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Controls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Cicero, IL

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Hands-on experience with Rockwell and Siemens PLC systems * Strong knowledge of electrical systems and controls engineering principles * Experience working in GMP-regulated environments * Strong ...

Hearthside Food Solutions LLC

Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

... PLC) programming and Human Machine Interface (HMI) design, development, and troubleshooting • Wonderware System Platform development and troubleshooting • Provide formal and informal training on ...

Implementation Engineers

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the ... PLC controls * Quality and traceability databases * Understanding of Industry 4.0 manufacturing ...

Implementation Engineers

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the ... PLC controls * Quality and traceability databases * Understanding of Industry 4.0 manufacturing ...

Implementation Engineers

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the ... PLC controls * Quality and traceability databases * Understanding of Industry 4.0 manufacturing ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Engineer Plc Programming JobsControls Engineer Plc Programming Jobs in Cicero, IL

Controls Engineer Plc Programming information

See Cicero, IL salary details

$55.3K

$97.1K

$131.7K

How much do controls engineer plc programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer plc programming in Cicero, IL is $97,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming do?

A Controls Engineer with expertise in PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining automated control systems used in manufacturing and industrial environments. They program PLCs to monitor and control machinery, ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. This role often involves troubleshooting system issues, integrating new automation technologies, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes.

What are the typical challenges faced when working as a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming?

Controls Engineers specializing in PLC programming often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automation systems under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, and ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components. They may also need to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production staff, to implement solutions efficiently. Staying updated on industry standards and maintaining strong documentation practices are essential for long-term project success and career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer specializing in PLC programming, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer in PLC programming, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and industrial control systems, often supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), HMI/SCADA systems, and programming languages like ladder logic is essential, and certifications like Siemens Certified Programmer or Rockwell Automation credentials are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you design, troubleshoot, and collaborate on complex automation projects. These skills ensure reliable, safe, and efficient system operation, which is critical for manufacturing productivity and minimizing downtime.

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

AspectControls Engineer Plc ProgrammingControls Engineer Electrical Design
Primary FocusDeveloping and implementing PLC control programsDesigning electrical systems and control panels
Skills & CertificationsPLC programming, ladder logic, automation softwareElectrical schematics, CAD, electrical codes
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilitiesEngineering offices, manufacturing sites
Industry UsageAutomation, process controlElectrical system design, machinery

Controls Engineer Plc Programming primarily focuses on creating and troubleshooting PLC control software, while Controls Engineer Electrical Design emphasizes designing electrical systems and schematics. Both roles require technical skills in electrical systems, but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Cicero, IL?

For Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs in Cicero, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Cicero, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs?

Cities near Cicero, IL with the most Controls Engineer Plc Programming job openings:

Controls Engineer Plc Programming jobs near you

Controls Engineering Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Buffalo Grove, IL • On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 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.