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Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Westchester, IL · On-site

$82K - $107K/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Westchester, IL · On-site

$82K - $107K/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 ...

Australia-Employment

Controls Engineer

Addison, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Controls Engineer $85000 - $115000 per year | Addison, IL | On-site | Permanent Join a leading producer of reusable packaging that's based out of the Chicago area! A bit about us: We've been around ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide strategic direction in the selection and deployment of automation technologies, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in controls ...

MatrixIndustrialAutomation

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · 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 ...

Matrix Design, LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL

$52.88 - $67.31/hr

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 ...

TekPro

Electrical Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$55.29 - $60.10/hr

This is a great opportunity for an engineer who wants to own controls projects from design and programming through testing and startup. You'll work closely with mechanical engineering and ...

MATRIX DESIGN LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL

$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 ...

Culligan NA

Be Seen First

Electrical Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer II / Automation Engineer Supervisor: Director of Global Accounts Location: Libertyville, IL Description: The Electrical Controls Engineer II - Global Accounts supports ...

Culligan NA

Be Seen First

Electrical Controls Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer II / Automation Engineer Supervisor: Director of Global Accounts Location: Libertyville, IL Description: The Electrical Controls Engineer II - Global Accounts supports ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 14, 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

Merrillville, IN • On-site

Southlake Automation
Industrial Automation Equipment Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Southlake Automationexternal

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

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 Automation offers Control Engineers a unique employment opportunity that allows for a variety of experiences in hardware design, network design, database development, robotics programming, software development and field commissioning.  With a wide range of customers, engineers get the opportunity to see industrial equipment applied in a wide array of industries. These industries include automotive, chemical, consumer product, food & beverage, and material handling.


As a solution provider, Controls Engineers are responsible for project management and execution.  This includes the electrical control design, programming, commissioning, panel build supervision and field commissioning.


As a fast-growing systems integrator, there is plenty of opportunity for advancement.  Choose a career path that fits your goals and talents.  Whether your plan is to become the highest technical expert, a project team leader or to branch into technical sales, Southlake Automation has a path for you.


Products and Engineering Services Offered by Southlake Automation:


  • Turnkey Robotic Cell Design and Deployment – Packing, palletizing, machine tending, & more

  • Full Control System Design – PLC programming, HMI design, SCADA, MES

  • Control Panel Design – Hardware design for PLC, HMI and drive systems

  • Control Panel Assembly – Control panels assembled and wired in our panel shop for our designs and the designs of others

  • Field Service – Assisting customers with down equipment situations

  • Remote Support – Assisting customers via telephone and VPN

  • Commissioning – Bring our designs to full operation


Responsibilities:

  • Design control systems
  • Manage project scope from written specification and verbal description
  • Ensure that designs meet NEC code and UL508A
  • Program PLCs and operator interfaces (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Automation Direct and Mitsubishi).
  • Electrical and mechanical troubleshooting while commissioning systems
  • Communicate directly with customers regarding the status of projects
  • Manage multiple projects from concept through commissioning.
  • Customer relationship management
  • Develop software applications with Visual Basic, C#, Python and SQL Server preferred but not required.
  • Prepare written scopes and material budgets for quotations


Requirements:

  • 0 to 10 years of experience.
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Mechatronics, or related field of study.