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Automation Controls Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Automation Controls Engineer

Normal, IL · On-site

$43.34 - $57.31/hr

Contract Controls Engineer Pay rate: $43.34- $57.31/hr. Location: Normal, IL Zip Code: 61761 ... Manage advanced robotic automation sequences, configurations, and paths utilizing Fanuc platforms.

Automation & Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $113K/yr

... Controls Engineer with an interest in providing quality solutions to clients in a variety of ... Customer engagement and management skills * Strong interpersonal skills * Exceptional verbal and ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$86K - $113K/yr

... Controls Engineer with an interest in providing quality solutions to clients in a variety of ... Customer engagement and management skills * Strong interpersonal skills * Exceptional verbal and ...

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Automation Controls Manager information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation controls manager?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Manager, you need expertise in control systems engineering, PLC programming, industrial automation, and typically a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMI software, industry-standard PLCs (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), and relevant certifications like ISA CAP are essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills help manage teams and facilitate cross-departmental collaboration. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems that drive operational efficiency and safety.

What is an automation controls manager?

Automation Controls Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems within manufacturing or industrial environments. They manage teams of engineers and technicians, ensure that control systems operate efficiently and safely, and coordinate improvements to increase productivity. Typically, they also work on troubleshooting and upgrading control hardware and software, while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Their role is crucial in optimizing automated processes and minimizing downtime.

What are some common challenges faced by automation controls managers when overseeing multidisciplinary teams?

Automation Controls Managers often coordinate between engineering, IT, and operations departments, which can present challenges in aligning priorities and communication styles. Managing projects that involve both hardware and software components requires strong organizational skills and the ability to translate technical requirements across disciplines. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving automation technologies while ensuring team members receive proper training is a key aspect of the role. Successful managers foster collaboration by promoting open communication and cross-functional problem-solving.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Manager vs Automation Technician?

AspectAutomation Controls ManagerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)Associate degree or technical diploma, certifications like Siemens or Allen-Bradley technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees automation projects, manages teams, coordinates with engineering and managementPerforms hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation systems
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, industrial facilities, and large-scale automation settingsCommon in factories, plants, and maintenance departments

The Automation Controls Manager focuses on overseeing automation projects and managing teams, requiring higher-level credentials and strategic responsibilities. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles the technical installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in automation environments but differ in scope and seniority.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Manager jobs in Illinois? For Automation Controls Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Automation Controls Manager jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Automation Controls Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Automation Controls Engineer

Genesis Automation

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$81K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Salary:

Job description

Position Title: Electrical Controls Engineer

Department: Electrical Controls

Report To: Electrical Controls Department Manager

Genesis Automation designs and builds custom automated assembly, test, and special process equipment for a wide array of industries. Genesis offers an unparalleled opportunity for those who want to work in a hi-tech field applying the latest state of the art technologies while helping to implement creative solutions to solve complex problems. Awesome opportunity for a motivated candidate to grow with us.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Review customer specifications, product drawings, and related documentation to determine best overall control solution to meet or exceed customer requirements.
  • Development of overall controls architecture for complex assembly, test, and special process systems incorporating pneumatic, cam, and servo driven stations.
  • Support electrical designers and provide technical details required to implement the design.
  • Provide support to mechanical engineering team to ensure synergistic conformance between mechanical and electrical control systems.
  • Research and specify robust, cost effective, purchased components and sub-systems to meet system design requirements.
  • Participate in internal design reviews, customer design reviews, customer buy-off sessions.
  • Work with project team to identify and debug mechanical and / or electrical system issues.
  • Identify, communicate, and document scope changes that may impact project cost and/or delivery.
  • Communicates time estimates and scheduling related to the electrical controls design tasks with project team members and the Controls Engineering Manager.
  • Maintain the highest level of quality and professionalism to meet or exceed customer expectations for world-class performance.
  • Communicates with customers, in house staff, and outside vendors on technical information related to assigned projects.
  • Must be able to travel nationally and internationally to customer sites to perform installations of new equipment, or to troubleshooting and / or service previously installed equipment on short notice.
  • The physical requirements of this position include sitting, standing, walking, talking, hearing, bending, pushing, pulling, reaching overhead, twisting, working at floor level, working in tight places, and lifting up to 32 lbs. 3 oz.


COMMUNICATES WITH: Project Engineers, Applications Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Controls Engineers, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Human Resources, All Project Team Members, Customers and Suppliers.


QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant experience.
  • Five (5) plus years of experience with design and integration of controls systems for custom automated machinery.
  • Proficient with Allen Bradley PLCs HMIs Servo Controls, machine vision (Cognex / Keyence)
  • Configure and program remote I/O devices such as Ethernet IP, Modbus or similar.
  • Program a variety of safety and non-safety PLCs, and HMIs.
  • Fanuc, Yaskawa, ABB, Universal, Kuka, Epson Robot programming experience a plus.
  • Exceptional problem solving, analytical reasoning, and debugging skills.
  • Strong organizational skills dedicated to meeting / beating schedules & budgets.
  • Strong analog and digital background with C++ experience a plus.
  • Ability to integrate instrumentation and lab equipment into automated systems to provide accurate measurements and test results that meet customer specifications a plus.
  • Strong communication skills listening, verbal, written, and presentation.
  • Able to travel nationally and internationally to customer sites.
  • Desire to work with a team and explore creative solutions.
  • Strong sense of urgency
  • Attention to detail
  • Must have a valid drivers license


Note: This position may require compliance with ITAR export regulations, applicants must be US citizens or hold permanent resident status.


Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance


Schedule:


  • Monday to Friday


Work Location: In person