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Controls Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer-Controls

Sycamore, IL · On-site

$81K - $95K/yr

#jobalert | DIRECT PLACEMENT | MANUFACTURING ENGINEER-CONTROLS | Sycamore, IL area A century-plus manufacturer of large-scale industrial storage and containment equipment is hiring a Manufacturing ...

Manufacturing Engineer-Controls

Sycamore, IL · On-site

$81K - $95K/yr

#jobalert | DIRECT PLACEMENT | MANUFACTURING ENGINEER-CONTROLS | Sycamore, IL area A century-plus manufacturer of large-scale industrial storage and containment equipment is hiring a Manufacturing ...

#jobalert | DIRECT PLACEMENT | MANUFACTURING ENGINEER-CONTROLS | Sycamore, IL area A century-plus manufacturer of large-scale industrial storage and containment equipment is hiring a Manufacturing ...

Service Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience with automation equipment. * Technical understanding of pharmaceutical / biotechnology unit ...

Electrical Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Our client is a well-established custom automation manufacturer seeking an Electrical Controls Engineer to join their growing engineering team. This is an opportunity to work on highly customized ...

Electrical Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$52.88 - $57.69/hr

Our client is a well-established custom automation manufacturer seeking an Electrical Controls Engineer to join their growing engineering team. This is an opportunity to work on highly customized ...

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PLC Programmer - Allen-Bradley

Elgin, IL · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

... Controls Engineer , Automation Engineer , Controls Technician , or similar controls professional. * Strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs and Rockwell Automation systems. * Experience ...

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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 15, 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in DeKalb, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,787 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Electrical and Controls Engineer

Owens Corning

Rockford, IL

$80K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Owens Corning rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 102 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

The Electrical and Controls Engineer partners with manufacturing facilities and business stakeholders to execute small, medium, and largescale capital projects.  The engineer supports equipment specification, integration design, installation, commissioning, and startup all while providing ongoing technical support to operations, maintenance, and process teams. The engineer serves as an electrical and controls subject matter expert for XPS Foam extrusion equipment and control systems while ensuring compliance with EH&S, OSHA PSM, and internal Owens Corning standards.

 

Reports to: Global Capital Delivery XPS Foam Engineering Leader

Location: Hybrid work environment based out of an Owens Corning location:

  • Tallmadge OH or Rockford IL

Travel: 25 - 35% travel based on project demands.

Span of Control: Manufacturing plants in the US, Canada, and Mexico

 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Provides electrical project management on capital projects to ensure successful design principles, within designated timeframe and budget.

  • Applies sound engineering practices towards the completion of all projects
  • Delivers full project scope creation and utilizes the stage gate process to ensure alignment
  • Focused effort on achieving zero injuries by ensuring safe work practices are applied and upheld
  • Oversees contract engineering resources to ensure design and commissioning work is exceptional
  • Fully manages capital projects from start to finish - write scope, capital approval requests, issue PO's etc.

 

Delivers exceptional leadership and engineering on technical improvements for productivity, quality, equipment uptime, and line utilization.

  • Provides electrical leadership for aspects of multiple projects simultaneously
  • Adheres to all plant and position-specific safety policies, procedures, and standards
  • Develop scope, estimate costs, evaluate program, and coordinate resources for vertical startup
  • Source and manage outside engineering firms as needed to ensure exceptional project delivery
  • Ensures all projects are delivered consistently with scope and expectations around operability and costs

Leads technical consultation and guidance throughout Foam on electrical and controls applications in support of advancing reliability and continuous improvement.

  • Always leads with Safety as a value and priority
  • Serves as an expert in the division's technical applications
  • Partners with plant personnel in troubleshooting various control systems
  • Provides engineering solutions to safely control energy sources with LTT, interlocks, and e-stop circuitry
  • Ensure PLC/HMI controls maintain appropriate and consistent configuration to allow for efficient operation

JOB REQUIREMENTS

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or closely related field
  • Functional experience with MES and SCADA systems, especially Ignition
  • 3+ years' experience working in an industrial or manufacturing environment
  • 3+ years' experience leading electrical capital project design and implementation for projects
  • Strong leadership within cross-functional disciplines and organizations on project delivery
  • Knowledge and experience with major electrical/controls technology platforms - ie: Allen Bradley or Siemens

 

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

  • Managing and delivering results through projects and initiatives
  • Experience providing leadership to experienced, technical resources
  • Knowledgeable in IT networking and Manufacturing Application Support

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

  • Strong verbal and communication skills
  • General understanding of all applicable electrical codes
  • Able to achieve results fast individually and through teams
  • Conducts themself with the highest ethical and moral standards
  • Familiarity with pneumatics, hydraulics, control valves, and servo systems
  • Knowledge in writing project scopes, cost estimates, and contractor bid packages
  • Learns concepts and new skills at a very rapid pace and applies learning to the job
  • Understands deep and complex scientific concepts and can troubleshoot problems
  • Strong project leadership skills and ability to manage projects through to completion
  • Highly developed analytical and problem-solving skills to quickly assess situations, develop appropriate solutions, and manage execution
  • Able to utilize data and data collection systems for problem-solving and decision-making to eliminate manufacturing losses and unnecessary costs
  • Strong knowledge of motor control, programmable controllers, software, instrumentation, feedback control systems, control system networks, and supervisory computer and data acquisition systems

About Owens Corning  

Owens Corning is a branded building products leader with three complementary market-leading businesses providing roofing, insulation, and doors primarily for residential markets in North America and Europe. The company operates with an integrated go-to-market strategy and a unique set of OC Advantages - including its iconic brand, unparalleled commercial strength, leading technology, and winning cost position - to help customers win and grow in the market. Owens Corning is committed to helping build better and achieve more through winning partnerships, leading performance, and engaging people. Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: OC). For more information, visit www.owenscorning.com. 

Owens Corning is an equal opportunity employer. Except in limited circumstances such as formal apprenticeship programs, Owens Corning does not employ anyone under the age of 18.


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About OWENS CORNING

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Owens Corning (OC) develops, manufactures and markets insulation, roofing, and fiberglass composites. Global in scope and human in scale, the company's market-leading businesses use their deep expertise in materials, manufacturing and building science to develop products and systems that save energy and improve comfort in commercial and residential buildings. Through its glass reinforcements business, the company makes thousands of products lighter, stronger and more durable. Ultimately, Owens Corning people and products make the world a better place. Based in Toledo, Ohio, Owens Corning posted 2017 sales of $6.4 billion and employs 19,000 people in 37 countries. It has been a Fortune 500® company for 64 consecutive years. For more information, please visit www.owenscorning.com. A career at Owens Corning offers the ability to enhance your expertise and achieve your personal and professional aspirations. Through it all, we'll empower you with an environment that encourages open communication and big ideas, competitive pay for your performance, comprehensive benefits, and more opportunities to make your impact.

Industry

Construction materials wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Toledo, OH, US

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