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

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

We are hiring a Senior Software Engineer to build AI platform and production systems that support ... controls - Partner with data scientists and simulation engineers to reduce iteration friction ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$130K - $140K/yr

... controls- Partner with data scientists and simulation engineers to reduce iteration friction across the team- Help design production architecture for scaling usage, managing cost, and serving ...

HERE Technologies

Sr. Software Engineer

Chicago, IL

$130K - $140K/yr

... controls - Partner with data scientists and simulation engineers to reduce iteration friction ... Strong software engineering background in backend systems, data pipelines, ML platforms ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Programming and Software Development: * Program PLCs, HMIs, robots, and other control devices to ... Manage and lead controls-related projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL

$160K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automation Location: Elgin, IL Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Up to $160,000 ... Debug and validate software and hardware to meet performance and quality requirements * Collaborate ...

Vizient

Lead Software Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Ability to establish development standards, best practices, and quality controls across an ... UiPath Advanced RPA Developer (UiARD) certification or equivalent preferred. You must be authorized ...

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Controls Software Engineer information

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$68

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 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 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 does a controls software engineer do?

A controls software engineer designs, develops, and maintains software that controls machinery and industrial systems. They typically work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), embedded systems, and automation tools to ensure equipment operates efficiently and safely. Strong programming skills in languages like C, C++, or ladder logic are essential, along with understanding of control theory and system integration.

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.

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.

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 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:
Controls Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Software Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,511 per year, or $50.2 per hour.

HVAC Controls Systems Engineer

Johnson Controls

Arlington Heights, IL • On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 407 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 538 rated manufacturers

Job description

About Us:
Johnson Controls, a global leader in thermal management, mission-critical building systems, energy efficiency, and decarbonization, helps customers use energy more productively, reduce carbon emissions, and operate with the precision and resilience required in rapidly expanding industries such as data centers, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, advanced manufacturing, and higher education.
For more than 140 years, Johnson Controls has delivered performance where it really matters. Backed by advanced technology, lifecycle services and an industry-leading field organization, we elevate customer performance, turn goals into real-world results and help move society forward.
Controls Systems Engineer IV
Johnson Controls creates smart, healthy, and sustainable building solutions that help customers operate more efficiently and achieve better outcomes. In this role, you will contribute to complex control system solutions that support that mission after sale.
You will work closely with engineering, sales, and customer teams to shape technical solutions, protect quality, and deliver designs that can be executed with confidence.
What you'll do
This expert-level position is responsible for defining and delivering highly complex control system solutions post-sale. You will provide oversight of hardware design and software architecture, use tools such as AutoCAD and BIM, and help ensure technical solutions are aligned, documented, and ready for successful implementation. The role also calls for thought leadership, engineering best practices, and mentoring that strengthens the broader team.
How you'll do it
  • Lead the development and delivery of highly complex control system solutions after the sale.
  • Oversee hardware design and software architecture to ensure the technical solution is complete, practical, and aligned with customer needs.
  • Use AutoCAD, BIM, and related design tools to support detailed engineering work, documentation, and technical reviews.
  • Review design outputs for quality, accuracy, and consistency across the solution lifecycle.
  • Establish and reinforce engineering best practices that improve reliability and execution.
  • Provide thought leadership on complex technical issues, design tradeoffs, and solution direction.
  • Mentor senior engineers and help build a high-performing team through coaching and knowledge sharing.
  • Collaborate with sales, project, and customer stakeholders to keep technical solutions aligned with scope and expectations.
  • Support innovation and improvement by evaluating emerging technologies and better ways of working.
How You Will Do It
  • Own outcomes with accountability, safety, and integrity while maintaining high standards for technical quality and customer trust.
  • Stay close to the work and remove obstacles for customers by engaging early, clarifying requirements, and addressing issues before they affect delivery.
  • Improve every day through candid problem-solving by challenging gaps, refining documentation, and strengthening solutions through review and learning.
  • Win as one team by bringing together hardware, software, sales, and delivery perspectives and creating space for collaboration.
  • Apply AutoCAD and BIM workflows with discipline so drawings, models, and design packages remain accurate and usable.
  • Use clear communication and strong coordination to guide complex decisions and keep stakeholders aligned.
  • Share expertise generously and mentor others in a way that builds capability across the team.
Required
  • Advanced degree in a relevant field, or a university degree with an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 6+ years of progressive experience in system design and integration, ideally in complex controls or related technical environments.
  • Demonstrated mastery of design platforms and the ability to apply AutoCAD and BIM in advanced engineering work.
  • Strong background in hardware design oversight and software architecture for integrated control solutions.
  • Proven strategic thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to guide decisions in complex situations.
  • Experience communicating technical concepts clearly to engineering, sales, project, and customer stakeholders.
  • Ability to mentor senior engineers and influence engineering practices across a team.
  • Strong attention to quality, documentation, and technical consistency.
Preferred
  • Experience with Revit or other BIM coordination workflows.
  • Experience supporting pre-bid activities, shop drawing review, or design milestone management.
  • Exposure to enterprise account engineering support or similar post-sale technical coordination.
  • Familiarity with emerging design technologies or digital engineering methods that improve delivery quality.

HIRING SALARY RANGE: 91k- 140k. (Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.) This role offers a competitive Bonus plan that will take into account individual, group, and corporate performance. This position includes a competitive benefits package. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technology assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to help identify and evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions are ultimately made by human reviewers. For details, please visit the About Us tab on the Johnson Controls Careers site at https://jobs.johnsoncontrols.com/about-us
Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

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