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Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL

$45 - $65/hr

Controls Engineer Location : Elgin, IL Hire Type : Contract to direct hire Compensation : $45/hr to $65/hr based on experience Benefits : As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$45 - $65/hr

Controls Engineer Location : Elgin, IL Hire Type : Contract to direct hire Compensation : $45/hr to $65/hr based on experience Benefits : As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

We are seeking a talented Controls Engineer to design, program, and support custom automation systems for a variety of industrial applications. This role will be responsible for developing PLC and ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

We are seeking a talented Controls Engineer to design, program, and support custom automation systems for a variety of industrial applications. This role will be responsible for developing PLC and ...

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 ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

ROLE PURPOSE/ POSITION SUMMARY The Controls Engineer, will be responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of controls and automation systems. This role involves working on a variety ...

ControlsJobs

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

BAS Controls Engineer - Chicago, IL - $75,000-$105,000 + Great Benefits + Remote Flex About the Opportunity: A well-established and rapidly expanding building automation provider is seeking an ...

Shades of Grey HR

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL

$90K - $110K/yr

Job Summary Ross and White Company is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, troubleshooting, startup, and continuous improvement of custom heavy-duty vehicle wash ...

Shades of Grey HR

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Job Summary Ross and White Company is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, troubleshooting, startup, and continuous improvement of custom heavy-duty vehicle wash ...

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$56.7K

$99.6K

$135.1K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer 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 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 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 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 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.

More about Controls Engineer jobs

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 jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,564 per year, or $47.9 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL

Sterling Engineering Inc.
See more jobs at Sterling Engineering Inc.external

$45 - $65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Title:  Controls Engineer
Location:  Elgin, IL
Hire Type:  Contract to direct hire
Compensation:  $45/hr to $65/hr based on experience
Benefits: As a contract employee of Sterling, you are eligible to receive a Full Employee Benefits Package that includes paid time off, paid holidays, 3 medical plans to choose from, dental & vision plans, 401(k), and an Employee Stock Ownership (ESOP) plan.


Summary:

We are seeking a Controls Engineer with 5+ years of experience designing, programming, and commissioning automated machinery. The ideal candidate will have Allen Bradley PLC experience and a background in custom automation, machine building, or systems integration.
This is a hands-on engineering role supporting the development, programming, debugging, and commissioning of complex automated equipment. 

Responsibilities:

  • Design, program, debug, and commission controls systems for custom automated equipment.
  • Develop and modify Allen-Bradley PLC and HMI programs.
  • Support electrical controls design, panel layouts, I/O development, and machine sequencing.
  • Troubleshoot PLC, HMI, servo, motion, robotics, and other automation-related issues.
  • Participate in machine build, integration, debug, FAT, SAT, and customer commissioning activities.
  • Work closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure seamless machine integration.
  • Interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, and machine specifications.
  • Develop and maintain controls documentation, standards, and programming practices.
  • Ensure equipment meets customer specifications, safety requirements, and applicable controls standards.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentoring to less-experienced controls engineers and technicians.
  • Travel as needed for customer installations and commissioning.
Qualifications:

  • 5+ years of controls engineering experience in custom automation, machine building, systems integration, or a related manufacturing environment.
  • Extensive Allen Bradley PLC programming experience.
  • Experience with Allen Bradley HMIs, motion/servo controls, and industrial automation.
  • Ability to troubleshoot and commission complex automated machinery.
  • Strong understanding of electrical controls, machine sequencing, and industrial automation.
  • Experience with GM controls standards is a plus.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
  • Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Comfortable working in a hands-on, onsite engineering environment.


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.