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PLC Control Systems Engineer

Confidential Client•Aerospace & Defense
Entry LevelFull-timeOn-Site$134,460
Elkins Park, Pennsylvania
18 Hours Ago

The PLC Control Systems Engineer at Confidential Client supports Naval Sea Systems Command missions by providing hands-on lifecycle support for ruggedized industrial PLC hardware and software in shipboard and land-based environments. Responsibilities include PLC programming, troubleshooting, system integration, and technical documentation to ensure reliable operation and modernization of control systems. The role requires collaboration with engineering teams to enhance current and future MCS variants, with travel and physical work in naval industrial settings.

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Description

About Careertakes

👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.

Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.


What You’ll Do

Confidential Client is hiring PLC Control Systems Engineers to work hands-on with rugged, industrial-grade Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) hardware and software that support shipboard systems and land-based engineering sites (LBES). You will provide full-lifecycle support including integration, troubleshooting, upgrades, validation, and system-level design for current and future mission-critical control systems.

  • Daily interaction with and troubleshooting of PLC hardware and associated field devices
  • PLC programming, modification, validation, and verification to meet evolving system requirements
  • Support design and integration of PLC equipment in shipboard and industrial control environments
  • Identify, document, and resolve software and system-related issues (remote and onsite support)
  • Review and maintain system documentation, logic diagrams, and control narratives
  • Write and update technical documentation (user manuals, product specifications, training materials)
  • Develop and execute test plans and procedures for PLC-controlled systems
  • Assist with PLC software and hardware installation and system-level software requirements definition

Who We’re Looking For (Required Qualifications)

This requisition covers multiple levels: Entry, Mid, and Senior. Applicants should meet the qualifications for the level they apply to.

Entry Level

  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline (Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering preferred)
  • 0–3 years professional experience
  • Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one; ability to ship/perform cleared work as required
  • Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one upon acceptance
  • Willingness to travel ~10–20%
  • Salary Range (Entry): $71,800 - $112,150

Mid Level

  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline (preferred majors listed above)
  • 3+ years professional experience
  • Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one; ability to ship/perform cleared work as required
  • Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one upon acceptance
  • Willingness to travel ~10–20%
  • Salary Range (Mid): $78,900 - $123,300

Senior Level

  • Master’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering preferred
  • 10+ years professional experience
  • Active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one; ability to ship/perform cleared work as required
  • Valid U.S. passport or ability to obtain one upon acceptance
  • Willingness to travel ~10–20%
  • Salary Range (Senior): $95,500 - $149,200

Desired Qualifications

  • Hands-on experience with Siemens (S7-1500, TIA Portal) and/or Allen-Bradley (ControlLogix, RSLogix 5000) PLC platforms
  • Strong understanding of PLC logic, control strategies, and IEC 61131-3 languages (ladder logic, structured text)
  • Experience with networked, IP-based control systems and protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet)
  • Proficient reading/interpreting electrical schematics and control system drawings
  • Experience with SCADA/HMI development and SIM/STIM development
  • Background in hardware upgrades and modernizing legacy embedded PLC systems
  • Familiarity with test and diagnostic tools specific to PLC-based systems

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

Work may occur in naval industrial environments (shipboard or pierside). Candidates must be able to:

  • Stand, walk, and climb ladders/stairs while carrying tools or equipment; work in confined spaces when required
  • Lift and handle materials up to ~50 pounds regularly (with assistance for heavier items)
  • Work in varying environmental conditions (temperature extremes, humidity, exposure to weather) and maintain balance on moving vessels
  • Respond quickly to emergency situations and follow safety procedures

Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities who can perform essential job functions with or without accommodations.


Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is determined by education, experience, certifications, internal and external equity, location, clearance level, and contract requirements. Confidential Client offers a total rewards package that may include health, life, disability, retirement, paid leave, professional development, and other benefits for eligible employees.

Posted salary range (from source): USD $65,200.00 - USD $101,950.00 / Yr. (Full-time equivalent). Specific level-based salary ranges are listed above.


About Confidential Client

Confidential Client and its subsidiaries deliver advanced engineering solutions for mission-critical federal programs. Teams collaborate across engineering, systems integration, cybersecurity, logistics, and lifecycle optimization to support defense and federal customers.

Remote/hybrid status is subject to change based on client and contract requirements.


Commitment to Inclusion

All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability, pregnancy/childbirth, veteran or military status, or other characteristics protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please notify the recruiter.


Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency

Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.

If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.

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