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Controls Engineer Jobs in State College, PA (NOW HIRING)

TRC Talent Solutions

Controls Engineer

Beech Creek, PA

$80K - $103K/yr

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to serve as the technical authority for manufacturing processes, equipment, automation strategy, and process optimization. This role will lead ...

eZone Staffing LLC

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Protection & Controls Technician

Pennsylvania Furnace, PA · On-site

$40 - $55/hr

* High School Diploma or equivalent. * 1-5 years of experience in electric utility Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Protection & Controls or substation field work. * Experience working in utility ...

New

System One Holdings, LLC

Quality Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Conduct process capability studies and establish quality controls. * Collaborate with Process Engineering to reduce defects * Work with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and reduce quality ...

System One

Quality Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Conduct process capability studies and establish quality controls. * Collaborate with Process Engineering to reduce defects * Work with Maintenance to improve equipment reliability and reduce quality ...

System One

Sr. Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

System One

Sr. Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

System One

Sr. Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

System One

Senior Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Senior Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000.00 - $140 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

System One

Sr. Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

System One

Sr. Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

System One

Sr. Process Engineer

Huntingdon, PA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Job Title: Sr. Process Engineer Location: Huntingdon, PA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $110,000 ... Analyze manufacturing data, conduct process capability studies, and establish process controls.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in State College, PA

Controls Engineer information

See State College, PA salary details

$53.8K

$94.4K

$128.1K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in State College, PA is $94,449.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,700.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a controls engineer do?

A Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation. Controls Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize existing systems, implement upgrades, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Their expertise is crucial for improving productivity, reducing downtime, and integrating new technologies into production environments.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems critical to industrial and manufacturing environments.

What are common challenges faced by controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design standards, timelines, and communication styles. They must ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with hardware and software components while also meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Controls Engineers often act as a bridge between technical disciplines to troubleshoot issues and implement solutions efficiently.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsDesign offices, research labs, power plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications, industrial systems
Common Search/ComparisonControls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with machinery and PLCs. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. While both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, Controls Engineers specialize more in automation and control systems, whereas Electrical Engineers may work across various electrical disciplines.

More about Controls Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in State College, PA?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in State College, PA are:

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in State College, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,449 per year, or $45.4 per hour.

Controls Engineer

TRC Talent Solutions

Beech Creek, PA

$80K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Controls Engineer to serve as the technical authority for manufacturing processes, equipment, automation strategy, and process optimization. This role will lead the development and implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies while driving continuous improvement, equipment reliability, and operational excellence.

Technical & Operational Responsibilities

  • Serve as the technical authority for manufacturing methods, equipment selection, automation strategy, and process capability.

  • Develop long-term manufacturing technology roadmaps, including:

  • Automation

  • Robotics

  • Digital manufacturing

  • Advanced process control

  • Research, evaluate, and implement advanced manufacturing technologies, including process and material-handling automation.

  • Partner with maintenance and mechanical teams to resolve chronic equipment and system issues.

  • Document best practices and provide technical training as needed.

  • Lead cross-functional teams in evaluating and implementing equipment, method, process, and facility layout improvements.

  • Mentor and develop Manufacturing Process Engineers and Process Specialists through technical leadership and guidance.

  • Champion manufacturing readiness for New Product Introductions (NPI), ensuring process capability, quality, and production throughput requirements are achieved.

  • Ensure compliance with Technology Control Plans and Federal Export Control policies, including ITAR and EAR requirements.

Education Requirements

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in one of the following disciplines:

Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field

Qualifications

  • Experience designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated manufacturing equipment, including:

  • Experience with Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) systems strongly preferred.
    Proficiency in PLC ladder logic programming, HMI development, and SCADA systems.

  • Experience with SolidWorks 3D CAD design preferred.
    Strong understanding of industrial control systems, electrical theory, and principles of operation.

  • Minimum of 5+ years of experience working with industrial control systems and manufacturing automation.

  • Hands-on electrical and mechanical troubleshooting experience preferred.

  • Proven experience leading manufacturing or automation projects from concept through implementation.

  • Strong project management, problem-solving, and cross-functional leadership skills.