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Controls Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Advastar, Inc

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 ...

Advastar, Inc

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 ...

Advastar, Inc

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 ...

IMA Automation USA Inc

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 ...

IMA Automation USA Inc

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 ...

IMA Automation USA Inc

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 ...

Zekelman Industries

Controls Specialist

Rochelle, IL · On-site

$38 - $40/hr

As a Controls Specialist at Wheatland Tube a division of Zekelman Industries , Rochelle, IL, you ... Perform custom PLC and drive programming for Allen Bradley, SAF, and Rexroth components. * Address ...

FurstStaffing

Electrical Control Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

... Engineering Change Notices (ECN): Manage the ECN process for electrical components and software ... Oversee software updates for machine controls, ensuring the CNC system operates with the latest ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 7, 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.

Manufacturing Engineer-Controls

Advastar, Inc

Sycamore, IL • On-site

$81K - $95K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

#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 Engineer – Controls for its Illinois facility. This is a senior, hands-on role: you'll own the automation and controls side of a fabrication and assembly operation that runs stamping presses, punch presses, fiber lasers, conveyance systems, and robotic equipment. You'll write and troubleshoot PLC code, redesign electrical schematics for machine modifications, and run capital projects from concept through installation. The team is lean enough that your work is visible plant-wide, and the parent organization has manufacturing sites across North America and Europe — for a candidate who wants ownership now with a path to bigger scope later.

  • Anticipated $115,000–$145,000, based on experience
  • Benefits include: Health, Vision, Dental, 401K w/ match

Overview

  • Own PLC, PMC, and TP program creation, editing, and troubleshooting across the plant floor
  • Redesign and modify electrical schematics for machine and equipment changes
  • Design, build, and document automation solutions and custom equipment
  • Develop and test tooling for work-holding, fixturing, and material handling
  • Run capital projects start to finish: layout, equipment selection, installation, commissioning
  • Improve existing manufacturing processes to cut cost and hold quality
  • Provide technical support to production and maintenance teams on new equipment
  • Train plant personnel on new processes and equipment

Preferred Skills/Experiences

  • Bachelor's degree in manufacturing engineering or mechanical engineering 
  • 5+ years of manufacturing engineering experience designing equipment, tooling, and fixtures 
  • Hands-on experience with CNC equipment, punch presses, fiber lasers, robots, PLCs, and welding 
  • PLC, robot, and sensor programming experience
  • Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing, Continuous Improvement, and Six Sigma
  • Experience with facility layout, process design, PFMEA, and DOE
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and Microsoft Office
  • Exposure to MRP systems
  • Ability to communicate from shop floor to executive level
  • Ability to lead cross-functional teams to project completion
  • Ability to travel up to 10%

KEYWORDS: manufacturing engineer, controls engineer, PLC programming, PMC programming, TP programming, Allen-Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Siemens, electrical schematics, control panel design, fixture design, tooling design, CNC, punch press, fiber laser, robotics, robot programming, automation equipment, capital projects, process improvement, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, DOE, PFMEA, AutoCAD, facility layout, DeKalb Illinois

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