1

Controls Manager Jobs in Sterling, IL (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Sterling, IL Type: Full-time | On-site Position Summary ... Work under the direction of the project managers to create PLC & HMI applications for weighing and ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

As an Electrical Controls Engineer you will have the opportunity to safely produce high quality ... Manage drives program for backup and restore * Receive calls during 'non work hours' to assist with ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

As an Electrical Controls Engineer you will have the opportunity to safely produce high quality ... Manage drives program for backup and restore * Receive calls during 'non work hours' to assist with ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

As an Electrical Controls Engineer you will have the opportunity to safely produce high quality ... Manage drives program for backup and restore * Receive calls during 'non work hours' to assist with ...

Controls * Follows flowcharts to ensure crew meets prep and production goals. * Monitors inventory ... Manages shift to Q.S.C. level of 80% or better. * Takes appropriate action when problems are ...

C. and cost controls. 8.Trains managers to identify problems and develop alternative solutions. 9.Trains and develops managers on Managing Better Shifts skills. 10.Provides leadership and mentoring ...

C. and cost controls. 8. Trains managers to identify problems and develop alternative solutions. 9. Trains and develops managers on Managing Better Shifts skills. 10. Provides leadership and ...

C. and cost controls. 8.Trains managers to identify problems and develop alternative solutions. 9.Trains and develops managers on Managing Better Shifts skills. 10.Provides leadership and mentoring ...

C. and cost controls. 8.Trains managers to identify problems and develop alternative solutions. 9.Trains and develops managers on Managing Better Shifts skills. 10.Provides leadership and mentoring ...

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Dixon, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

... controls. * Define, develop, optimize, validate, and stabilize manufacturing processes for both new ... Manage technical relationships with equipment suppliers, contractors, and service providers ...

Manufacturing Engineering Manager

Dixon, IL · On-site

$104K - $129K/yr

... controls. * Define, develop, optimize, validate, and stabilize manufacturing processes for both new ... Manage technical relationships with equipment suppliers, contractors, and service providers ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Controls Manager information

See Sterling, IL salary details

$73.8K

$126.5K

$161.4K

How much do controls manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls manager in Sterling, IL is $126,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,600.00 and $161,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges controls managers face when overseeing automation projects?

Controls Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating between multidisciplinary teams, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring that control systems integrate seamlessly with existing processes. They must also stay updated with evolving technologies while maintaining compliance with safety and industry standards. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as troubleshooting unexpected issues and adapting to changing project scopes are regular parts of the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls manager?

To thrive as a Controls Manager, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, usually supported by a relevant degree and industry experience. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams and coordinating with other departments. These skills ensure efficient system operation, project success, and compliance with safety and industry standards.

What is the difference between Controls Manager vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls ManagerControls Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often requires leadership experienceBachelor's or master's degree in engineering, control systems, or related field
Work EnvironmentOversees control systems projects, manages teams, coordinates with clientsDesigns, develops, and tests control systems, often working hands-on with equipment
Industry UsageCommonly found in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectorsTypically involved in engineering design and implementation in similar industries

Controls Managers focus on overseeing control systems projects and leading teams, while Controls Engineers are more involved in designing and developing control systems. Both roles require technical expertise, but the Controls Manager has additional leadership responsibilities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role in automation and control systems industries.

What cities near Sterling, IL are hiring for Controls Manager jobs? Cities near Sterling, IL with the most Controls Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Controls Manager job openings in Sterling, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,544 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc

Sterling, IL • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Controls Engineer - PLC/HMI (Weighing, Batching & Material Handling Systems)We need a hands-on Controls Engineer with real-world Allen Bradley/Rockwell experience - this is not an entry-level role.If you've programmed CompactLogix or ControlLogix PLCs, built FactoryTalk HMI screens, and been on-site commissioning industrial systems, we want to talk to you. If you have a controls-related degree but haven't yet done hands-on PLC/HMI work in an industrial environment, this role isn't the right fit yet - please don't apply.What You'll Be DoingYou'll design, program, and commission PLC/HMI control systems for weighing, batching, and material handling equipment - working directly with Project Managers from the design phase through customer startup. Expect a mix of in-house engineering and field time, including travel for system commissioning and troubleshooting.Required Experience (Non-Negotiable)2–5+ years of hands-on PLC/HMI programming in an industrial/manufacturing controls environment (not classroom or simulation-only)Allen Bradley hardware: CompactLogix, ControlLogix, VFDs, soft startersRockwell software: Studio 5000 / RSLogix, FactoryTalk Studio ME/SEBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related fieldWorking knowledge of industrial sensors/instrumentation: load cells, weight indicators, pressure/level sensors, limit switches, solenoidsWillingness and ability to travel for on-site commissioning and startup supportNice to Have (Not Required)CAD experience - E-Plan, DraftSight, or AutoCADExposure to Inductive Automation IgnitionSome structured text programmingExperience specifically in weighing/batching/material handling equipmentWhat You'll OwnApproval packages: sequence of operations, front panel layouts, equipment/I/O listsPLC and HMI programming from design through in-house checkoutInstruction manuals for completed projectsDirect technical communication with vendors and customersOn-site and phone troubleshooting, system startup supportOccasional support on production-ready drawings (E-Plan/DraftSight)Who Succeeds in This RoleCan work independently with minimal oversightComfortable traveling for fieldwork - this is a real part of the job, not an occasional exceptionAdapts well when priorities shiftSweats the details on documentation and wiring accuracyPhysical RequirementsExtended periods at a computer alternating with on-site work that may involve standing, squatting, lifting, and stretching