ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kraft Heinz Company

Sr Project Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$89K - $112K/yr

The Senior Project Engineer will report to Engineering Manager and is responsible for leading the ... Project planning and controls * Risk management * Communication and stakeholder management

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Rantoul, IL

$91K - $109K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Savoy, IL

$93K - $112K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Mahomet, IL

$91K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Ogden, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Homer, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Saybrook, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Mansfield, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Farnsworth Group

Electrical Project Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$99K - $149K/yr

... lighting controls, and related support systems. * Take ownership of discipline-specific ... Prepare, review, and approve engineering calculations, equipment selections, drawing packages, and ...

HOA Controls LLC

PLC Programmer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

About the Role We're looking for a hands-on PLC programmer who can hit the ground running on customer sites with minimal guidance. This is a field-focused role that requires both electrical ...

Watco

Conductor/Engineer - Tuscola, IL

Tuscola, IL · On-site

... moves controls to move locomotive backwards or forwards to switch and couple cars; or receives ... Notifies engineer of switching orders and, whereby, which cars are to be moved to specified ...

Prairie Engineers

Electrical Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$75K - $150K/yr

Prairie Engineers is the place to be for Engineers looking to grow and excel! Join a collaborative team that fuels your growth and rewards your dedication. We're a team looking to make a lasting ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

Controls Engineer information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$55.1K

$96.7K

$131.2K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Champaign, IL is $96,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $108,200.00 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 job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Champaign, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,715 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Sr Project Engineer

Kraft Heinz Company

Champaign, IL • On-site

$89K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Kraft Heinz rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 122 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

231st of 435 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

The Senior Project Engineer will report to Engineering Manager and is responsible for leading the execution of approved capital projects at the Champaign, IL site. This role manages multiple complex projects simultaneously and is accountable for delivering assets safely, on time, within budget, and in alignment with technical, operational, and quality requirements. The role partners closely with plant leadership and cross-functional teams to drive projects from planning and design through installation, commissioning, startup, and closeout.Job Description
Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership and Execution
  • Lead multiple approved capital projects simultaneously, including large and complex manufacturing projects
  • Develop and manage project scope, schedules, budgets, milestones, and execution plans
  • Drive project execution from approved design through installation, commissioning, startup, and final handoff
  • Monitor project performance and resolve barriers that impact safety, quality, cost, or timing
  • Ensure project deliverables are completed with strong execution discipline and clear accountability

Engineering and Technical Delivery
  • Lead preliminary and final design engineering activities for capital projects
  • Oversee technical specifications, equipment selection, contractor coordination, and installation planning
  • Provide on-site engineering support during construction, installation, testing, and startup
  • Ensure assets are implemented in accordance with engineering, safety, quality, and operational standards
  • Support troubleshooting and technical problem-solving during project execution

Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Partner with operations, maintenance, quality, safety, finance, procurement, and plant leadership to support project success
  • Lead cross-functional communication, stakeholder alignment, and decision-making throughout the project lifecycle
  • Establish and maintain project governance routines, status reporting, and escalation processes
  • Coordinate project dependencies to ensure efficient implementation and readiness for startup

Risk, Controls, and Reporting
  • Develop and maintain project estimates, forecasts, schedules, and status reporting
  • Identify project risks and lead mitigation planning to protect project delivery
  • Track project costs, timelines, and implementation progress against approved plans
  • Ensure project documentation, reporting, and closeout activities are complete and accurate

Startup and Handoff
  • Support trial runs, commissioning, startup readiness, and early operational stabilization
  • Ensure action items and final action items are completed prior to project closeout
  • Partner with plant teams to transition assets into operation successfully
  • Capture lessons learned and applied them to future project execution

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering required
  • 3+ years of engineering and capital project experience in manufacturing, industrial, or consumer packaged goods environments
  • Demonstrated experience leading multiple capital projects simultaneously
  • Experience in project planning, design engineering, construction support, installation, commissioning, and startup
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and project leadership skills
  • Ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams in a plant environment

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in food and beverage or consumer packaged goods manufacturing
  • Experience supporting large-scale capital projects in an operating plant environment
  • Experience with project governance, risk management, and reporting routines
  • PMP or similar project management certification preferred

Key Competencies
  • Capital project execution
  • Engineering leadership
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Project planning and controls
  • Risk management
  • Communication and stakeholder management
  • Problem-solving and decision-making
  • Startup and commissioning discipline

Working Conditions
  • Role is based on site in Holland, Michigan
  • Frequent plant-floor presence required during active project phases
  • Travel may be required on a limited basis to support project execution, vendors, or related site activity
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

Success Measures
Success in this role will be measured by:
  • Safe and effective delivery of approved capital projects
  • Achievement of project scope, schedule, and budget commitments
  • Strong startup readiness and asset handoff execution
  • Effective cross-functional leadership and stakeholder alignment
  • Consistent project reporting, governance, and execution discipline

#INDMFGS
Our Total Rewards philosophy is to provide a meaningful and flexible spectrum of programs that equitably support our diverse workforce and their families and complement Kraft Heinz' strategy and values.
New Hire Base Salary Range:
$89,800.00 - $112,200.00
Bonus: This position is eligible for a performance-based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.
The compensation offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors
Benefits: Coverage for employees (and their eligible dependents) through affordable access to healthcare, protection, and saving for the future, we offer plans tailored to meet you and your family's needs. Coverage for benefits will be in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans and associated governing plan documents.
Wellbeing: We offer events, resources, and learning opportunities that inspire a physical, social, emotional, and financial well-being lifestyle for our employees and their families.
You'll be able to participate in a variety of benefits and wellbeing programs that may vary by role, country, region, union status, and other employment status factors, for example:
  • Physical - Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Screenings/Assessments
  • Social - Paid Time Off, Company Holidays, Leave of Absence, Flexible Work Arrangements, Recognition, Training
  • Emotional - Employee Assistance Program , Wellbeing Programs, Family Support Programs
  • Financial - 401k, Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Disability

Location(s)
Champaign Plant
Kraft Heinz is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Underrepresented Ethnic Minority Groups/Women/Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity and other protected classes. In order to ensure reasonable accommodation for protected individuals, applicants that require accommodation in the job application process may contact NAZTAOps@kraftheinz.com for assistance.

What Kraft Heinz employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply