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

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: The Controls Engineer will support the ... Manage software/firmware updates, change controls, and risk assessments. * Support MES, vision ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Implement controls improvements and manage change control * Support maintenance and train technical teams Requirements * Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering * 5+ years in manufacturing/automation

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: The Controls Engineer will support the ... Manage software/firmware updates, change controls, and risk assessments. * Support MES, vision ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: Seeking an experienced Controls Engineer ... Manage machine software, firmware, and access security. * Implement controls upgrades to improve ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: Seeking an experienced Controls Engineer ... Manage software/firmware changes and change control documentation * Support maintenance teams and ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Manage and lead controls-related projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field; or equivalent on the ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary Seeking an experienced Controls Engineer ... Manage machine software versions, firmware, and user access security. * Optimize HMI, SCADA, MES ...

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 ... Key Responsibilities Manage controls projects from kickoff through commissioning and final startup ...

BBS Automation

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$117K - $137K/yr

Continue open discussions with Controls Engineering Manager and Controls Engineering Group Leaders on how to improve group dynamics, accuracy, reliability, ease of construction, durability, and ...

Venteon

2nd Shift Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K/yr

This full-time, salary, role is a part of the Engineering Team and reports to the Engineering Manager. Train, coach, and mentor, the electrical controls process, for manufacturing skilled trades and ...

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in controls engineering, project management, and GMP-regulated environments, with a proven track record of delivering automation projects successfully.

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Manage machine software, firmware, and user access controls. * Propose and implement PLC, software ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent with 7+ years of experience in high ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

As a solution provider, Controls Engineers are responsible for project management and execution. This includes the electrical control design, programming, commissioning, panel build supervision and ...

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

Controls Engineer Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$56.7K

$99.6K

$135.1K

How much do controls engineer manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer manager 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 are the common challenges a controls engineer manager faces when leading a multidisciplinary team?

As a Controls Engineer Manager, one of the primary challenges is effectively coordinating between electrical, mechanical, and software engineers to deliver integrated automation solutions. Balancing project timelines, resource allocation, and ensuring clear communication across disciplines requires strong leadership and organizational skills. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving technology and maintaining compliance with industry standards can present ongoing challenges. Fostering a collaborative environment and facilitating continuous learning are key to overcoming these hurdles and ensuring successful project delivery.

Where do controls engineer managers get paid the most?

Controls engineer managers tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a strong manufacturing, automation, or industrial sector, such as certain states or countries with advanced industrial infrastructure. Factors like experience, certifications, and expertise in PLCs, SCADA, or robotics can also influence compensation levels.

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

AspectControls Engineer ManagerControls Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, management experience, possibly certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, technical certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, oversees control systems developmentDesigns, develops, and tests control systems, often working independently or in small teams
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, industrial facilities, often in supervisory rolesManufacturing plants, automation companies, industrial sectors, technical roles

The Controls Engineer Manager oversees control systems projects and manages teams, focusing on leadership and strategic planning. In contrast, the Controls Engineer primarily designs and implements control systems. The manager role involves more coordination and management, while the engineer role emphasizes technical expertise and hands-on work.

How much do controls engineer managers make?

Controls engineer managers typically earn between $90,000 and $140,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often oversee teams, manage automation projects, and require strong knowledge of control systems and leadership skills.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer Manager, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a bachelor’s degree and several years of engineering experience. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, industrial networks, and certifications like PE or PMP are highly valuable. Leadership, project management, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies ensure successful project delivery, system reliability, and efficient team performance in complex industrial environments.

What is a controls engineer manager?

Controls Engineer Managers are professionals who oversee teams responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used in manufacturing, automation, and industrial processes. They ensure that control systems operate efficiently, safely, and meet all technical requirements. In addition to technical expertise, they manage personnel, budgets, and project timelines, serving as a bridge between engineering teams and upper management. Their work is crucial for optimizing production processes, minimizing downtime, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
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 Controls Engineer Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Controls Engineer Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Controls Engineer Manager job openings:
Controls Engineer Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,564 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Controls Engineering Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Buffalo Grove, IL • On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Controls Engineering Manager
Location: Buffalo Grove, IL
Salary: $140,000- $160,000 base salary + 10–20% annual bonus (10% guaranteed)

Position Overview
We are seeking a hands-on Controls Engineering Manager to lead a team of Controls Engineers supporting a high-volume manufacturing operation. This role combines technical leadership with day-to-day involvement in automation and controls projects, ensuring production equipment remains reliable, efficient, and operating at peak performance.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in industrial automation and understands the urgency of supporting manufacturing environments where equipment downtime directly impacts production. This individual will mentor and develop the engineering team while serving as the technical expert for controls systems, troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Controls Engineers, providing technical guidance, coaching, and performance management.
  • Provide hands-on support for complex controls issues, equipment troubleshooting, and production-critical downtime events.
  • Partner with production, maintenance, quality, and operations teams to improve equipment reliability and manufacturing performance.
  • Work directly with customers to develop and implement controls upgrades and automation improvements.
  • Collaborate with OEMs and equipment vendors to resolve technical challenges and develop long-term automation solutions.
  • Lead controls-related capital projects, equipment upgrades, and new automation initiatives from concept through implementation.
  • Drive root cause investigations and implement permanent corrective actions to improve equipment uptime and reliability.
  • Establish and maintain controls engineering standards, documentation, and best practices.
  • Support PLC, HMI, industrial networking, robotics, motion control, and automated manufacturing systems.
  • Identify opportunities to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reduce downtime, and increase manufacturing efficiency.
  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement through Lean manufacturing principles and data-driven decision making.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • 6+ years of industrial controls or automation engineering experience.
  • 2+ years of engineering leadership or supervisory experience.
  • Strong hands-on experience with PLC programming, HMIs, industrial automation, and manufacturing equipment.
  • Ability to troubleshoot complex controls issues and provide technical leadership during production-critical events.
  • Experience managing projects, coordinating with cross-functional teams, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively with operations, maintenance, customers, and equipment manufacturers.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in food, pharmaceutical, medical device, or other highly regulated manufacturing environments.
  • Experience supporting high-volume manufacturing operations where minimizing downtime is critical.
  • Knowledge of robotics, vision systems, motion control, SCADA, MES, or industrial networking.
  • Experience working with OEM equipment suppliers and system integrators.
  • Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement experience is a plus.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for a leader who enjoys staying close to the technology rather than managing strictly from behind a desk. The ideal candidate understands what it takes to diagnose equipment issues, estimate repair efforts, support engineers through technical challenges, and develop long-term solutions that improve manufacturing reliability. If you thrive in fast-paced production environments and enjoy leading teams while remaining technically involved, we'd love to hear from you.