a challenge your business is facing, contact us at any of our 35 global offices.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Beverly, MA, US

Year founded

1984

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