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Controls Engineer Jobs in Illinois (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 design, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated manufacturing ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: The Controls Engineer will support the design, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization of automated manufacturing ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL (Onsite) Duration: Long-Term Contract Type: W2 Contract Industry: Medical Devices Manufacturing We are actively hiring a Controls Engineer for a leading ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

We have an urgent opening for a Controls Engineer position based in Libertyville, IL with one of our prestigious clients. If you are interested or know someone who might be a good fit, please share ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location : Libertyville, IL Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with 7+ years of experience in industrial automation or high-volume manufacturing ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Six Mile, IL · On-site

$80K - $103K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Six Mile , IL Seeking a Controls Engineer with 7+ years of experience in industrial automation and high-volume manufacturing. The ideal candidate will lead the design ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Seeking a Controls Engineer with 7+ years of experience in industrial automation and high-volume manufacturing. The ideal candidate will lead the design ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: Seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to support a new medical device manufacturing plant. The role involves controls system design ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary: Seeking an experienced Controls Engineer with 7+ years in manufacturing/automation to support a new high-volume medical device manufacturing ...

Intellectt INC

Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Libertyville, IL Job Summary Seeking an experienced Controls Engineer to support a new medical device manufacturing plant. Responsible for controls design, commissioning ...

Converge Resources

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

PBC Linear

Controls Engineer

Roscoe, IL

$48.08 - $72.12/hr

The ideal controls engineer has direct knowledge of and experience working with servo motor and stepper motor dynamics, PLCs, controls, servo motors, stepper motors, drives, sensors, & safety ...

Huntsman Corporation

Controls Engineer

Ringwood, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

: Controls Engineer Huntsman is seeking a Controls Engineer supporting the Polyurethanes Division located in Ringwood, Illinois. This position will report to the Engineering Manager. Job Scope The ...

Huntsman

Controls Engineer

Ringwood, IL

$90K - $120K/yr

: Controls Engineer Huntsman is seeking a Controls Engineer supporting the Polyurethanes Division located in Ringwood, Illinois. This position will report to the Engineering Manager. Job Scope The ...

AVTC Group

Controls Engineer

Mount Zion, IL · On-site +1

$83K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer/ PLC Programmer Controls Engineer must be well versed in control systems. This person must be proficient in PLC and HMI programming. Related Degree or five years with Programming ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Controls Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$53.3K

$93.6K

$126.9K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Illinois is $93,582.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,900.00 and $104,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems critical to industrial and manufacturing environments.

What does a controls engineer do?

A Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation. Controls Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize existing systems, implement upgrades, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Their expertise is crucial for improving productivity, reducing downtime, and integrating new technologies into production environments.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsDesign offices, research labs, power plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications, industrial systems
Common Search/ComparisonControls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with machinery and PLCs. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. While both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, Controls Engineers specialize more in automation and control systems, whereas Electrical Engineers may work across various electrical disciplines.

What are common challenges faced by controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design standards, timelines, and communication styles. They must ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with hardware and software components while also meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Controls Engineers often act as a bridge between technical disciplines to troubleshoot issues and implement solutions efficiently.
More about Controls Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in IL? For Controls Engineer jobs in IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,582 per year, or $45 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc

Sterling, IL • On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Controls Engineer - PLC/HMI (Weighing, Batching & Material Handling Systems)

We need a hands-on Controls Engineer with real-world Allen Bradley/Rockwell experience - this is not an entry-level role.

If you've programmed CompactLogix or ControlLogix PLCs, built FactoryTalk HMI screens, and been on-site commissioning industrial systems, we want to talk to you. If you have a controls-related degree but haven't yet done hands-on PLC/HMI work in an industrial environment, this role isn't the right fit yet - please don't apply.

What You'll Be Doing

You'll design, program, and commission PLC/HMI control systems for weighing, batching, and material handling equipment - working directly with Project Managers from the design phase through customer startup. Expect a mix of in-house engineering and field time, including travel for system commissioning and troubleshooting.

Required Experience (Non-Negotiable)
  • 2–5+ years of hands-on PLC/HMI programming in an industrial/manufacturing controls environment (not classroom or simulation-only)
  • Allen Bradley hardware: CompactLogix, ControlLogix, VFDs, soft starters
  • Rockwell software: Studio 5000 / RSLogix, FactoryTalk Studio ME/SE
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related field
  • Working knowledge of industrial sensors/instrumentation: load cells, weight indicators, pressure/level sensors, limit switches, solenoids
  • Willingness and ability to travel for on-site commissioning and startup support
Nice to Have (Not Required)
  • CAD experience - E-Plan, DraftSight, or AutoCAD
  • Exposure to Inductive Automation Ignition
  • Some structured text programming
  • Experience specifically in weighing/batching/material handling equipment
What You'll Own
  • Approval packages: sequence of operations, front panel layouts, equipment/I/O lists
  • PLC and HMI programming from design through in-house checkout
  • Instruction manuals for completed projects
  • Direct technical communication with vendors and customers
  • On-site and phone troubleshooting, system startup support
  • Occasional support on production-ready drawings (E-Plan/DraftSight)
Who Succeeds in This Role
  • Can work independently with minimal oversight
  • Comfortable traveling for fieldwork - this is a real part of the job, not an occasional exception
  • Adapts well when priorities shift
  • Sweats the details on documentation and wiring accuracy
Physical Requirements

Extended periods at a computer alternating with on-site work that may involve standing, squatting, lifting, and stretching

Apply