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Controls Engineer Jobs in Crystal Lake, IL (NOW HIRING)

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

In person 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 ...

New

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

In person 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

TekPro Engineering

Electrical Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Controls Engineer About the Opportunity We're partnering with a well-established manufacturer of custom automated equipment that is looking to add a Controls Engineer to its growing engineering team.

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Saint Charles, IL

$85K - $125K/yr

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

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 ...

MATRIX DESIGN LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

BBS Automation

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$96K - $126K/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 ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL

$160K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automation Location: Elgin, IL Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Up to $160,000 annually (based on experience) Overview We are seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to join ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Crystal Lake, IL

Controls Engineer information

See Crystal Lake, IL salary details

$53.3K

$93.7K

$127K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Crystal Lake, IL is $93,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $104,700.00 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 Crystal Lake, IL?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Crystal Lake, IL are:

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

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

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

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

Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Crystal Lake, IL 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 $93,655 per year, or $45 per hour.

Controls Engineer - Junior

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Buffalo Grove, IL • On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Controls Engineer – Manufacturing Systems & SCADA
Location: Buffalo Grove, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $90,000–$110,000 per year
Schedule: Full-Time | 100% Onsite

Position Overview
We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the continued growth of a highly automated medical device manufacturing operation in Buffalo Grove, IL. This role combines traditional controls engineering with manufacturing IT, SCADA, and Operational Technology (OT) integration to support a connected manufacturing environment.
The ideal candidate will have experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled automation while also understanding plant-level SCADA systems, manufacturing networks, and system integration. This individual will partner closely with Manufacturing Engineering, IT, Automation, Maintenance, and Quality teams to improve equipment connectivity, data visibility, and production system reliability.
This is an excellent opportunity for a junior to mid-level Controls Engineer looking to expand into smart manufacturing, digital factory initiatives, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
Key Responsibilities

Support and troubleshoot PLC-controlled manufacturing equipment and automated production systems.
Maintain and improve plant-level SCADA systems and manufacturing visualization platforms.
Assist with Operational Technology (OT) initiatives, including manufacturing network connectivity and system integration.
Support integration between production equipment, PLCs, SCADA, manufacturing databases, and other plant systems.
Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, IT, Controls, Quality, and Operations to improve system reliability and production performance.
Troubleshoot automation hardware, industrial communication networks, HMIs, and manufacturing software.
Participate in automation upgrades, equipment commissioning, validation, and continuous improvement projects.
Support manufacturing data collection, reporting, and connected factory initiatives.
Assist with troubleshooting automated material handling systems, including ASRS (Automated Storage & Retrieval Systems) and AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) integration where applicable.
Develop and maintain controls documentation, network architecture diagrams, and engineering standards.
Work closely with equipment vendors and system integrators during new equipment installations and upgrades.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.
2–5 years of experience supporting industrial automation or manufacturing controls systems.
Experience troubleshooting PLC-controlled equipment in a manufacturing environment.
Working knowledge of SCADA systems and HMI platforms.
Understanding of Manufacturing IT, Operational Technology (OT), and industrial networking concepts.
Experience supporting high-speed automated manufacturing equipment.
Strong troubleshooting skills with electrical controls, automation hardware, and industrial communication networks.
Excellent communication skills with the ability to work across Engineering, IT, Operations, and Quality teams.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLC platforms.
Familiarity with SCADA platforms such as Ignition, FactoryTalk View SE, WinCC, Wonderware, or similar.
Exposure to MES, manufacturing data collection systems, or historian platforms.
Experience integrating production equipment with plant-level systems.
Knowledge of Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP, OPC UA, or other industrial communication protocols.
Experience supporting ASRS, AGV, or other automated material handling systems.
Experience within a medical device, pharmaceutical, food, or other highly regulated manufacturing environment.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate is a controls engineer who enjoys working at the intersection of automation and manufacturing technology. They possess a strong foundation in PLCs and industrial controls while also understanding how automation systems connect to plant-wide SCADA, manufacturing IT, and Operational Technology (OT) environments. This individual is eager to support digital manufacturing initiatives, collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines, and help drive the evolution of a connected, high-performance manufacturing operation.