Controls Engineer (Automation Engineer, PLC Engineer)
Location: Beech Creek, PA
Job Type: Direct Hire
Company: TRC Talent Solutions
Salary: $110,000 - $130 Per Year
Category: Manufacturing
Job Description Apply Now
The Controls Engineer, also known in the industry as an Automation Engineer or PLC Engineer, plays a pivotal role in driving the technical direction of manufacturing operations. This full-time position is dedicated to ensuring that manufacturing processes, equipment, and automation strategies are optimized to promote efficiency, reliability, and innovation. As the technical authority, the Controls Engineer will spearhead the adoption and integration of advanced manufacturing technologies, fostering continuous improvement and supporting the organization’s commitment to operational excellence.
The Controls Engineer will serve as the primary subject matter expert for all aspects related to manufacturing methods, equipment selection, and process capability. This includes the development of long-term technology roadmaps that guide the company’s automation, robotics, digital manufacturing, and advanced process control initiatives. Working cross-functionally, the Controls Engineer collaborates with maintenance and mechanical teams to resolve complex equipment and system challenges. The successful candidate will also take a leadership role in documenting best practices, providing technical training, and mentoring junior engineers and process specialists.
In addition to technical responsibilities, the Controls Engineer will be expected to lead cross-disciplinary teams in evaluating and implementing improvements across equipment, methods, processes, and facility layouts. The role demands a proactive approach to championing manufacturing readiness for New Product Introductions (NPI), ensuring that process capability, quality, and production throughput requirements are consistently met. Compliance is also a critical component, as the Controls Engineer must ensure adherence to Technology Control Plans and Federal Export Control policies, including ITAR and EAR requirements.
The ideal candidate for the Controls Engineer position will bring a solid educational background in electro-mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, robotics engineering, manufacturing engineering, or a closely related field. Both associate’s and bachelor’s degrees are acceptable, provided the candidate can demonstrate hands-on experience and technical proficiency. A minimum of five years’ experience working with industrial control systems and manufacturing automation is essential, with a preference for candidates who have direct experience in designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated manufacturing equipment.
Technical expertise with Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) systems, as well as proficiency in PLC ladder logic programming, HMI development, and SCADA systems, is highly valued. Additional skills, such as experience with SolidWorks 3D CAD design and a strong understanding of industrial control systems and electrical theory, will further distinguish top candidates. Hands-on electrical and mechanical troubleshooting experience, as well as a proven track record of leading automation projects from concept through implementation, are considered significant assets.
Project management, problem-solving, and cross-functional leadership skills are crucial for success in this role. The Controls Engineer must be able to effectively navigate complex challenges, coordinate with various departments, and deliver solutions that drive the organization’s manufacturing capabilities forward. The position offers an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking to make a tangible impact on the company’s technological evolution and operational performance.
The organization is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds. As a Controls Engineer, you will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment that values innovation, professional growth, and continuous learning. If you are ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to a forward-thinking team, we encourage you to apply now by clicking the job application button.
Controls Engineer (Automation Engineer, PLC Engineer) - Summary- Technical authority for manufacturing process automation and optimization
- Leads adoption and implementation of advanced manufacturing technologies
- Drives continuous improvement and equipment reliability
- Ensures compliance with relevant technology and export control policies
- Mentors and develops junior engineering staff
- Develop and manage manufacturing technology roadmaps
- Research, evaluate, and implement automation, robotics, and advanced process control systems
- Partner with maintenance and mechanical teams to resolve equipment issues
- Document best practices and provide technical training as needed
- Lead cross-functional teams to implement equipment and process improvements
- Mentor Manufacturing Process Engineers and Process Specialists
- Champion manufacturing readiness for New Product Introductions (NPI)
- Ensure compliance with ITAR, EAR, and Technology Control Plans
- Competitive compensation package offered
- Comprehensive benefits typical for a Controls Engineer role
- Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
- Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years’ experience working with industrial control systems and manufacturing automation
- Experience designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting automated manufacturing equipment
- Proficiency in Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley) systems
- Skilled in PLC ladder logic programming, HMI development, and SCADA systems
- Experience with SolidWorks 3D CAD design preferred
- Strong understanding of industrial control systems and electrical theory
- Proven project management and cross-functional leadership abilities
- Technically adept and experienced in advanced manufacturing automation
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
- Excellent communicator and effective cross-functional team leader
- Proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement
- Keen interest in mentoring and developing others
- Organization values diversity, innovation, and professional growth
- Role offers the chance to work with advanced technologies in a collaborative environment
- Apply today by clicking the job application button to join a leading company in manufacturing automation