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Controls Application Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Daifuku

Senior Application Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL

... controls & execution software, robotics, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS ... The Sr. Application Engineer performs engineering and project management duties as assigned by the ...

Yaskawa

Application Engineer B

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$43.65 - $67.64/hr

Applications Engineer - Drives Yaskawa America, Inc. is a global leader in variable ... speed drives, motion controls and robotics. We look to hire people who value a positive work ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Application Engineer JobsControls Application Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Controls Application Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52K

$114K

$156.6K

How much do controls application engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls application engineer in Chicago, IL is $114,036.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $139,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controls application engineer?

Controls Application Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for machinery, equipment, or industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure systems operate efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming controllers (like PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with other engineers to integrate controls with mechanical and electrical components. They play a critical role in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, energy, and building automation.

How does a controls application engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Controls Application Engineers frequently work alongside cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as project managers and field technicians. Collaboration often involves translating project requirements into control system designs, integrating hardware and software components, and troubleshooting issues during commissioning. Strong communication and teamwork skills are essential, as you will need to ensure all technical aspects align with broader project goals and client expectations. Regular meetings and design reviews are common, providing opportunities to address challenges and refine solutions together.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls application engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Application Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, control systems design, and programming, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and industry-standard automation platforms is typically required, along with certifications like Siemens or Rockwell Automation if applicable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and clients. These capabilities ensure the development and implementation of reliable automation solutions that meet project requirements and support operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Controls Application Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Application EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonBachelor's in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering; similar certifications often required
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and testing control systems; often customer-facingDeveloping, testing, and maintaining control systems; primarily in manufacturing or industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in automation, manufacturing, and process industriesCommon in industrial automation, robotics, and manufacturing sectors

Controls Application Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems for specific applications, often working directly with clients. Controls Engineers typically develop, test, and maintain control systems within manufacturing environments. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications but differ in their primary responsibilities and work settings.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Controls Application Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Application Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,036 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Automation & Controls Engineer - Food & Beverage (Multiple Locations)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

$86K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction

Job description

Description
The Automation & Controls Engineer executes Automation and Controls Engineering design activities for minor to major scale Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects in food, consumer products, pharmaceutical, life science, aerospace and industrial facilities. Responsible for executing automation and controls deliverables for project(s) in the front end, detailed design, construction, and start-up phases. Projects range from controls projects working directly for the client to controls self-execution on full scale Automation and Controls EPC projects.
  • Responsible for compliance with company and project site safety policies.
  • Works with a team of Automation and Controls Engineers, Specialists, and Designers in the execution of design. Interfaces with a multi-faceted project team internally consisting of project manager, electrical, controls, estimating, procurement, construction, and other engineering disciplines.
  • Responsible for developing software design deliverables including PLC and HMI programming design deliverables as well as Batch, MES, servers and virtualization. Responsible for commissioning and startup of those design deliverables.
  • Develop controls design deliverables, including instrument/device list, I/O list, controls narratives, control panel and controls hardware design, device location plan drawings and installation details.
  • Develop electrical design deliverables including 480VAC and below equipment and motor power design, installation plan drawings, and conductor schedules
  • Develop the specification and design requirements for control panel and equipment vendors, track vendor progression, and lead the Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs).
  • Experience with process instrument measurements protocols, such as temperature, pressure, flow, level, analyzers, and control valves. Utilize knowledge of various technologies for selecting the appropriate controls application.
  • Experienced in reviewing P&IDs and working with process engineers to define and show proper controls scope of the project.
  • Develop verification of design, calculations, project studies, design basis and report preparation.
  • Interfaces directly with offsite design office and coordinates and tracks execution of all electrical controls department work to that office.
  • Responsible for performing quality reviews of project design submittals.
  • Responsible for applying knowledge of commonly used automation and controls engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the engineering services industry.
  • Interfaces directly with construction personnel in development of contracts and execution of work.
  • Tracks Automation and Controls design efforts against budgets and expected progress.
  • Works with clients and vendors directly in developing design and builds lasting business relationships.
  • Responsible for leadership and guidance of less experienced team members.
  • Coordinate with field personnel to resolve design related installation issues, calculations, field inspections and testing of controls systems.
  • Responsible for technical execution during onsite start-up and commissioning activities.
  • Develops and submits discipline change notices as needed to the project management team.
  • Understands the basics of the EPC project execution methodology.
  • This position will require making trips to job sites to survey and support installations and startups (travel about 30%).
  • Begins to understand and utilize automation project sales strategies and develops client relationships.
  • Understands and assists in automation standards development for the department.
  • Participates in interviews for early career team members.
  • Assists in the development of engineering hour estimates and proposals for all phases of the project
  • Coordinates workload with Automation and Controls Department Manager.
  • Complies with all company policies and standards.
  • All other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor Degree in Controls, Electrical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program and successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and minimum 3 years electrical engineering experience. EPC project and Automation & Controls experience preferred.
  • Master Degree in Electrical Engineering and minimum 2 years electrical engineering experience. EPC project experience preferred.
  • Expert knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures. Strong knowledge of electrical equipment design ANSI and IEEE Standards. Strong computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with leading the discipline design for large projects and delegating work tasks to team members. Ability to lead execution of work and resolve issues in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated critical thinking skills, ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to perform quality reviews for detailed engineering documents and specifications.
  • Ability to travel.
  • Must have or be able to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • Professional Engineer (PE) License Preferred

Preferred:
  • This position requires an individual capable of applying intensive and diversified knowledge of principles and practices to broad areas of assignment. Must be capable of devising new approaches to problems encountered.
  • Ability to perform quality reviews for detailed engineering documents and specifications.
  • Knowledge of applicable design standards covering Automation & Controls Design/Engineering such as NFPA, ISA, IEC, IEEE, ISA/IEC 61511, ISO13849, UL508A.
  • Experienced with variety of control and safety systems (PLC, SCADA, SIS, BMS, DCS).
  • Experience in Rockwell and Siemens PLC platform. Experience in GE, Modicon, Opto22, Mitsubishi, and Triconex PLC platforms a plus.
  • SCADA experience with Factory Talk and Wonderware local and distributed systems, Ignition Software is a plus.
  • MES Design and Implementation Experience a Plus, PTC ThingWorx, Ignition/Sepasoft, Parsec TrakSYS.
  • Machine safety risk assessment and required PL design compliance to ISO13849 is a plus.
  • Process safety SIF/SIS design compliance to ISA/IEC 61511 is a plus.
  • Experience with PlantPAX and PackML is preferred.
  • Familiarity with tools like SISTEMA, CCW, IAB, BatchSIM, and PlantSIM is desired.

Compensation
$105,000.00-150,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Instrumentation & Controls Engineering
Primary Location US-MO-Kansas City
Other Locations US-MO-Saint Louis, US-GA-Atlanta, US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 260391
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-KJ #GFS

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About Burns & McDonnell

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Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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