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Entry Level Control Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania State University

$81K - $137K/yr

POSITION SPECIFICS The Guidance and Control Technologies Division in the Undersea Systems Office (USO) of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking entry level Engineers to research, develop ...

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Control Panel Technician (Entry-Level to Experienced)

Bridgeville, PA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Control Panel Technician (Entry-Level to Experienced) Location: Bridgeville, PA Job Type: Full-Time ... Work closely with engineers, project managers, and fellow technicians to ensure projects meet ...

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All JobsControl Engineer JobsEntry Level Control Engineer JobsEntry Level Control Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Entry Level Control Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$14.4K

$49.9K

$113.4K

How much do entry level control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level control engineer in Pennsylvania is $49,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26,093.00 and $67,482.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level control engineer do?

An entry level control engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and implementation of control systems used in manufacturing, industrial processes, or automation. Their tasks often include programming controllers, troubleshooting equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating with senior engineers on projects. They typically work with PLCs (programmable logic controllers) and other automation hardware to optimize processes and ensure systems operate safely and efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level control engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Entry level control engineers often encounter challenges such as communicating effectively with colleagues from different engineering backgrounds (mechanical, electrical, software) and translating control requirements into actionable tasks. Additionally, understanding system integration and troubleshooting unexpected behaviors in complex automated processes can be demanding. Proactively asking questions, actively participating in meetings, and seeking mentorship within the team are key strategies for overcoming these hurdles and accelerating professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Control Engineer, you need a solid understanding of control systems, automation principles, and a degree in electrical, mechanical, or a related engineering discipline. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and simulation software like MATLAB or LabVIEW is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel when collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the successful design, implementation, and maintenance of automated processes that meet safety and efficiency standards.

What is the difference between Entry Level Control Engineer vs Control Systems Technician?

AspectEntry Level Control EngineerControl Systems Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control EngineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in control systems or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of control systems; office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control systems on-site
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, energy sectorsIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation companies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Control EngineerControl Systems Technician

While both roles involve working with control systems, Entry Level Control Engineers focus on designing and developing control solutions, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Control Systems Technicians typically handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, often with technical certifications. The roles complement each other within industrial and manufacturing environments, with engineers focusing on planning and technicians on execution and support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Control Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Control Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Entry Level Control Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Control Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Control Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Entry Level Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Entry Level Control Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Control Engineer jobs near you
Guidance and Control Engineer

Guidance and Control Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$81K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

201st of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Guidance and Control Technologies Division in the Undersea Systems Office (USO) of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking entry level Engineers to research, develop, analyze, implement, and test new capabilities for autonomous undersea systems. You will be part of one or more design teams whose primary function is to develop guidance and control systems for current and future autonomous undersea systems.
You will:
  • Design algorithms for vehicle guidance and control in an undersea environment, including signal processing, detection, classification, tracking, and autonomous decision-making
  • Analyze multi-sensor data to evaluate system performance
  • Design, implement, integrate, and test software to demonstrate guidance and control algorithms
  • Collaborate and communicate with a team of peers
  • Document work through reports and presentations

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position include:
  • Investigate and evaluate applicability of theories and practices to the development of guidance and control systems
  • Lead specific tasks within the project scope

Required skills/experience include:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or Data Science
  • Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills

Preferred skills/experience include:
  • One of more of the following: MATLAB, Python, C++
  • Object-oriented software design
  • Vehicle autonomy
  • Object tracking and classification
  • Machine learning
  • Intelligent control and fuzzy logic

You working location will be full on-site located in State College, PA
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or ScienceNo prior relevant work experience requiredRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $81,312.00 - $137,280.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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