ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Controls Systems Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pkaza

Electrical Controls Engineer

Chesterton, IN

$76K - $101K/yr

Electrical Controls Engineer - Chesterton, IN This opportunity is with an established General ... The ideal candidate will have past experience designing electrical power distribution systems ...

Shades of Grey HR

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL

$90K - $110K/yr

Review previous system designs and project documentation to support new customer solutions ... Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and controls-related issues. * Travel to customer ...

PremiStar

Sr. Controls Technician

Frankfort, IL · On-site

The Senior Controls Technician will control and monitor commercial building HVAC controls system ... Please note this is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties ...

PremiStar

Sr. Controls Technician

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$59.50/hr

Program, configure, and download Building Automation Systems (BAS) for HVAC controls. * Install ... Please note this is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties ...

Actalent

Electrical Controls Engineer

Naperville, IL

$40 - $57/hr

Electrical Controls Engineer The Electrical Controls Engineer designs, programs, and supports ... This role focuses on delivering robust electrical control system designs, schematics, and software ...

AECOM

Program Controls Manager

Chicago, IL

... over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and ... Services include setting up and managing project controls systems (including setup of work ...

AECOM

Program Controls Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

... over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and ... Services include setting up and managing project controls systems (including setup of work ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Systems Designer JobsControls Systems Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Controls Systems Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$18

$40

$64

How much do controls systems designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls systems designer in Chicago, IL is $40.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $47.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controls systems designer?

A Controls Systems Designer is a professional who develops and implements systems that control machinery, processes, or devices within industries such as manufacturing, automation, and building management. They design control schemes, select hardware and software, and create detailed schematics and documentation. Their work ensures that automated systems operate safely, efficiently, and according to specifications. Controls Systems Designers often collaborate with engineers, electricians, and project managers to integrate and troubleshoot these control systems.

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

To thrive as a Controls Systems Designer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, automation principles, and control theory, typically supported by a relevant degree or certification. Proficiency with PLC programming, CAD software, SCADA systems, and industry standards like IEC 61131 is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in interdisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills ensure reliable and efficient system designs that meet client specifications and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by a controls systems designer when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Systems Designers often collaborate closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and timelines. Effective communication and a strong understanding of each discipline's needs are essential to ensure seamless integration of control systems with other project components. Additionally, adapting to evolving project specifications and resolving unforeseen technical issues require flexibility and proactive problem-solving skills. Navigating these challenges successfully helps ensure project goals are met and fosters strong professional relationships within the team.

What is the difference between Controls Systems Designer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectControls Systems DesignerControls Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are commonSimilar credentials, often with engineering degrees and certifications such as CCST or PE licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused roles often in office settings, collaborating with engineers and project managersMore fieldwork involved, including installation, testing, and troubleshooting of control systems
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors for designing control systemsApplied in similar industries, with a focus on implementation and maintenance of control systems

Controls Systems Designers primarily focus on designing and planning control systems, while Controls Engineers are more involved in implementing, testing, and maintaining these systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, often within the same industries.

What are popular job titles related to Controls Systems Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Controls Systems Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Controls Systems Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Controls Systems Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Controls Systems Designer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Controls Systems Designer job openings:

Controls Systems Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Systems Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, 11% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,247 per year, or $40 per hour.

Controls Designer - AutoCAD Electrical

General Kinematics Corporation

Crystal Lake, IL • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description

General Kinematics is the premier manufacturer of vibrating equipment for the processing of bulk

materials. From vibratory feeders to entire process systems, General Kinematics creates the solutions

customers require to process even the most difficult materials.

We are currently looking for a qualified AutoCAD Electrical Controls Designer to join our team in Crystal Lake Illinois. This position will be a part of our Controls Engineering team providing support for the following responsibilities: 


Responsibilities

  • Prepare and revise electrical drawing packages based on engineer and designer input while maintaining accuracy, quality, and project schedules.
  • Independently develop and update plans, details, one-lines, wiring diagrams, panel schedules, control panel layouts, BOM, and related industrial control project documents.
  • Coordinate drawing reviews & deliverables with electrical engineers, project managers, and other disciplines to ensure consistency and completeness.
  • Track drawing progress, communicate schedule impacts, and support timely completion of deliverables.
  • Update drawing packages as designs evolve throughout project development and installation and commissioning phases.
  • Create and verify project BoMs (Bill of Materials). As well as review panel builds with engineer and vendor (as applicable).
  • Assist with field markups, as-builts, as-shipped, and post commissioning drawings; incorporate field and red line revisions accurately.
  • Maintain organized project file structures, version control, and document management procedures per company standards.
  • Initiate & lead standard development for consistency and efficiency improvement of drawing sets.
  • Support project design schedules, equipment lists, and project documentation efforts.
  • Ability to convert CAD drawings to any other formats such as pdf, Eplan, etc.
  • Participate in quality control reviews and help maintain drafting standards and best practices.
  • Support the companies AutoCAD Electrical standards and make improvements as applicable.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications (Required)

  • Certificate or AAS in Drafting/Design, Engineering Technology, or closely related field (or equivalent practical experience).
  • Eplan competency is a plus.
  • 3+ years of electrical drafting experience in industrial projects.
  • Strong proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical, including model/paper space, annotation, sheet set management and organization, and Bill of Materials creation.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite of products.
  • Familiarity with industrial control panel design.
  • Solid understanding of drafting standards and electrical drawing conventions.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering markups, specifications, and design packages.
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and schedule management skills.
  • Clear written and verbal communication skills with the ability to coordinate across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple assignments simultaneously.

 Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with AutoDesk Vault, Inventor, or similar tools.
  • Experience with Revit or similar 3D drafting tools.
  • Familiarity with NEC, NFPA 79, UL508A, and electrical design practices.
  • Experience designing for supporting industrial manufacturing projects.
  • Exposure to industrial controls, SCADA, or instrumentation-related projects.
  • Familiarity with PLC, HMI, and industrial control system documentation.

Pay: $60,000 to $80,000 paid annually. The range provided is a guideline and not a guarantee of compensation. Other factors that are involved in offer decisions include, and are not limited to a candidate's experience, qualifications, geography, and internal equity.


Benefits: The position also comes with an annual profit-sharing incentive bonus payment. Our benefit programs provide choice and flexibility to meet the needs of you and your family. This includes health and well-being, financial planning tools, career development, PTO, and more.  

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential

functions of the job. 


EOE M/F/D/V 

Apply