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Controls Engineer Jobs in DeKalb, IL (NOW HIRING)

Controls Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

As a Controls Technician, you'll develop and program PLC, Servo, and HMI controls software for ... Confer with mechanical and electrical engineering personnel to prepare software modifications as ...

Systems Engineer

Rockford, IL · On-site

$97K - $120K/yr

System Engineer CNC Machine Tool Commissioning Position Summary We have an immediate opening for a ... Diagnose and resolve electrical, controls, hydraulic, and pneumatic system issues. * Read ...

Be Seen First

Provide troubleshooting expertise of analog and digital controls with 480V, 3 phase power ... Programming and troubleshooting of PLC and HMI interfaces. * Perform configuration and logic ...

Automation Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

Our services span controls engineering, design, programming, panel fabrication, installation, and commissioning--always with a focus on safety, quality, and lasting partnerships. When you join Wesa ...

This is not a controls engineering role; however, limited familiarity with PLCs is considered beneficial. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: * Program, debug, and troubleshoot Yaskawa Motoman ...

Senior Control Systems Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$165K - $171K/yr

Engage cross-functional stakeholders (Facilities/EHS, Procurement, R&D, Maintenance, Controls ... Engineering (Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical) At least 5 years of experience in industrial ...

Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and controls engineering. 5. DOCUMENTATION & KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER * Prepare technical documentation, internal handoff ...

Showing results 41-60

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.
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 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.

Sr. Project Engineer - Controls/Electrical/Digital

Mars

Yorkville, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Mars Inc. rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 435 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Job Description:

This Regional Project Engineering Role will be a part of the Mars Wrigley North America Controls, Automation, and Digital engineering team. The individual in this role will be responsible for all aspects of planning and executing projects from ideation to project closure.

The scope of the role could include leading and/or supporting large capital projects in the areas of electrical, controls, Factory IT, physical automation and Digital Plant Technology systems depending on business needs.

The role owns the overall leadership of controls, automation, and digital projects via the Mars Wrigley Engineering Execution Standard.

This role will be based out of one of the following sites Gainesville, GA - GNV, Yorkville, IL - YRV, Elizabethtown, PA - ELZ.

What are we looking for?

Minimum:

  • A bachelor's degree in electrical, Mechanical, Chemical or relevant Engineering degree.
  • 5-7 years' experience in a comparable technical position - food, beverage, pharmaceutical or related industry
  • Basic understanding of engineering principals - knowledge of engineering disciplines: Process, Packaging, Electrical, Controls, Automation, Construction and/or Computer Services
  • In-depth understanding of designated functional engineering area of expertise (for specific job requirement i.e. controls, process, packaging)
  • Up to 50% travel requirement depending on project demands

Preferred:

  • A bachelor's degree in Controls/Electrical/Electronics is preferred, including courses in Computer Science or an advanced degree in Engineering
  • MBA or PMP certification
  • 8+ years' experience in a comparable technical position - food, beverage, pharmaceutical or related industry preferable
  • Experience in food, beverage, pharmaceutical or related industry
What will be your key responsibilities?
  • The development of control systems for automating manufacturing processes and packaging systems
  • Delivering projects to the business that provides a competitive advantage
  • Control Systems design, which includes developing control concepts & functional and equipment specifications
  • Directing the modifications, installation, and integration of systems in the following areas: electrical and power distribution, control systems, Factory IT (servers, networks, Wi-Fi, etc.), physical automation, and Digital Plant Technology systems
  • Ensuring delivery of assigned objectives for scope, time, budget, and cash flow
  • Maintaining the project adherence to scope, deliverables, and critical success factors
  • Communicating with the project steering team to ensure project objectives are achieved
  • Seeking and applying appropriate technologies to gain and a sustain technical competitive advantage
  • Understanding and making decisions to improve business metrics, such as Return on Total Asset earnings (ROTA), Fixed Asset Turnover Ratio (FATR), Economic Profit (EP), etc
  • Designing systems and selecting hardware and/or directing third-party engineering and/or system Integrator firms Providing design services to meet their contract deliverables
  • Actively participating in the development of engineering standards and tools
  • Supporting safety, security and environmental policies
  • Maximizing asset utilization through value added engineering and lean design
  • Directly managing all assigned project work
  • Understanding and supporting the Five Principles, Vision to Win, and the Winning Environment
  • Actively planning and leading project activities in a cross functional team environment
  • Contribute to growth and effectiveness of Regional Controls, Automation, and Digital Team through team initiatives and action planning
What can you expect from Mars?
  • Work with diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.
  • Join a purpose driven company, where we're striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.
  • Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.
  • An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

#on-site

#LI-MP1

The base pay range for this position at commencement of employment is between the range listed below, however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including but not limited to job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.The total compensation package for this position will include variable pay, medical and dental benefits, participation in 401k plan, and paid time off benefits.Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an applicant receives an offer of employment.

The pay range shown is applicable to all US locations listed within the job posting:USD 108,160.00 - USD 148,720.00Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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