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Automation Control Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

At Wesa Automation, we provide state-of-the-art engineering, automation, and controls integration ... Our team of electrical control specialists combines deep expertise with innovative thinking to ...

Automation Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $83K/yr

Perform diagnosis of the various automation control systems using diagrams, schematics, manuals and ... Perform specific automation programing tasks and other services relating to the upkeep of the ...

Automation Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $83K/yr

Perform diagnosis of the various automation control systems using diagrams, schematics, manuals and ... Perform specific automation programing tasks and other services relating to the upkeep of the ...

Additionally, this position will develop and execute plans for optimizing process control and ... The Automation Engineer will work with the Project Engineers, Process Engineers, Process Mechanics ...

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Automation Control Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$103.8K

$158K

How much do automation control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation control engineer in Illinois is $103,808.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,800.00 and $119,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an automation control engineer do?

An automation control engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate manufacturing processes and industrial operations. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and control software to improve efficiency, safety, and reliability in automated systems. The role often requires knowledge of electrical engineering, control theory, and relevant industry standards.

What is the difference between Automation Control Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Control EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Automation, Control Systems, or Electrical Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsPower plants, electrical design firms, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower, construction, electronics

Automation Control Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated systems and control processes, often working with PLCs and SCADA. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Automation Control Engineers specialize in automation technology within industrial environments.

How does an Automation Control Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project?

Automation Control Engineers frequently work alongside mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as production and maintenance teams, to design, implement, and optimize automated systems. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as engineers must integrate control systems with other disciplines and ensure seamless operation within the larger production environment. Regular meetings, design reviews, and troubleshooting sessions are common, enabling the team to address challenges quickly and maintain project timelines. Building strong professional relationships and understanding each team's needs can greatly improve project outcomes.

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

To thrive as an Automation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and process automation, often requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and relevant industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens is typically expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help set top candidates apart. Mastery of these skills ensures reliable system performance, smooth integration of automated solutions, and efficient troubleshooting in complex industrial environments.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced automation control engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or large-scale manufacturing can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These roles often require extensive expertise in control systems, programming, and project management, along with a track record of successful large projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior automation control engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks, and often working in high-demand industries or management roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. Achieving this salary typically requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in large or complex facilities.

What is an Automation Control Engineer?

An Automation Control Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems that control automated processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation. They work with technologies like programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and robotics to optimize and streamline production or operational workflows. Their work ensures efficiency, safety, and reliability in automated systems. Automation Control Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to implement and troubleshoot control solutions.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior automation control engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial networks can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in senior or managerial roles.
What job categories do people searching Automation Control Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Control Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Automation Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Automation Control Engineer job openings:
Quality Control Engineer III (Hybrid - Chicago, IL)

Quality Control Engineer III (Hybrid - Chicago, IL)

Energy Solutions - USA

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$108K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Interested in joining a growing company where you will work with talented colleagues, enhance a supportive and energetic culture, and be part of the climate solution? At Energy Solutions, we focus on the big impacts. And we believe that market-based programs can be a powerful force to deliver large-scale energy, carbon, and water-use savings. Since 1995, we've harnessed that power to offer proven, performance-based solutions for our utility, government, and institutional customers.
We are seeking a Quality Control Engineer III to join our Information Systems. In this opportunity, you will dive into our core systems-including our vital IRIS platform-to champion the accuracy, reliability, and sheer excellence of complex technology solutions. This isn't just about finding bugs; it's your opportunity to actively shape our testing philosophies, elevate quality practices, and pioneer robust validation strategies across our entire software and data ecosystem.
Operating with immense independence, you will design, write, and execute brilliant automated and manual tests, tackling complex technical challenges head-on. You will partner dynamically with engineering teams to supercharge test coverage and ensure flawless delivery, while serving as an inspiring technical mentor and peer trainer who elevates junior engineers through hands-on coaching. If you are a seasoned pro with sharp automation skills who can develop automated UI tests with minimal ramp-up and a passion for driving long-term process evolution, we want you to lead the charge in our quality revolution.
The person filling this role will be required to work in a hybrid work environment adjacent to one of our offices in Oakland, CA; Orange, CA; New York, NY; Portland, OR; Boston, MA; or Chicago, IL
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Design, execute, and maintain manual and automated test approaches for software features, workflows, and integrated systems
  • Develop and enhance automated testing frameworks and CI/CD quality integrations to improve reliability and scalability
  • Design and apply test approaches for assigned projects across functional, regression, integration, performance, and security testing
  • Improve and monitor quality metrics for assigned projects to evaluate test effectiveness, defect trends, and coverage
  • Partner with engineering teams to integrate testing practices into development, deployment, and release workflows
  • Develop, maintain, and execute automated test suites using tools such as Selenium, Cypress, Playwright, or Pytest
  • Write and improve automated UI tests based on prior automation experience and team practices
  • Perform hands-on testing across assigned systems and projects to identify defects, validate functionality, and reduce delivery risk
  • Conduct root cause analysis on recurring issues and support preventive actions to reduce defect recurrence
  • Support quality gate adherence within CI/CD processes and release workflows
  • Apply testing practices that align with expectations related to privacy, security, accessibility, and quality standards
  • Serve as a peer mentor and trainer to Quality Control Engineers I and II by sharing expertise and guiding testing practices
  • Evaluate and adopt new tools, automation techniques, and testing frameworks that improve efficiency and coverage

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, a related technical field, or equivalent technical experience
  • Six years of experience testing software products in a professional setting
  • Demonstrated experience designing, developing, and executing test automation and quality assurance practices within complex software environments
  • Experience working with Agile methodologies and CI/CD environments to support reliable, efficient, and scalable software delivery
  • Proficiency with test automation tools and frameworks (e.g., Selenium, Cypress, Playwright, Pytest, or similar)
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly communicate technical findings, testing outcomes, and quality risks to cross-functional stakeholders
  • Proficiency in test automation and programming, with the ability to design, write, and maintain automated test cases (including UI tests) and supporting frameworks
  • Ability to analyze system behavior, identify defects, and resolve complex testing issues independently once familiar with the system and product landscape
  • Ability to influence testing approaches and quality decisions by providing informed input on coverage, prioritization, and test strategy
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate and adopt new testing tools and technologies to improve testing effectiveness and efficiency

The salary range for this role is $108,000-$125,000, with a target compensation of $108,000 - $118,000 based on experience and qualifications.
Compensation is commensurate with experience and includes a generous retirement package. Energy Solutions provides an excellent benefits package including medical, dental and vision insurance, other pre-tax contribution plans and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
AI Use
At Energy Solutions we believe in the importance of authentic interactions and equitable opportunities. We base our candidate selection on one's own skills, knowledge, and experience. To ensure the integrity and fairness of our interview process, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools (including Generative AI) or other means to generate or assist with responses during interviews is strictly prohibited. This practice supports our commitment to create a transparent and equitable space where skills, knowledge and experience can truly shine.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Energy Solutions is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. We afford equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by law. Energy Solutions conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws and regulations.
Office Locations and a Remote Workforce
Energy Solutions operates as a predominantly remote workforce with offices in six different locations. Employees who reside within 40 miles of an office (except New York) will be assigned to that location, though in-office attendance requirements may vary by team. At this time, we are not accepting applications from candidates residing in the following states: Delaware, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, and North Dakota.
Background Check Information
Information will be requested to perform the compulsory background check. A drug screen and authorization to work in the U.S. indefinitely are preconditions of employment. Energy Solutions is an equal opportunity employer.
Reasonable Accommodations
Energy Solutions is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodations in completing this application, interviewing, and/or completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please email accommodation@energy-solution.com.
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