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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer

Deerfield, IL · On-site

$91.17 - $130.24/hr

The Software Engineer is responsible for application development and coding, unit testing, system ... Can articulate core controls and requirements to business units. * Proactive in developing ...

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 ...

Perform PLC software code reviews with assigned project resources. * Participate in design reviews with project teams. * Perform regular progress checks and reviews of PLC controls team. * Create ...

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 ...

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or related Controls/Automation programming experience. Minimum of 5 years of prior direct experience in software development, programming design and systems ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Software Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20

$50

$68

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls software engineer in Chicago, IL is $50.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44.81 and $57.21 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Controls Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Controls Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Controls Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Software Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Controls Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 49% In-person, and 51% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $104,511 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

Software Engineer

ChenMed LLC

Deerfield, IL • On-site

$91.17 - $130.24/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


ChenMed rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 247 rated social care providers


Job description

The Software Engineer is responsible for application development and coding, unit testing, system support, and documentation. The incumbent designs, modifies, develops, writes and implements software programming applications and components; supports and/or installs software applications and components; works from written specifications and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job and maintains documentation of process flow. He/She works closely with other software developers and technical professionals.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Designs, develops, tests and delivers software solutions using one or more commercial languages as well as open source tools.
  • Develops and delivers software in an Agile/Scrum environment.
  • Manages projects while accepting responsibility over a specialized area.
  • Provides clear communication to stakeholders, setting expectations.
  • Engages with key stakeholders to ensure requirements, schedules and all expectations are understood by the development team and stakeholders for assigned software solutions and software maintenance.
  • Develops and executes automated unit testing for all assigned software solutions.
  • Supports infrastructure and network teams in analysis and resolution of issues that are software solution related.
  • Performs all functions necessary to take software solutions from planning to implementation.
  • Escalates appropriately, if deadlines are in danger of being missed.
  • Coordinates with management to ensure identification of appropriate schedules, goals, design criteria, methodology, etc.
  • Shares knowledge, lessons learned and best practices among the team.
  • Supports and guides the delivery of software solutions.
  • Provides appropriate documentation.
  • Follows all defined software solution methods, processes, and procedures.
  • Performs other duties as assigned and modified at manager’s discretion.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Superb knowledge of the Atlassian suite of products (Bitbucket/JIRA/CONFLUENCE etc.) or similar tools.
  • Expert knowledge in at least 2 domains or technologies.
  • Intermediate competency in most domains or technologies used in teams.
  • Keen ability to anticipate software malfunctions and quickly identify solutions.
  • Largely self-directed.
  • May provide direction to individuals or small teams.
  • Influences associated teams for best practices and decisions.
  • Ability to break multi-week objectives into tasks.
  • Ability to decompose tasks and provide definition for others.
  • Ability to improve team productivity.
  • Knowledge to assist with recruitment of associate/junior level positions.
  • Superior ability to manage projects to deadlines while avoiding undue time crunch for self and project team.
  • Well-respected and viewed as a key contributor cross-functionally.
  • Influences and builds consensus across diverse teams.
  • Can articulate core controls and requirements to business units.
  • Proactive in developing actionable programs that drive improvements and increase productivity/revenue/customer value.
  • Ability to mentor and coach junior team members effectively and create a positive learning environment.
  • Can set measurable objectives.
  • Works with minimal supervision (bi-weekly check-ins).
  • Expert skills in Microsoft Office Suite products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook, plus a variety of other word-processing, spreadsheet, database, e‑mail and presentation software.
  • Willingness to travel locally, regionally and nationwide up to 10% of the time.
  • Spoken and written fluency in English.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE CRITERIA
  • Bachelor degree in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Software Engineering, Software Development, Mathematics or a related field OR additional experience above the minimum will be considered in lieu of the required education on a year-for-year basis.
  • Minimum of 5 years’ work experience as a software engineer or similar IT role or related field.
  • IT certification in Java, C, Objective‑C, C++, Perl & Python or similar formats preferred.
PAY RANGE

$91,165 - $130,235. Salary is the base hourly rate or base annual full-time salary for this position. Final compensation will depend on experience, education, geographic location and other relevant factors. This position may also be eligible for bonuses or commissions.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

Comprehensive benefits, career development and advancement opportunities. For more information, visit https://chenmed.makeityoursource.com/helpful-documents.

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About ChenMed

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We're expanding healthcare equity across America. We're already in 15 states with 100+ medical centers. As a rapidly growing, physician-led organization, we have one central focus: rescue any and every senior from a healthcare system that has failed them. Our family of brands include Chen Senior Medical Center, JenCare Senior Medical Center, and Dedicated Senior Medical Center. Recently named a 2021 Best Places To Work and one of the only healthcare companies recognized in Fortune's 2020 "Change The World" list, ChenMed prides itself on creating a culture that enables career growth and promotes inclusion for all.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Miami, FL, US

Year founded

1985

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