1

Controls Engineer Jobs in Merrillville, IN (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL

$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 ...

Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

ROLE PURPOSE/ POSITION SUMMARY The Controls Engineer, will be responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of controls and automation systems. This role involves working on a variety ...

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 ...

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a large variety of engineering applications in a high-paced and challenging environment. Southlake ...

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a large variety of engineering applications in a high-paced and challenging environment. Southlake ...

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a large variety of engineering applications in a high-paced and challenging environment. Southlake ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide strategic direction in the selection and deployment of automation technologies, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation in controls ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$82K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Electrical Controls Engineer Location: Chicago Area Company:Converge Resources Position Overview: As an Electrical Controls Engineer, you will play a critical role in the design ...

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Minimum one to three years of experience in the controls & automation field * Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field. * Working knowledge of PLC systems including programming and ...

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Minimum one to three years of experience in the controls & automation field * Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field. * Working knowledge of PLC systems including programming and ...

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

... Controls / Manufacturing Engineering 經驗 * PLC Programming / Ladder Logic 編輯與故障排除經驗(Must Have) * 製造業,自動化設備或工業控制系統經驗 * Electrical troubleshooting ...

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

2ND SHIFT CONTROLS ENGINEER - CHICAGO, ILLINOIS A Leading Automotive Supplier in Chicago, Illinois needs a 2nd Shift Controls Engineer. This is a Full Time, Permanent, Direct Hire Position offering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineer information

See Merrillville, IN salary details

$54K

$94.7K

$128.5K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Merrillville, IN is $94,733.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $105,900.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Merrillville, IN?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Merrillville, IN are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Merrillville, IN?

For Controls Engineer jobs in Merrillville, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Merrillville, IN are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Merrillville, IN with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Merrillville, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,733 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

$86K - $111K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Description Controls Engineer Location: Greater Chicago Area Position Type: Full-Time | Onsite with Travel (~25%) Industry: Industrial Machinery / OEM Manufacturing Position Overview A leading industrial equipment manufacturer (OEM) in the Greater Chicago area is seeking a Controls Engineer to join their engineering team. This role is responsible for owning projects from initial concept through commissioning and start-up, working across both office and field environments. You will play a key role in designing, programming, and delivering complete control systems for complex industrial machinery, ensuring high performance, reliability, and adherence to industry standards.

Key Responsibilities Manage controls projects from kickoff through commissioning and final startup Design electrical control systems and define overall system architecture Specify components in accordance with industry standards and project requirements Lead and oversee drafting/design teams for schematic and layout development Supervise panel fabrication within an onsite manufacturing facility Develop and implement PLC and HMI programs Configure and program VFDs and servo motion control systems Perform system testing, simulation, and validation Commission and start up equipment at customer sites Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and controls issues in the field Travel overnight as required (~25%) Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Mechanical Engineering (BSME), or related technical discipline 5+ years of hands-on controls engineering experience, including: Electrical schematic design PLC programming HMI development VFD setup and parameterization I/O configuration and checkout PID loop setup and tuning Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on troubleshooting ability Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills High attention to detail with a focus on quality execution Valid driver's license and ability to travel Technical Skills & Experience PLC/HMI Platforms: Rockwell Automation (Studio 5000, FactoryTalk SE/ME) Siemens (TIA Portal, WinCC) Wonderware, Ignition Hardware & Systems: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PowerFlex VFDs Kinetix Motion Systems Siemens G120 & S120 Drives Distributed I/O (Allen-Bradley & Siemens) Preferred Qualifications Experience with high-speed motion control systems PLC-based safety system design and programming Advanced VFD control (coordination, registration) Experience with cascading or nested PID loop tuning Ability to develop and interpret P&IDs Familiarity with UL 508A and SCCR standards Prior experience mentoring or leading junior engineers