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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The duties of the Controls Engineer will consist of creating, modifying and testing controls software to provide control of our equipment while meeting our customer's specifications. Proficiency will ...

Controls Engineer

Springfield, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The duties of the Controls Engineer will consist of creating, modifying and testing controls software to provide control of our equipment while meeting our customer's specifications. Proficiency will ...

Controls Engineer

Roscoe, IL

$48.08 - $72.12/hr

Mechatronic knowledge of controls, software, and mechanical actuator systems. * Tuning servo motor ... Programming PLC systems using IEC 61131-3 PLC languages * C++, C#, Visual Basic programming a plus

Controls Engineer II

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$75 - $95/hr

West Chester, OH Job Id: 2007 # of Openings: 1 Position Description TREW is a provider of Automated Equipment, Control Systems and Warehouse Execution Software. As a Controls Engineer II, you will ...

Manufacturing Controls Engineer

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Define software and hardware requirements to control and enhance production equipment and processes ... Create, troubleshoot, and modify PLC programming and ladder logic of production equipment to ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Mossville, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Job Summary We are looking for an experienced Embedded Software Engineer to design, develop, integrate, and test software for embedded electronic controls used in safety-detection applications . Key ...

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Controls Software Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$19

$47

$64

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls software engineer in Illinois is $47.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.16 and $53.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controls software engineer?

Controls Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software used to control machines, industrial processes, or automated systems. They work at the intersection of hardware and software, creating programs that direct how machinery operates in sectors like manufacturing, automotive, and robotics. Their responsibilities often include writing control algorithms, configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. Controls Software Engineers collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, and process engineers to deliver integrated solutions. This role requires strong programming skills, an understanding of control theory, and familiarity with industrial automation tools.

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

To thrive as a Controls Software Engineer, you need a strong background in control systems theory, programming (such as C/C++ or PLC languages), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, SCADA systems, and industry-specific automation platforms is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) being advantageous. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex system challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable and efficient automated control systems in industrial settings.

How does a controls software engineer typically collaborate with hardware and mechanical teams during a project?

As a Controls Software Engineer, collaboration with hardware and mechanical teams is integral throughout the project lifecycle. You will frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to align software controls with hardware specifications and system requirements. This may involve reviewing electrical schematics, discussing sensor integration, and conducting joint troubleshooting sessions during system commissioning. Open communication and a willingness to adapt your code based on physical system feedback are key to ensuring seamless system performance and successful project delivery.

What is the difference between Controls Software Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControls Software EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Software Engineering; often requires experience in control systemsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; may require certifications in automation systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing control software for machinery and industrial systemsDesigning, implementing, and maintaining automated processes and systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, robotics, process controlManufacturing, process industries, robotics

Controls Software Engineers focus on developing control algorithms and software for machinery, while Automation Engineers design and optimize automated processes. Both roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope: controls software is more software development-centric, whereas automation emphasizes process improvement and system integration.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Software Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Controls Software Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Controls Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Controls Software Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Software Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,310 per year, or $47.3 per hour.

Industrial Controls Software Engineer

Sotera Health Company

Oak Brook, IL โ€ข On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

## Industrial Controls Software EngineerApplylocations: Oak Brooktime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R-2026-383The name Sotera Health was inspired by Soteria, the Greek goddess of safety, and reflects the Companyโ€™s unwavering commitment to its mission, Safeguarding Global Health.Sotera Health Company is a leading global provider of mission-critical sterilization and lab testing and advisory services for the healthcare industry. With a combined tenure across our businesses of nearly 200 years and our industry recognized scientific and technological expertise, we help to ensure the safety of millions of patients and healthcare practitioners around the world every year.Across our 64 facilities worldwide, we have over 3,000 employees who are dedicated to safety and quality. We are a trusted partner to more than 5,800 customers in over 50 countries, including more than 40 of the top 50 medical device companies and 9 of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies.An experienced Industrial Controls Software Engineer with strong technical depth, hands-on industrial automation experience in the IoT space, and a track record of leading initiatives without formal supervisory responsibility. Design and deliver advanced control system software for modern industrial automation platforms while providing technical leadership and mentorship across engineering teams. Influence architecture, drive best practices, and help shape the future of our automation ecosystem.**Duties and Responsibilities***Expanding Capacity to Support Growth** Design, develop, and maintain industrial control software, including PLC, PAC, HMI/SCADA systems, data historian and related middleware or application logic* Lead the technical architecture of new controls solutions to ensure reliability, scalability, cybersecurity, and long-term maintainability* Evaluate and select automation hardware/software platforms (PLCs, safety controllers, networking infrastructure, edge/IoT devices)* Perform advanced debugging, root-cause analysis, performance tuning, and system optimization* Review system designs, source code and test plans; champion best practices in documentation, version control, and quality assurance* Manage vendor relationships, including budgets, service agreements, and support escalations for control systems* Champion modern controls engineering practices (standards-based programming, modular architecture, simulation, DevOps for controls, etc.)* Contribute to long-term vision for automation, industrial software, and system reliability* Identify and advocate for improvements across tools, processes, architecture, system instrumentation, and product roadmap planning*Safety** Ensure adherence to relevant safety and compliance standards (IEC, NFPA, UL, ISO, etc.) as well as internal engineering processesPeople/Personal* Collaborate with stakeholders across operations, quality, safety, information technology, vendors, and leadership to define requirements and support successful deployments* Ability to operate in a matrixed organization without direct report management responsibilities* Confident/Positive demeanorValues* Exemplify company core values of Safety, Customer Focus, People, Integrity, Excellence*Quality** Administrative + Ensure all projects are executed using defined Engineering Change Management methodology + Lead incident response activities, technical risk assessments, and validation or commissioning efforts**Education, Experience, & Skill Required*** Bachelorโ€™s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Mechatronics, or equivalent experience* 7+ years of experience developing industrial or automation control systems, including multiple full development or deployment cycles* Deep expertise in at least one major automation platform (e.g., Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens)* Strong proficiency with data historian, data analytics and industrial networking* Experience with system modeling and HMI/SCADA toolkits, including Ignition* Proven capability to translate high level business or product requirements into robust, scalable control system architectures* Specific desired areas of knowledge include:* Experience with cloud-connected controls, industrial IoT platforms, or edge computing* 2โ€“3 years of backend engineering experience supporting Ignition-based applications* Familiarity with modern software engineering methods: CI/CD, Git workflows, simulation, containers, automated testing for controls* Knowledge of IEC 61131-3 languages (Ladder Logic, Function Block, Structured Text)* Regulatory environment knowledge - FDA* Disciplined/structured approach* Knowledge of standards like IEC, NFPA, UL, ISO* Management of Change* Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting to leadership or customersImportant: Some travel required**Benefits**Sotera Health offers a competitive benefits package that includes:* Medical, Rx, Dental, Vision, Disability, Life Insurance, Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts* 401(k) program with Company match that immediately vests* Paid holidays, vacation and sick time* Free financial planning assistance* Paid parental leave* Education assistance* Voluntary benefits including Critical Illness, Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Pet Insurance* Employee Assistance Program (EAP)All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. Sterigenics U.S. LLC takes affirmative action in support of its policy to employ and advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities. We strongly encourage those from underrepresented groups to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr