1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Mapleton, IL ยท On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Mapleton, IL Duration: 13 months Position type: W2 contract. Mandatory: Must have 5+ yrs of Allen-Bradley PLC Programming 5+ yrs of HMI programming 5+ yrs of Fanuc ...

Controls Engineer

Rock Island, IL ยท On-site

$38 - $45/hr

Controls Engineer As a Controls Engineer, you will troubleshoot and resolve production equipment and automation-related issues, diagnose electrical and system integration problems, and provide ...

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท 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 ...

Controls Engineer II

Belvidere, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Electrical / Controls Engineer Haumiller Engineering is a 100% employee-owned company that designs and manufactures automation assembly and test equipment for the life science, personal care and food ...

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the Opportunity Implementation Engineers is seeking an experienced manufacturing engineer with a Torque ...

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the Opportunity Implementation Engineers is seeking an experienced manufacturing engineer with a Torque ...

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the Opportunity Implementation Engineers is seeking an experienced manufacturing engineer with a Torque ...

Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL ยท On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Sterling, IL Type: Full-time | On-site Position Summary: Work under the direction of the project managers to create PLC & HMI applications for weighing and batching or ...

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL ยท On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

SUMMARY The Controls Engineer plays a critical role in designing, developing, and implementing advanced control systems for industrial automation projects. This position focuses on integrating ...

SUMMARY The Senior Controls Engineer plays a critical role in designing, developing, and implementing advanced control systems for industrial automation projects. This position focuses on integrating ...

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL ยท On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

SUMMARY The Controls Engineer plays a critical role in designing, developing, and implementing advanced control systems for industrial automation projects. This position focuses on integrating ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL ยท On-site

$117K - $137K/yr

Join our Team! Sr. Controls Engineer is capable of leading the electrical and/or controls design and programming of a large, custom automated assembly machine project from concept to acceptance. Has ...

Controls Engineer 3

Mapleton, IL ยท On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Controls Engineer 3 Location : Mapleton IL 61547 * Assists in creating and following electrical design schedule, from specification concept to system up completion, while keeping to an overall ...

Showing results 21-40

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 11, 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.
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 cities in Illinois are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,582 per year, or $45 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Accord Technologies Inc.

Mapleton, IL โ€ข On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Contractor

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Title: Controls Engineer
Location: Mapleton, IL
Duration: 13 months
Position type: W2 contract.
 
Mandatory:
Must have 5+ yrs of Allen-Bradley PLC Programming
5+ yrs of HMI programming
5+ yrs of Fanuc Robotics Programming
5+ yrs of Control systems engineering knowledge
 
Required Qualifications:
• Allen-Bradley PLC programming 
• HMI programming 
• Fanuc robotics programming 
• Control systems engineering knowledge 
• Communication, Critical thinking, Collaboration Skills
Desired Qualifications: 
• Functional machine safety design, implementation, and integration 
 
Job Duties: 
• Elevated fault recovery, Controls system documentation, firmware/software upgrades, project support, lead engineer on small-medium sized projects
• Provide added bandwidth to team problem solving capabilities 
• Catching up on items that are dropping off radars