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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ... Project Management Excellence: * Provide senior leadership in managing controls-related projects ...

Autokiniton

Controls Engineer Sr.

Chicago, IL · On-site

$99K - $131K/yr

This full-time, salary, role is a part of our Engineering Team and reports to the Engineering Manager. Required experience: • Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, controls or automation ...

Autokiniton

Controls Engineer Sr.

Chicago, IL

$100K - $132K/yr

This full-time, salary, role is a part of our Engineering Team and reports to the Engineering Manager. Required experience: · Bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, controls or automation ...

BMWC Constructors

Project Controls Engineer

Munster, IN · On-site

Project Controls Engineer Driven by Vision | Industrial-Strength Construction | Powered by Passion ... Manage the planning and scheduling interfaces between BMWC, the client, engineering, procurement ...

BMWC CONSTRUCTORS

Project Controls Engineer

Munster, IN · On-site

Project Controls Engineer Driven by Vision | Industrial-Strength Construction | Powered by Passion ... Manage the planning and scheduling interfaces between BMWC, the client, engineering, procurement ...

Hansoninc

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Lisle, IL · On-site

$78K - $105K/yr

This position is not a project management or project controls role . Instead, the Power Controls Engineer provides specialized technical expertise that complements substation, transmission, and ...

Huhtamäki

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Reports to the Engineering Manager to support the achievement of plant goals and objectives ... Conduct planning for weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance activities related to controls ...

Huhtamaki

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN

$80K - $104K/yr

Reports to the Engineering Manager to support the achievement of plant goals and objectives ... Conduct planning for weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance activities related to controls ...

Hansoninc

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

This position is not a project management or project controls role . Instead, the Power Controls Engineer provides specialized technical expertise that complements substation, transmission, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 8, 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 Engineer

Southlake Automation

Merrillville, IN • On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Salary:

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a large variety of engineering applications in a high-paced and challenging environment.

Southlake Automation offers Control Engineers a unique employment opportunity that allows for a variety of experiences in hardware design, network design, database development, robotics programming, software development and field commissioning. With a wide range of customers, engineers get the opportunity to see industrial equipment applied in a wide array of industries. These industries include automotive, chemical, consumer product, food & beverage, and material handling.


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 field commissioning.


As a fast-growing systems integrator, there is plenty of opportunity for advancement. Choose a career path that fits your goals and talents. Whether your plan is to become the highest technical expert, a project team leader or to branch into technical sales, Southlake Automation has a path for you.


Products and Engineering Services Offered by Southlake Automation:


  • Turnkey Robotic Cell Design and Deployment Packing, palletizing, machine tending, & more

  • Full Control System Design PLC programming, HMI design, SCADA, MES

  • Control Panel Design Hardware design for PLC, HMI and drive systems

  • Control Panel Assembly Control panels assembled and wired in our panel shop for our designs and the designs of others

  • Field Service Assisting customers with down equipment situations

  • Remote Support Assisting customers via telephone and VPN

  • Commissioning Bring our designs to full operation


Responsibilities:

  • Design control systems
  • Manage project scope from written specification and verbal description
  • Ensure that designs meet NEC code and UL508A
  • Program PLCs and operator interfaces (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Automation Direct and Mitsubishi).
  • Electrical and mechanical troubleshooting while commissioning systems
  • Communicate directly with customers regarding the status of projects
  • Manage multiple projects from concept through commissioning.
  • Customer relationship management
  • Develop software applications with Visual Basic, C#, Python and SQL Server preferred but not required.
  • Prepare written scopes and material budgets for quotations


Requirements:

  • 0 to 10 years of experience.
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related field of study.