Remote work opportunities for Controls Engineers in 2025

The future of work is evolving rapidly, and remote work has become an increasingly viable option across many industries, including controls engineering. As the demand for automation, robotics, and digitalization grows, so does the need for skilled controls engineers to design, optimize, and maintain control systems for a wide range of applications. Advances in technology, cloud computing, and remote collaboration tools are making it easier than ever for controls engineers to work from virtually anywhere. In this article, we will explore the remote work opportunities available for controls engineers in 2025, the roles they can pursue, and the tools that facilitate remote work in this field.

1. Remote Roles for Controls Engineers

Controls engineers typically work on designing, testing, and optimizing control systems for industrial automation, robotics, and various other applications. Many of these tasks can be performed remotely with the right tools and technologies. Some of the key remote roles for controls engineers in 2025 include:

• Control Systems Designer ? A primary role for controls engineers involves designing control systems for machinery, automation, and industrial processes. This can often be done remotely by using CAD software and simulation tools, as long as engineers can collaborate with other team members for feedback and system testing.
• Automation Engineer ? Automation engineers design and implement automated systems that increase efficiency and reduce human intervention in manufacturing, energy, and other sectors. With remote collaboration tools and remote access to automation systems, these engineers can perform design work and system optimizations from home or any location.
• PLC Programmer ? Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are used to control machinery and processes in industrial settings. PLC programmers design, test, and troubleshoot control systems that rely on PLCs. Many aspects of PLC programming and debugging can be done remotely, provided there is secure access to the machines or systems being controlled.
• System Integration Engineer ? Controls engineers who specialize in integrating various hardware and software components into a unified system play an important role in automation and robotics. With access to virtual collaboration tools, remote configuration, and simulation platforms, system integration engineers can perform much of their work remotely.
• Remote Monitoring and Diagnostics Engineer ? Engineers who specialize in monitoring and diagnosing control system issues remotely can troubleshoot equipment and system malfunctions from any location. With remote diagnostics tools, they can analyze system performance, detect faults, and provide solutions to prevent downtime.

The rise of cloud-based systems, remote access technologies, and real-time monitoring solutions has made it possible for controls engineers to perform many of their duties from remote locations, allowing them to work more flexibly and efficiently.

2. Industries Offering Remote Work for Controls Engineers

Several industries are increasingly adopting remote work for controls engineers due to the advancements in digitalization, automation, and remote monitoring. Some of the key industries where remote work opportunities are available for controls engineers include:

• Manufacturing ? The manufacturing industry has long been a major employer of controls engineers. With the increasing reliance on automation and robotics, manufacturing companies are embracing remote work options for their controls engineers. Engineers can design, program, and monitor automated systems remotely, allowing for real-time adjustments and optimizations to improve efficiency and reduce downtime.
• Energy and Utilities ? Controls engineers in the energy sector work on automation systems, power generation, and distribution. Many of the monitoring and optimization tasks, including real-time system adjustments, can be handled remotely. Engineers can manage control systems for power plants, smart grids, and renewable energy sources without needing to be on-site.
• Robotics and Automation ? As robotics technology continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for controls engineers who can design and optimize control systems for robots and automation systems. With cloud-based tools, simulation software, and remote access capabilities, controls engineers in this field can work remotely to improve robotic systems and their integration into production lines.
• Aerospace and Defense ? Aerospace and defense companies that design and implement control systems for aircraft, spacecraft, and military equipment are increasingly offering remote work options. Controls engineers in these fields can perform simulations, system optimizations, and software updates from remote locations while collaborating with on-site engineers for testing and integration.
• Automotive ? The automotive industry is embracing automation and electrification, creating a demand for controls engineers who can work remotely on control systems for electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving systems, and manufacturing processes. Engineers can work on designing and optimizing these systems using simulation tools and virtual collaboration platforms.
• Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology ? Controls engineers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors are responsible for ensuring that control systems for production lines, research labs, and medical devices operate efficiently and safely. Many tasks, such as system design, maintenance, and monitoring, can be done remotely to ensure continuous operation and regulatory compliance.

