1

Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Join Our Team as a Software Engineer III! As a Software Engineer III , you'll be crucial in ... interrupting controls. * Contribute to the development of architecture design, software ...

Software Engineer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$106K - $140K/yr

Join Our Team as a Software Engineer III! As a Software Engineer III , you'll be crucial in ... interrupting controls. * Contribute to the development of architecture design, software ...

Sr. Software Engineer (Remote)

Oak Brook, IL · On-site +1

$123K - $163K/yr

Ability to implement security controls, conduct code reviews, and perform security-focused testing ... Senior Software Engineers should have a strong understanding of system design principles and ...

Minimum Requirements • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related Controls/Automation programming experience. Minimum of 5 years of prior direct experience in software development ...

Minimum Requirements • Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related Controls/Automation programming experience. Minimum of 5 years of prior direct experience in software development ...

Principal Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$139K - $186K/yr

Director Software Engineering - IE06FE We're determined to make a difference and are proud to be an ... Ensure solutions are production-ready and supportable, with appropriate documentation, controls ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Controls Software Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$19

$47

$64

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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 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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Software Engineer, and why are they important?

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.

What are Controls Software Engineers?

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.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Controls Software Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Controls Software Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Software Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,310 per year, or $47.3 per hour.
Application Engineer- Software & Controls

Application Engineer- Software & Controls

HYDAC TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION

Glendale Heights, IL • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

HYDAC is a family-owned and operated business with a vibrant and rewarding working environment for our employees across the country. Our goal is to provide quality products, components and services that meet our customer expectations while being committed to the protection and preservation of our environment. HYDAC's passionate team designs and manufactures a comprehensive line of innovative and reliable solutions optimized for any demand our customers require. 


The Application Engineer- Software & Controls is part of the Advanced Systems Team. The Advanced System Team's mission is to develop and implement innovative vehicle systems and advanced technology solutions that solves our customer greatest challenges by utilizing innovative and reliable HYDAC hydraulic, electronic, control and fluid conditioning solutions optimized for the mobile/off-highway market. The Software Application Engineer will work closely within the Advanced System Team and Electronic Division to provide software and hardware support for HYDAC mobile/off-highway system solutions.


You will make an impact in this role by:

  • Technical software and hardware support of electronics controls and HMI's 
  • Development of application software for electronic control of mobile systems - C, Codesys Matlab, HYDAC MATCH environments
  • Develop 'canned' function/application blocks for core HYDAC solutions.
  • Simulate, test and validate application software in the laboratory or on vehicle
  • On-site customer support of software solutions as required
  • Represent HYDAC with customers and accompany Sales Managers to customer locations selling our technology and advanced systems
  • Develop and implement functionally safe software 

Requirements


Key skills and attributes include: 

  • Highly motivated
  • One or more of the following software environments preferred - MATLAB, Simulink, C/C++, or Codesys
  • Hydraulic, mobile machine and mechatronic system knowledge a plus
  • CANBus, Ethernet protocols, industrial/mobile controller programming knowledge a plus
  • Functional Safety Software development experience a plus
  • Strong interpersonal skills including the ability to develop cross-functional relationships
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills including generation of requirement documentation
  • Ability to work with a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and technicians 
  • Willingness to travel (up to 10%)


To be considered for the Application Engineer- Software & Controls role, you must have the following minimum qualifications:

  • Associates Degree in a technology (Bachelor's degree is preferred)
  • Minimum of 2 year experience in software coding
  • One or more of the following software environments preferred - MATLAB, Simulink, C/C++, or Codesys
  • Hydraulic, mobile machine and mechatronic system knowledge a plus



The salary expectation for this role is $90,000 - $100,000. HYDAC offers employees a comprehensive medical/dental/vision plan, paid holidays, PTO, 401k with company matching, FSA account, short term disability and life insurance, and pet insurance. 



Click the "apply" button to be considered for this opening!




HYDAC is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.








#IND123