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Process Controls Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Controls Engineering * Develop PLC, HMI, and motion control software for custom automation systems ... Continuously seeks opportunities to improve processes, standards, and technical capabilities. Equal ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Langhorne, PA · On-site

$91K - $120K/yr

... process equipment. We engineer to order, as well as build to print, a wide variety of specialty ... We are seeking a Controls Engineer to take ownership of our custom HMI applications and support ...

The Building Automation & Controls Engineer enables innovation by sourcing new technologies and processes that drive efficiencies in cost and performance while creating and supporting strategic ...

Building Automation & Controls Engineer

Media, PA · On-site

$83K - $110K/yr

The Building Automation & Controls Engineer enables innovation by sourcing new technologies and processes that drive efficiencies in cost and performance while creating and supporting strategic ...

Showing results 41-60

Process Controls Engineer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$53K

$99.7K

$148.3K

How much do process controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for process controls engineer in Philadelphia, PA is $99,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,200.00 and $117,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Process Controls Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectProcess Controls EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, often with certifications in control systems or PLC programmingRequires a degree in engineering or computer science, with certifications in automation or robotics
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesManufacturing, robotics, or software development environments
Industry UsageCommonly used in process industries like chemical, oil & gas, and pharmaceuticalsUsed across manufacturing, automotive, and electronics sectors

While both roles involve automation and control systems, Process Controls Engineers focus on maintaining and optimizing process control systems in industrial settings, whereas Automation Engineers often work on designing and implementing automation solutions, including robotics and software systems. The roles overlap in skills but differ in scope and application within manufacturing environments.

How much does a process controls engineer earn?

A process controls engineer's average salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in automation and control systems can earn higher compensation, often exceeding $120,000 per year.

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

Success as a Process Controls Engineer requires a solid background in engineering principles, process automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and certifications like ISA Certified Automation Professional are typically necessary. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot system issues. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring efficient, safe, and reliable industrial operations.

What are some common challenges process controls engineers face when implementing new automation systems?

Process Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with legacy equipment, ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades, and maintaining compliance with industry safety standards. They must also collaborate closely with operations, IT, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless implementation. Effective troubleshooting, clear communication, and thorough documentation are essential for overcoming these obstacles and achieving successful project outcomes.

What is a process controls engineer?

A Process Controls Engineer is a professional who designs, implements, and maintains control systems used to operate and optimize industrial processes. They work with automation technologies, such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and instrumentation, to ensure processes run efficiently, safely, and within regulatory standards. Their role often involves troubleshooting equipment, improving process reliability, and collaborating with other engineering teams to enhance production quality. Process Controls Engineers are commonly found in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, chemical processing, and pharmaceuticals.

What does a process controls engineer do?

A process controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that manage manufacturing or industrial processes. They analyze data, troubleshoot equipment, and implement automation solutions using tools like PLCs and SCADA systems to ensure efficient and safe operations.
What are popular job titles related to Process Controls Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA? For Process Controls Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Process Controls Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for? The top searched job categories for Process Controls Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:
What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Process Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Process Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Process Controls Engineer job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,656 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Electrical Design & Controls Engineer

SunSource

Exton, PA

$77K - $103K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


SunSource rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Applied Controls, a SunSource company, is a high-tech automation distributor and solutions provider. We educate and support local manufacturers in implementing emerging technologies to reduce costs, increase productivity and improve safety. Our offerings range from industrial computers and software, Robotics, Machine Vision, and Motion Control. Our goal is to increase productivity to keep manufacturing in America successful and prosperous.  www.appliedc.com  

Applied Controls is seeking an Electrical Design & Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, integration, and commissioning of custom automation, robotics, vision, and industrial control systems. This position is responsible for electrical system design, controls programming, hardware selection, documentation development, and startup support throughout the project lifecycle.
The ideal candidate combines strong electrical design skills with hands-on controls engineering experience and is capable of taking ownership of both electrical and controls deliverables for automation projects.

Primary Responsibilities
Electrical Design & Documentation
  • Develop electrical schematics, panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and documentation packages using EPLAN.
  • Design industrial control systems including PLCs, HMIs, motion control systems, robotic systems, machine safety systems, and industrial networking.
  • Create electrical bills of materials (BOMs) and support component procurement activities.
  • Select and specify electrical components.
  • Generate manufacturing documentation packages for panel fabrication, machine assembly, installation, and customer deliverables.
  • Maintain and improve company electrical design standards and best practices.
Controls Engineering
  • Develop PLC, HMI, and motion control software for custom automation systems.
  • Configure industrial communication networks including Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP, and other industrial protocols.
  • Support robotic integration and communication with control systems.
  • Troubleshoot software, communication, and hardware-related issues during system development and deployment.
  • Develop reusable software standards and programming methodologies.
Project Execution
  • Participate in project kickoff meetings and technical design reviews.
  • Collaborate with mechanical engineers, project managers, programmers, technicians, and customers throughout project execution.
  • Review customer specifications and ensure compliance with project requirements.
  • Support technical evaluations during quoting and proposal development.
Manufacturing, Testing & Commissioning
  • Support panel fabrication and machine assembly teams during system build.
  • Perform electrical checkout and system verification.
  • Lead or support FAT, SAT, startup, and commissioning activities.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve issues during installation and startup.
Safety & Compliance
  • Design machine safety systems in accordance with applicable standards and customer requirements.
  • Support risk assessments and machine safety reviews.
  • Ensure compliance with NFPA 79, ANSI/RIA standards, OSHA requirements, and customer-specific standards.
Required Qualifications
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience designing and programming industrial automation systems.
  • Experience creating electrical schematics and documentation using EPLAN.
  • Experience programming PLC and HMI systems.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Siemens TIA Portal, S7 PLCs, WinCC HMIs, Profinet Networks, and Siemens Motion Control.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix, CompactLogix, FactoryTalk View, and Ethernet/IP Networks.
  • Experience integrating robotic systems.
  • Experience with machine vision systems.
  • Experience with machine safety design and implementation.
  • Familiarity with Beckhoff, Omron, Mitsubishi, or other automation platforms.
  • Experience supporting customer startups and commissioning activities.
Desired Characteristics
  • Takes ownership of projects from concept through commissioning.
  • Comfortable working independently while collaborating across disciplines.
  • Strong attention to detail and documentation quality.
  • Customer-focused with a commitment to delivering reliable automation solutions.
  • Hands-on mindset with willingness to assist in troubleshooting and startup activities.
  • Continuously seeks opportunities to improve processes, standards, and technical capabilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.  If you are an individual with a disability and require an accommodation to complete the application process, please contact [email protected] to request reasonable accommodation. Only requests for accommodation in the application process will be returned from this email address.  This employer uses E-Verify. Please click here for additional information. (For Illinois E-Verify information click here, aqui).   
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