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Controls Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Haumiller Engineering Co

Controls Engineer II

Belvidere, IL · 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 ...

Matrix Design, LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$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

$110K - $140K/yr

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 ...

BBS Automation

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · 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 ...

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 ...

Ipsen International Inc

Controls Engineer

Cherry Valley, IL · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Education and Experience * BS in Electrical Engineering or related engineering field required. * 3+ years designing controls for industrial equipment required. * Experience drawing electrical ...

Ipsen

Controls Engineer

Cherry Valley, IL · On-site

$77K - $115K/yr

Education and Experience * BS in Electrical Engineering or related engineering field required. * 3+ years designing controls for industrial equipment required. * Experience drawing electrical ...

Mobius Renewables

Operations Controls Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

We are seeking a Operations Controls Engineer to spearhead controls during commissioning, troubleshooting, and optimization for our RNG process plants. This role requires extensive commissioning and ...

Ipsen International Inc

Controls Engineer

Cherry Valley, IL · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

Education and Experience * BS in Electrical Engineering or related engineering field required. * 3+ years designing controls for industrial equipment required. * Experience drawing electrical ...

Hansoninc

Electrical Controls Engineer - Power

Rockford, IL · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Power Controls Engineer (Power Industry) Position Type: Full-Time Industry Focus: Power Delivery / Transmission & Distribution / Substations / SCADA & Communications About the Role Hanson ...

Clarios

Controls Engineer

Geneva, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Act as liaison between plant and division engineering personnel in communicating engineering needs process changes, project reporting, etc. * Monitor process, including new equipment and tools, to ...

CPS Technology Holdings LLC

Controls Engineer

Geneva, IL

$81K - $105K/yr

Act as liaison between plant and division engineering personnel in communicating engineering needs process changes, project reporting, etc. * Monitor process, including new equipment and tools, to ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL

Controls Engineer information

See DeKalb, IL salary details

$54K

$94.8K

$128.6K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in DeKalb, IL is $94,787.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $106,000.00 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 DeKalb, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in DeKalb, IL are:
What cities near DeKalb, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near DeKalb, IL with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,787 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Elgin, IL • On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Title: Senior Controls Engineer
Location: Elgin, IL
Hire Type: Direct hire
Compensation: $105,000 to $125,000
Benefits: Standard benefits package (health insurance, paid time off, holiday pay, 401k)


Objective:

As a Senior Controls Engineer you will lead the electrical and/or controls design and programming of a custom automated assembly machines from concept to client acceptance. You will be responsible for understanding the concept, budget and schedule and staying within the project deadline and budget requirements.

Responsibilities:

• Proficiency with Allen Bradley and/or Siemens PLCs and HMIs
• Will write PLC to device software interface including implementation documentation and validation plan
• Skilled in commissioning intelligent devices on fieldbus networks (Ethernet I/P, ProfiNet, etc.) with very good troubleshooting skills
• Should have robot programming (Epson, Adept, Mitsubishi, Fanuc, Staubli, ABB)
• Set up and programming of vision systems (Cognex, Keyence)
• Precision motion control involving coordinated motion
• Participate in internal and customer design reviews, installations, and service calls when needed.
• Able to communicate engineering concepts and ideas clearly (to builders, customers, and others)
• Travel to customer sites for machine installation; travel % is approximately 25%

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering
• 10+ years of controls engineering experience in custom automation; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience



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.