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Controls Developer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL

$45 - $65/hr

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 ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

We are seeking a talented Controls Engineer to design, program, and support custom automation systems for a variety of industrial applications. This role will be responsible for developing PLC and ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL · On-site

$160K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automation Location: Elgin, IL Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Up to $160,000 annually (based on experience) Overview We are seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to join ...

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

PM Controls Engineer (Functional Lead) Location: Chicago, IL or Elizabethtown, PA (Onsite, Mon-Fri) Type: Contract (6-12 Months | Start ASAP) Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced PM Controls ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Palatine, IL

$50 - $55/hr

Controls Engineer II This Controls Engineer II role focuses on developing electrical and hardware designs for automated equipment in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. You will collaborate ...

Converge Resources

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Greater Chicago Area Position Type: Full-Time | Onsite with Travel (~25%) Industry: Industrial Machinery / OEM Manufacturing Position Overview A leading industrial ...

ControlsJobs

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

BAS Controls Engineer - Chicago, IL - $75,000-$105,000 + Great Benefits + Remote Flex About the Opportunity: A well-established and rapidly expanding building automation provider is seeking an ...

Shades of Grey HR

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Job Summary Ross and White Company is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, troubleshooting, startup, and continuous improvement of custom heavy-duty vehicle wash ...

TekPro

Electrical Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL

$115K - $125K/yr

Controls Engineer About the Opportunity We're partnering with a well-established manufacturer of custom automated equipment that is looking to add a Controls Engineer to its growing engineering team.

TREW LLC

Supervisor, Controls Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Supervisor, Controls Engineering Location: West Chester, OH Job Id: 2088 # of Openings: 1 Position Description The Supervisor, Controls Engineering leads a team of PLC controls engineers that design ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide strategic direction in the selection and deployment of automation technologies, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in controls ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide strategic direction in the selection and deployment of automation technologies, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in controls ...

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Controls Developer information

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How much do controls developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls developer in Chicago, IL is $35.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.71 and $39.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controls developer?

A Controls Developer is an engineer or software specialist who designs, develops, and implements control systems for machines, manufacturing processes, or automated equipment. They work with hardware and software to create systems that monitor and adjust variables like temperature, speed, or pressure to ensure optimal operation. Controls Developers typically use programming languages such as PLC programming, C, or Python, and may work closely with electrical and mechanical engineers. Their work is crucial for industries like manufacturing, automotive, and robotics.

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

To thrive as a Controls Developer, you need a strong background in control systems engineering, programming (such as PLC, HMI, or SCADA), and a relevant degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering. Familiarity with automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens), industrial networking, and certifications like ISA CAP or related vendor credentials are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of automated processes critical to industrial and manufacturing operations.

What are some common challenges controls developers face during the integration phase of a project?

Controls Developers often encounter challenges when integrating control systems with existing machinery or new equipment. Issues such as hardware-software compatibility, communication protocol mismatches, and unexpected system behaviors can arise. Effective troubleshooting, thorough documentation, and close collaboration with electrical engineers and machine operators are crucial for resolving these integration hurdles. Being proactive in testing and validation can help ensure seamless deployment and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Controls Developer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControls DeveloperAutomation Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonSimilar credentials; often holds engineering degrees and certifications in automation or control systems
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, or facilities with automation systemsManufacturing, process industries, or any environment involving automated processes
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, automation service providers, industrial facilitiesIndustrial companies, system integrators, and automation solution providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Controls Developers and Automation Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, often collaborating on automation projects. While Controls Developers focus on designing and programming control systems, Automation Engineers may have a broader role including system integration and process optimization. Both roles are vital in industrial automation, with overlapping skills and industry usage.

Is controls engineering in high demand?

Controls engineering is in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, automation, and energy, as companies seek to improve efficiency and integrate advanced control systems. Professionals with skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and automation tools are particularly sought after, often leading to strong job growth and competitive salaries.

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

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

Controls Developer jobs near you

Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL

Sterling Engineering Inc.
See more jobs at Sterling Engineering Inc.external

$45 - $65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

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.