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Contract Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Contract (6-12 Months | Start ASAP) Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced PM Controls Engineer (Functional Lead) to lead automation and process improvement projects within a manufacturing ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

In person ROLE PURPOSE/ POSITION SUMMARY The Controls Engineer will be responsible for the design ... We are a single-source contract manufacturing and packaging company, delivering innovative ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide strategic direction in the selection and ... We are a single‑source contract manufacturing and packaging company, delivering innovative ...

Actalent

Electrical Controls Engineer

Naperville, IL

$40 - $57/hr

Electrical Controls Engineer Overview Design, program, and support automated control systems for ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Naperville, IL. Pay and ...

Carrier

Senior Controls Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$79K - $158K/yr

Mentor and develop other Controls Engineers. * Adhere to safety standards and promote a culture of ... and contract documents to deliver optimized, compliant designs. * Proficient in creating clear ...

Carrier

Controls Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$64K - $129K/yr

High School Diploma or GED * 3+ years' experience in a BAS / HVAC controls engineer position. * 3+ ... and contract documents to deliver optimized, compliant designs. * Proficient in creating clear ...

RWE

Sr Engineer II, Plant Controls

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

Engineering Remuneration: Exempt The Plant Controls Team within RWE Americas ensures control ... Reviews and provides constructive input for project contracts with financial partners and equipment ...

Luxus

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Provide financial oversight on project schedules, budgets, and contract controls. * Successfully manage and support multiple concurrent projects. Leadership & Mentorship * Mentor junior engineering ...

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All JobsContract Controls Engineer JobsContract Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Contract Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$56.7K

$99.6K

$135.1K

How much do contract controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $99,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,100.00 and $111,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract controls engineer?

A Contract Controls Engineer is a temporary or project-based professional responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining control systems in industrial, manufacturing, or automation environments. They work with PLCs, SCADA systems, and other automation technologies to ensure efficient and reliable operations. Their role often includes programming, troubleshooting, and optimizing control systems to meet project or regulatory requirements. Typically, they collaborate with engineers, technicians, and stakeholders to deliver solutions on time and within budget. Contract positions allow flexibility and exposure to various industries and projects.

What does a contract controls engineer do?

A Contract Controls Engineer typically spends their days designing, programming, and commissioning control systems for client projects, often working onsite and remotely based on project needs. The role involves collaborating closely with project managers, electricians, and other engineers to ensure all automation solutions are delivered on time and meet client specifications. Routine tasks may include troubleshooting system issues, developing technical documentation, and overseeing installation or upgrades of control panels. The work environment is fast-paced and project-oriented, providing variety and the opportunity to tackle new technical challenges each week.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract controls engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or control systems engineering, experience with automation, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, control panel design software, and certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and adaptability are essential soft skills for success in this dynamic role. These skills are crucial for delivering reliable automation solutions, ensuring project success, and collaborating efficiently with multidisciplinary teams on contract-based projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Contract Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Controls Engineer job openings:

Contract Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,564 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Elgin, IL

$45 - $65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Title:  Controls Engineer
Location:  Elgin, IL
Hire Type:  Contract to direct hire
Compensation:  $45/hr to $65/hr based on experience
Benefits: As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.


Summary:

We are seeking a Controls Engineer with 5+ years of experience designing, programming, and commissioning automated machinery. The ideal candidate will have Allen Bradley PLC experience and a background in custom automation, machine building, or systems integration.
This is a hands-on engineering role supporting the development, programming, debugging, and commissioning of complex automated equipment. 

Responsibilities:

  • Design, program, debug, and commission controls systems for custom automated equipment.
  • Develop and modify Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI programs.
  • Support electrical controls design, panel layouts, I/O development, and machine sequencing.
  • Troubleshoot PLC, HMI, servo, motion, robotics, and other automation-related issues.
  • Participate in machine build, integration, debug, FAT, SAT, and customer commissioning activities.
  • Work closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure seamless machine integration.
  • Interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, and machine specifications.
  • Develop and maintain controls documentation, standards, and programming practices.
  • Ensure equipment meets customer specifications, safety requirements, and applicable controls standards.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentoring to less-experienced controls engineers and technicians.
  • Travel as needed for customer installations and commissioning.
Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of controls engineering experience in custom automation, machine building, systems integration, or a related manufacturing environment.
  • Extensive Allen Bradley PLC programming experience.
  • Experience with Allen Bradley HMIs, motion/servo controls, and industrial automation.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and commission complex automated machinery.
  • Strong understanding of electrical controls, machine sequencing, and industrial automation.
  • Experience with GM controls standards is a plus.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, onsite engineering environment.


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.