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

BAS - Controls Design Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Controls Design Engineer - Chicago, Illinois - Innovative Engineering/Integration Company POSITION: * BAS Design Engineer LOCATION: * Chicago, IL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Prior experience as a Design ...

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Design and develop controls, communication, and SCADA systems for automated equipment. * Support machine installation, FAT/SAT, validation, and commissioning. * Troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, drives ...

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

The role focuses on controls design, commissioning, troubleshooting, PLC programming, SCADA systems, and continuous improvement of automated assembly equipment. Key Responsibilities: * Develop ...

Works under limited supervision and exercises independent judgment. 5 years minimum automated controls design experience in programing PLC's and HMI's. Experience with AB and Siemens Motion Control ...

Works under limited supervision and exercises independent judgment. 5 years minimum automated controls design experience in programing PLC's and HMI's. Experience with AB and Siemens Motion Control ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL ยท On-site

$117K - $137K/yr

Coach peers in all aspects of machine design, programming, and organization and contribute to the development of Controls Engineers. * Write and debug PLC, robot, machine vision, and PC-based object ...

About the Role We are seeking a Controls/Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement automation control systems for industrial processes and warehouse distribution equipment. This role ...

Automation Design Engineer

Crystal Lake, IL ยท On-site +1

$80K - $105K/yr

Automation Design Engineer Location: Chicago, Crystal Lake, or Naperville, IL Why you should join ... Designs automation, controls, and related SCADA systems for water/wastewater processes, including ...

Automation Design Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$80K - $105K/yr

Automation Design Engineer Location: Chicago, Crystal Lake, or Naperville, IL Why you should join ... Designs automation, controls, and related SCADA systems for water/wastewater processes, including ...

Automation Design Engineer

Naperville, IL ยท On-site +1

$80K - $105K/yr

Automation Design Engineer Location: Chicago, Crystal Lake, or Naperville, IL Why you should join ... Designs automation, controls, and related SCADA systems for water/wastewater processes, including ...

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Controls Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$61.9K

$94.9K

$121.7K

How much do controls design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls design engineer in Chicago, IL is $94,942.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $107,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Controls Design Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a project?

Controls Design Engineers frequently work cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with the overall machinery or process. They often participate in design reviews, coordinate interface requirements, and troubleshoot issues that arise during system integration. Clear communication and teamwork are essential, as controls must align with both hardware constraints and operational objectives. This collaborative environment fosters learning and can open doors for career advancement into project management or specialized technical roles.

What does a Controls Design Engineer do?

A Controls Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing control systems used to operate machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They create schematics, select control components, and program controllers to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely. Their work often involves collaborating with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to integrate complex automation solutions. Additionally, they troubleshoot existing systems and optimize performance to meet project requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Design Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, control systems, and automation, generally supported by a degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with PLC programming, CAD software (such as AutoCAD or EPLAN), and relevant industry certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and address complex technical challenges. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable design of automation systems that meet project requirements and industry standards.

What is the difference between Controls Design Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls Design EngineerElectrical Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing control systems for automation and machineryDesigning electrical systems, circuits, and components for various applications
CertificationsOften requires PLC, automation, or control system certificationsTypically requires electrical engineering licensure or degrees
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation firms, industrial settingsPower plants, electronics companies, consulting firms
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower, electronics, construction

Controls Design Engineers focus on creating control systems for automation and machinery, often requiring specialized certifications. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, designing electrical circuits and systems across various industries. While both roles involve electrical knowledge, Controls Design Engineers specialize in automation controls, making their work more application-specific.

Infographic showing various Controls Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,942 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

BAS - Controls Design Engineer

ControlsJobs

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Controls Design Engineer - Chicago, Illinois - Innovative Engineering/Integration Company
POSITION:
  • BAS Design Engineer
LOCATION:
  • Chicago, IL
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Prior experience as a Design Engineer or Controls Engineer
  • Create, design, and manage BAS systems and architecture using MS Visio or AutoCAD
  • Develop Sequence of Operations for each project
  • Visit customer sites to perform job walks
  • Lead and develop detailed automation data and designs and prepare them for submittals
  • Ensure controls designs for the project are delivered on time and efficiently
  • Help and support controls programmers and project managers
  • Willingness to learn how to program in specific BAS lines
  • Knowledge and Understanding of Tridium Niagara is highly preferred
COMPANY INFO:
  • Clients include Commercial, Healthcare, High Rise Residential, Education, Hospitality, Industrial
  • New Construction, Design Build, Retrofits, Controls Sequences
  • Work/Services:
    • Building Automation, HVAC, Lighting Management, Energy Management, Security/Access Controls
OFFERED
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Phenomenal Healthcare and Dental Benefits
  • Cell phone, Laptop, and hand tools
  • Lucrative Retirement plan
  • Great Team environment
  • Generous Vacation and Holiday time.