As industries continue to integrate more automation, digital systems, and IoT technologies, the ability to work remotely as a controls engineer will expand, offering more opportunities for flexible work arrangements.

3. Remote Collaboration Tools for Controls Engineers

Remote work for controls engineers is made possible through the use of various collaboration tools and technologies that facilitate communication, data sharing, and system access. Some of the most important tools and platforms for remote work in controls engineering include:

• Cloud-based control systems ? Cloud computing allows controls engineers to access control systems, simulations, and design files from any location. Cloud platforms enable real-time collaboration, system monitoring, and updates, making it easier to manage control systems remotely. Popular cloud platforms include Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Google Cloud.
• Remote access software ? Tools like TeamViewer, AnyDesk, and VNC allow engineers to remotely access and control industrial control systems and PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers). These tools enable engineers to troubleshoot and make adjustments to systems without being physically present on-site.
• Collaborative design tools ? Tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and MATLAB allow engineers to collaborate remotely on control system designs, simulations, and optimizations. These platforms provide engineers with the ability to create and test control systems in a virtual environment before implementation.
• Real-time data monitoring and diagnostics ? IoT-enabled sensors, SCADA systems, and other monitoring platforms provide engineers with real-time data on system performance. Tools like Wonderware, Siemens WinCC, and Rockwell FactoryTalk allow controls engineers to monitor systems remotely and respond to issues as they arise.
• Video conferencing tools ? Video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet enable engineers to communicate effectively with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, regardless of their location. These tools facilitate meetings, brainstorming sessions, and progress updates on projects.

These collaboration tools ensure that controls engineers can perform their duties efficiently while maintaining communication with other team members and stakeholders. The use of these tools will continue to grow as remote work becomes more common in the field of controls engineering.

4. Benefits of Remote Work for Controls Engineers

Remote work offers numerous benefits for controls engineers, including improved work-life balance, increased flexibility, and access to global job opportunities. Some of the key advantages of remote work in controls engineering include:

• Improved work-life balance ? Remote work allows controls engineers to set their own schedules and work from the comfort of their home or another location of their choosing. This flexibility leads to a better work-life balance, reducing the stress and time commitment of commuting.
• Access to global job opportunities ? By working remotely, controls engineers can take advantage of job opportunities around the world, even if the employer is based in a different region or country. This opens up more career paths and enables engineers to work on diverse projects with international teams.
• Increased productivity ? Many engineers find that they are more productive when working remotely due to fewer distractions and the ability to create a personalized workspace. Additionally, remote work enables engineers to work at their own pace and avoid the time lost in commuting.
• Cost savings ? Remote work eliminates commuting costs, saving engineers money on transportation and related expenses. Employers may also save on office space and overhead costs by allowing employees to work from home.

5. Challenges of Remote Work for Controls Engineers

While remote work offers many benefits, there are also some challenges that controls engineers may face. These challenges include:

• Communication barriers ? Remote work requires strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively through digital platforms. Engineers must be proactive in maintaining clear and open communication with colleagues, project managers, and clients.
• Access to physical systems ? Some aspects of controls engineering, such as hardware installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, may still require engineers to be on-site. Engineers may need to coordinate with on-site teams or schedule periodic visits to address issues that cannot be resolved remotely.
• Technology limitations ? Remote work relies heavily on internet connectivity and technology tools. Engineers must have access to high-speed internet, reliable software, and the necessary hardware to perform their work efficiently. Any technical difficulties can disrupt productivity.

Conclusion

Remote work opportunities for controls engineers are rapidly expanding as digitalization, automation, and remote access technologies continue to evolve. With the right tools, skills, and support, controls engineers can work remotely to design, optimize, and maintain control systems across a variety of industries. The flexibility, increased productivity, and access to global job opportunities make remote work an attractive option for engineers in this field. However, it is important for engineers to address the challenges of remote work, such as communication barriers and access to physical systems, to ensure successful outcomes in their projects.