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Controls Programmer Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer III - ASRS

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$80.10K - $103.60K/yr

With hundreds of engineers in-house, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs a ... controls & execution software, robotics, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS ...

CNC Programmer 68696

Ogden, UT

$26 - $35.50/hr

CNC Programmer We have an immediate long-term project opportunity for a highly skilled and self driven CNC Programmer to support end to end numerical controls programming and machining prove out ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Price, UT · On-site

$87.80K - $115.90K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Price, UT

$87.80K - $115.90K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Price, UT · On-site

$87.80K - $115.90K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design, deployment, testing, and maintenance of control system projects. Responsibilities include ...

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Controls Programmer information

See Utah salary details

$36.9K

$73.4K

$102K

How much do controls programmer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls programmer in Utah is $73,434.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,900.00 and $84,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Controls Programmer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and programming logic, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and programming languages like ladder logic or Structured Text is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with engineers and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the development and maintenance of efficient, reliable automation solutions critical for modern industrial operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by Controls Programmers when integrating new automation systems into existing manufacturing environments?

Controls Programmers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new automation systems and legacy equipment, minimizing production downtime during integration, and troubleshooting unforeseen issues that arise with hardware or software interfaces. Effective communication with electrical engineers, maintenance staff, and production teams is crucial to address these challenges efficiently. Staying up-to-date with evolving industry standards and control technologies also helps in developing robust solutions that support business goals and maintain operational safety.

What are Controls Programmers?

Controls Programmers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software to control automated machinery and systems, typically in industrial or manufacturing environments. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and other control systems to ensure machines operate efficiently and safely. Their role involves writing and testing code, troubleshooting automation issues, and collaborating with engineers and technicians to optimize processes. Controls Programmers are essential for maintaining and improving automated production lines and industrial equipment.

Are control engineers in high demand?

Control engineers are in high demand due to the increasing need for automation and process control in manufacturing, energy, and technology sectors. They often require skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and control theory, and job growth is expected to remain strong as industries modernize their systems.

What is the difference between Controls Programmer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControls ProgrammerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, computer, or control engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonRequires a degree in engineering or computer science; certifications in automation systems are beneficial
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in manufacturing, industrial plants, or automation facilitiesWorks across industries including manufacturing, process industries, and systems integration
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by automation companies, manufacturing plants, and system integratorsEmployed by engineering firms, manufacturing companies, and technology providers

Controls Programmers focus on developing and implementing control systems, primarily programming PLCs and SCADA systems. Automation Engineers have a broader role, including designing, testing, and optimizing automation processes. While both roles require technical skills and industry experience, Controls Programmers are more specialized in coding and system configuration, whereas Automation Engineers oversee entire automation projects.

What are popular job titles related to Controls Programmer jobs in Utah? For Controls Programmer jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Controls Programmer job openings in Utah as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $73,434 per year, or $35.3 per hour.
Electrical Engineer- Controls/PLC

Electrical Engineer- Controls/PLC

Thatcher Company, Inc.

Salt Lake City, UT

$77.80K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Thatcher Company is seeking a skilled Controls Engineer to join our engineering team in Salt Lake City, UT. This role would lead and support automation and process control initiatives within our manufacturing operations. It would also include managing capital projects, improving system performance and reliability, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

What You Will Do

  • Lead and manage control system–related capital projects, including new installations, expansions, and major upgrades.
  • Develop project scopes, budgets, schedules, and technical requirements for control system initiatives.
  • Coordinate with engineering, operations, IT, vendors, and contractors to ensure successful project execution.
  • Review and approve control system designs, programming standards, and hardware selections.
  • Oversee commissioning, testing, and startup activities to ensure systems meet performance, safety, and compliance requirements.
  • Monitor and improve manufacturing process control and safety system performance.
  • Identify and implement opportunities to improve process monitoring, system efficiency, reliability, and standardization.
  • Recommend technological upgrades and automation best practices.
  • Diagnose and resolve control system and instrumentation issues to minimize downtime.
  • Perform control system modifications, upgrades, and optimizations.
  • Support installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control and instrumentation systems.
  • Provide technical guidance to maintenance and operations teams.
  • Support preventive and predictive maintenance programs.
  • Maintain control system documentation, including drawings, I/O lists, and software backups.
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and company safety procedures, including electrical safety and lockout/tagout (LOTO).
  • Support audits and regulatory inspections as needed.

Basic Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering (i.e: Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.) with 5+ years of experience in a chemical or manufacturing facility.
  • Experience in PLC systems, including understanding PLC ladder logic.
  • Travel =< 15%
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to frequently stand, walk, lift, carry, push, pull, reach, handle, bend, twist, climb and balance.

What Will Put You Ahead

  • Experience in industry control systems.
  • Experience creating P&IDs and Electrical Schematics.
  • Experience with managing controls projects.
  • Familiarity with Delta V, Schneider (Modicon) PLCs, Codesys based IEC 61131-3 PLCs, Automation Direct Productivity PLCs, Beijer X2 HMIs.
  • Experience with networking, industrial Ethernet, and basic cybersecurity concepts.
  • Experience in the chemical industry with manufacturing processes, or experience in refining and major petrochemical operations.

Why Thatcher is right for you

  • 100% company-funded Profit-Sharing Plan (up to 25% of salary annually)
  • 401(k) with traditional and Roth contribution options
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, HSA/FSA,
  • 3+ weeks of PTO, and paid holidays
  • Education reimbursement and ongoing professional development.

The pay for the successful candidate will depend on various factors (e.g., qualifications, education, prior experience). Applications will be accepted while this position is posted on our Careers website. Thatcher is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer, including protected Veterans and individuals with disabilities.