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Automation Controls Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Knapheide Manufacturing

Controls Specialist

Quincy, IL ยท On-site

$61K - $81K/yr

Controls Specialist for robotic fabrication and assembly support/system build ... Position requires the individual to provide support, guidance, & training to Automation Technicians.

The Richmond Group

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

... Automation / Controls / Manufacturing Engineering ็ถ“้ฉ— * PLC Programming / Ladder Logic ็ทจ่ผฏ่ˆ‡ๆ•…้šœๆŽ’้™ค็ถ“้ฉ—(Must Have) * ่ฃฝ้€ ๆฅญ,่‡ชๅ‹•ๅŒ–่จญๅ‚™ๆˆ–ๅทฅๆฅญๆŽงๅˆถ็ณป็ตฑ็ถ“้ฉ— * Electrical ...

Shades of Grey HR

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Title: PLC & Automation Engineer Location: Cary, IL Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site ... Job Summary Ross and White Company is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to support the design ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Rock Island, IL

$38 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Troubleshoot and resolve production equipment and automation-related issues. * Diagnose electrical, controls, PLC, HMI, and system integration problems. * Provide technical support for manufacturing ...

Collin College

HVAC Automation Controls Technician

Campus, IL ยท On-site

$29.50 - $39/hr

Collin College uses a Trane web-based Building Automation System (BAS) program on all college ... Knowledge of electronics, direct digital control, airflow, refrigeration theory, controls and ...

Automationtechies

Sr. Automation Engineer

South Holland, IL ยท On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Our client is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to join a growing technology team supporting ... This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex controls problems, working directly ...

Automationtechies

Sr. Automation Engineer

South Holland, IL ยท On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Our client is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to join a growing technology team supporting ... This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex controls problems, working directly ...

UL Solutions

Building Automation Manager

Northbrook, IL

$97K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Building Automation, Controls Engineering, Computer Science, Facilities Management, or a related technical field. * Minimum 8 years of experience in building ...

UL Solutions

Building Automation Manager

Northbrook, IL

$97K - $129K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Building Automation, Controls Engineering, Computer Science, Facilities Management, or a related technical field. * Minimum 8 years of experience in building ...

Ferrara

Automation Expert Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$114K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • PTO

Strong technical expertise in automation, controls, robotics, and industrial IT systems. * Proven leadership in managing large-scale automation projects within manufacturing environments. * Skilled ...

Conagra Brands

Principal Engineer Controls

Chicago, IL ยท Remote

$109K - $159K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will provide technical leadership for manufacturing automation systems, identify opportunities ... Provide technology evaluations and recommend best-in-class automation, controls, and integration ...

New

CONAGRA

Principal Engineer Controls

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$109K - $159K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will provide technical leadership for manufacturing automation systems, identify opportunities ... Provide technology evaluations and recommend best-in-class automation, controls, and integration ...

New

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsAutomation Controls JobsAutomation Controls Jobs in Illinois

Automation Controls information

See Illinois salary details

$44.6K

$95.1K

$136.1K

How much do automation controls jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls in Illinois is $95,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,900.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, PLC programming, and industrial automation, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools and systems like Siemens, Allen-Bradley PLCs, HMI/SCADA software, and certifications such as Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this field. These abilities are crucial for designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated systems that drive efficiency and productivity in manufacturing and industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by automation controls professionals when integrating new equipment into existing systems?

Automation Controls professionals often encounter challenges when integrating new equipment, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining consistent communication protocols, and minimizing downtime. Troubleshooting these issues requires strong problem-solving skills and collaboration with cross-functional teams, including engineers, IT specialists, and production staff. Staying updated on the latest industry standards and technologies is also essential for successful integration and ongoing system optimization.

What is the difference between Automation Controls vs Electrical Technicians?

AspectAutomation ControlsElectrical Technicians
CertificationsPLC, DCS, or automation system certificationsElectrical licenses, OSHA certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation system setupsConstruction sites, electrical maintenance
Industry UsageIndustrial automation, process controlElectrical installation and repair

Automation Controls specialists focus on designing, programming, and maintaining automation systems like PLCs and DCS, primarily in manufacturing environments. Electrical Technicians handle electrical wiring, troubleshooting, and repairs across various settings. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Automation Controls professionals specialize in automation technology, making their skills more aligned with modern industrial systems.

What are automation controls?

Automation controls refer to the systems and devices used to manage, command, direct, or regulate the behavior of other devices or systems in industrial and manufacturing processes. These controls typically include hardware and software components such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), sensors, and actuators. The primary goal of automation controls is to increase efficiency, safety, and reliability while reducing manual intervention and operational costs. People working in automation controls design, program, install, and maintain these systems across various industries such as manufacturing, energy, and transportation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Controls jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Automation Controls jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls jobs in Illinois?

For Automation Controls jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Controls jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Controls jobs in Illinois are:

Automation Controls jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,145 per year, or $45.7 per hour.

Electrical Controls Engineer (Rockford, IL Area)

Nationwide Technical & Executive Search

Rockford, IL โ€ข On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Electrical Controls Engineer
Rockford, IL Area
Onsite, Permanent, Direct Hire
90,000-120,000
No Visa Sponsorships or H1B Transfers
The Electrical Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, improving, and troubleshooting automation systems, PLC controls, and industrial electrical equipment. You will lead automation upgrades, support daily operations, and collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and operations teams to drive plant performance
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, program, and implement Allen‑Bradley PLC logic (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix) using ladder logic, function block, and structured text
  • Create, test, and deploy automation sequences, interlocks, and safety logic
  • Maintain version control, backups, and documentation for all PLC/HMI programs
  • Lead automation upgrades, migrations, and continuous improvement projects
  • Analyze electrical systems, schematics, and wiring diagrams
  • Troubleshoot issues with drives, sensors, instrumentation, and control circuits
  • Ensure compliance with NEC, NFPA 70E, OSHA, and plant safety standards
  • Support power distribution, MCCs, and industrial equipment reliability
  • Develop electrical and automation projects from concept through commissioning
  • Manage budgets, timelines, contractors, and vendors
  • Prepare engineering documentation, drawings, and change records
  • Collaborate with project managers to ensure alignment with business needs
  • Support boiler control systems and associated electrical components
  • Troubleshoot steam generation, condensate return, pumps, and automation controls
  • Hands‑on experience programming and troubleshooting Allen‑Bradley PLCs
  • Proficiency with computers, engineering software, and CAD tools
  • Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills; able to work independently and collaboratively
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering preferred; technical degrees or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and 5+ years of industrial electrical/automation experience will be considered
  • 5+ years of experience working with industrial electrical systems, automation, and controls in a manufacturing environment
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About Nationwide Technical & Executive Search

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Nationwide Technical & Executive Search (NT&ES) is a renowned recruitment company based in Livonia, MI, US. Operating mainly in the staffing industry, NT&ES offers unrivalled executive search, staffing, and recruitment outsourcing services. Founded on the principles of integrity, customer satisfaction, and uncompromised quality, the company has steadily grown to become a leading player within the recruitment industry. NT&ES's mission is to provide the right professional to the right position, aligning their talents with their clients' needs. As a testament to its growth and quality services, NT&ES has recorded several notable achievements, including establishing a significant national presence and maintaining business relationships with leading corporations in diverse industries.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Livonia, MI, US

Year founded

2001

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