ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Beacon Engineering Resources

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Controls Engineer We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the commissioning, startup, testing, and troubleshooting of automated material handling and robotic systems. This role will work ...

Converge Resources

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Greater Chicago Area Position Type: Full-Time | Onsite with Travel (~25%) Industry: Industrial Machinery / OEM Manufacturing Position Overview A leading industrial ...

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

$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 ...

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

PM Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

PM Controls Engineer (Functional Lead) Location: Chicago, IL or Elizabethtown, PA (Onsite, Mon-Fri) Type: Contract (6-12 Months | Start ASAP) Job Summary: We are seeking an experienced PM Controls ...

Implementation Engineers

Torque Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $102K/yr

Torque Controls Engineer Contract Consulting Opportunity | Chicago Area | Immediate Need About the Opportunity Implementation Engineers is seeking an experienced manufacturing engineer with a Torque ...

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

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL

Controls Engineer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$54.2K

$95.2K

$129.1K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Elgin, IL is $95,174.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $106,400.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL? For Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL are:
What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Elgin, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,174 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Downers Grove, IL

$83K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a talented Controls Engineer to design, program, and support custom automation systems for a variety of industrial applications. This role will be responsible for developing PLC and HMI software, integrating controls hardware, and supporting system startup, commissioning, and troubleshooting.

Key responsibilities include designing electrical control systems, programming PLCs and HMIs, configuring servo drives and motion control systems, and collaborating with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and customers throughout the project lifecycle. The Controls Engineer will also provide onsite startup support, testing, and technical assistance to ensure successful system performance.

Qualified candidates should have experience with PLC programming platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar, along with HMI development, industrial networking, and troubleshooting automated equipment. Experience with servo systems, robotics, and custom machine automation is highly preferred.
This is an excellent opportunity to work on innovative, custom automation projects in a collaborative engineering environment.


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.