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Controls Systems Designer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Industrial Controls Engineer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... designs for networking, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Systems), simulators ... controls and validation efforts. * Develop technical documentation packages. Required ...

Controls Designer The Control Systems Designer is responsible for developing, designing, and documenting control panel systems and instrumentation under limited supervision. This role involves ...

Controls Engineer

Reading, PA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer advances the controls and automation systems used in operations at Reading Truck Group by developing project scopes, designs, specifications, evaluation of alternatives, cost ...

Controls Engineer

Reading, PA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer advances the controls and automation systems used in operations at Reading Truck Group by developing project scopes, designs, specifications, evaluation of alternatives, cost ...

Controls Engineer

Reading, PA · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

The Controls Engineer advances the controls and automation systems used in operations at Reading Truck Group by developing project scopes, designs, specifications, evaluation of alternatives, cost ...

Controls Specialist

Mcadoo, PA · On-site

$29.75 - $39/hr

The Controls Specialist partners with Maintenance, Facilities, and Operations to ensure systems are properly designed, documented, and sustained, while also supporting capital projects and system ...

Controls Specialist

Mcadoo, PA

$29.75 - $39/hr

The Controls Specialist partners with Maintenance, Facilities, and Operations to ensure systems are properly designed, documented, and sustained, while also supporting capital projects and system ...

The Controls Specialist partners with Maintenance, Facilities, and Operations to ensure systems are properly designed, documented, and sustained, while also supporting capital projects and system ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Systems Designer information

What is a controls systems designer?

A Controls Systems Designer is a professional who develops and implements systems that control machinery, processes, or devices within industries such as manufacturing, automation, and building management. They design control schemes, select hardware and software, and create detailed schematics and documentation. Their work ensures that automated systems operate safely, efficiently, and according to specifications. Controls Systems Designers often collaborate with engineers, electricians, and project managers to integrate and troubleshoot these control systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls systems designer?

To thrive as a Controls Systems Designer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, automation principles, and control theory, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with PLC programming, CAD software, SCADA systems, and industry standards like IEC 61131 is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in interdisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure reliable and efficient system designs that meet client specifications and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a controls systems designer when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Systems Designers often collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and timelines. Effective communication and a strong understanding of each discipline's needs are essential to ensure seamless integration of control systems with other project components. Additionally, adapting to evolving project specifications and resolving unforeseen technical issues require flexibility and proactive problem-solving skills. Navigating these challenges successfully helps ensure project goals are met and fosters strong professional relationships within the team.

What is the difference between Controls Systems Designer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Systems DesignerControls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are commonSimilar credentials, often with engineering degrees and certifications such as CCST or PE licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused roles often in office settings, collaborating with engineers and project managersMore fieldwork involved, including installation, testing, and troubleshooting of control systems
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors for designing control systemsApplied in similar industries, with a focus on implementation and maintenance of control systems

Controls Systems Designers primarily focus on designing and planning control systems, while Controls Engineers are more involved in implementing, testing, and maintaining these systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, often within the same industries.

What job categories do people searching Controls Systems Designer jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Systems Designer jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Controls Systems Designer jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Controls Systems Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Systems Designer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Lead Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Harrisburg, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

122nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This will be an onsite position supporting Crane Clean Energy Center/Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station (Harrisburg, PA).

Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source. Our electric power generation clients are digitizing their existing power plants and building new nuclear power plants, small modular reactors (SMR). This is expanding work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group.  You will work on major process controls engineering projects in the following areas:

  • Develop and market high level, complex programs for nuclear power projects associated with design, operational excellence, safety, maintenance, and project management.
  • This position will offer you the opportunity to direct technical decision making, in a project team environment with other engineers and designers involved in the design, modification, and analysis of new and existing power plant controls systems, specifically digital upgrades
  • You will work on challenging assignments that include investigating, troubleshooting, and solving a wide variety of instrumentation & controls engineering issues,
  • Coordinate systems design activities to ensure installation and operations will comply with specifications, codes, and client requirements,
  • Perform Digital Systems Design Development -- PLC, DCS, HSI, networked computer systems, and digital instrumentation & control systems functional requirements for nuclear plant systems.  Work collaboratively on quality assessments and critical digital reviews,
  • Perform consulting level work for digital IOT, innovation, and strategic first of a kind (FOAK) projects for the nuclear industry,
  • Prepare and review detailed calculations, including scaling, uncertainty, and setpoint calculations for analog and digital controls applications,
  • Prepare documentation for design input for drawing production including master diagrams and schematics,
  • Interface with vendors to prepare and review materials and equipment purchase specifications,
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements,
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others including calculations and drawing preparation,
  • Attend client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction
  • Support station outage activities as required
Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • BS degree in engineering from an ABET accredited program.
  • 10 or more years of experience in the design of instrumentations and controls engineering systems in a project team environment for non-commercial, heavy industrial plants, with a focus on integrated, detailed system design for new plants, or modifications or replacements for existing plants.
  • Experience with controls system design including applications for low and medium voltage distribution systems and controls for equipment including but not limited to turbines, pumps, feedwater control, and data displays.
  • Experience with power plant instrumentation and controls systems design for either BWR of PWR reactors, including DCS for turbine, control, feedwater control, and data display.
  • Technically knowledgeable of available equipment and proven pre-engineered systems to execute systems design
  • Experience with serving as firm/client liaison in a support or lead engineering role is desirable.
  • Experience in reviewing design drawings created by others.

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • PE license preferred
  • Construction and start-up experience a plus
  • Commissioning experience a plus
  • Broad background in providing technical support to nuclear plant projects - from design, project planning, providing technical expertise associated with testing and operations, contract specifications, project oversight, successful project execution, and overall direction of complex nuclear projects. Licensing strategies associated with Digital I&C Modernization projects
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$118,023 - $180,313Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!

Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Sargent & Lundy

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Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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