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Electrical & Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Additionally, they will support electrical engineering efforts as they relate to facilities and ... Manage and lead controls-related projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a ... This includes the electrical control design, programming, commissioning, panel build supervision ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a ... This includes the electrical control design, programming, commissioning, panel build supervision ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Salary: Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in ... This includes the electrical control design, programming, commissioning, panel build supervision ...

Southlake Automation

Controls Engineer

Merrillville, IN

$82K - $106K/yr

Southlake Automation is seeking a full-time Controls Engineer who is interested in experiencing a ... This includes the electrical control design, programming, commissioning, panel build supervision ...

Matrix Design, LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL

$52.88 - $67.31/hr

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in electrical engineering and automation, with a ... in leading controls engineering projects with a focus on automation and robotics * Hands-on ...

MATRIX DESIGN LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL

$82K - $106K/yr

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in electrical engineering and automation, with a ... in controls engineering with a focus on automation and robotics * Hands-on experience with PLCs ...

MatrixIndustrialAutomation

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in electrical engineering and automation, with a ... in controls engineering with a focus on automation and robotics * Hands-on experience with PLCs ...

BBS Automation

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$117K - $137K/yr

Join our Team! Sr. Controls Engineer is capable of leading the electrical and/or controls design and programming of a large, custom automated assembly machine project from concept to acceptance. Has ...

Beacon Engineering Resources

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$86K - $111K/yr

Controls Engineer We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the commissioning, startup, testing, and troubleshooting of automated material handling and robotic systems. This role will work ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsElectrical & Controls Engineer JobsElectrical & Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Electrical Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.3K

$96.8K

$134.4K

How much do electrical & controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical & controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $96,793.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $110,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical & Controls Engineer?

To thrive as an Electrical & Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering principles, control systems, and automation, typically with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, AutoCAD, and relevant industry certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer) are commonly required. Problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating across teams and resolving complex technical issues. These competencies are essential to ensure reliable system performance, safety, and efficient project delivery in industrial and manufacturing environments.

What is the difference between Electrical & Controls Engineer vs Electrical Technician?

AspectElectrical & Controls EngineerElectrical Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or technical certification in electrical technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of control systems; project planningInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, industrial facilities, and engineering firmsIndustrial plants, maintenance departments, and electrical service companies

Electrical & Controls Engineers focus on designing and developing electrical control systems, requiring a bachelor's degree, while Electrical Technicians handle installation and maintenance, typically with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in industrial settings but differ in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are some common challenges Electrical & Controls Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Electrical & Controls Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, process, and software engineers on complex projects. A common challenge is ensuring seamless integration of control systems with various hardware and software components, which requires clear communication and thorough documentation. Additionally, balancing project timelines with the need for precise system testing and troubleshooting can be demanding. Being proactive in cross-functional meetings and maintaining flexibility in the face of changing project requirements are key to overcoming these challenges.
Electrical Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electrical & Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,793 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Controls Engineer

MSI Express, Inc.

Portage, IN • On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

MSI Express rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

252nd of 436 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Job Description:
ROLE PURPOSE/ POSITION SUMMARY
The Controls Engineer, will be responsible for the design, implementation, and optimization of controls and automation systems. This role involves working on a variety of industrial automation equipment, including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, and motion control systems. They will be expected to support continuous process and hybrid environments. This includes batching, blending, and material handling systems as well as discrete manufacturing equipment such as packaging equipment, robotic automation/cells. Additionally, they will support electrical engineering efforts as they relate to facilities and building automation.
KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES/PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
System Design and Integration:
  • Design and integrate control systems, including PLCs, HMIs, and motion control, for industrial automation equipment.
  • Deploy new control strategies an ever evolving environment.
  • Work on the development of automated systems from concept to implementation.

Troubleshooting and Optimization:
  • Provide advanced troubleshooting for plant floor automation equipment, identifying and resolving complex issues efficiently.
  • Optimize existing control systems for improved performance and efficiency.

Programming and Software Development:
  • Program PLCs, HMIs, robots, and other control devices to meet system requirements.
  • Collaborate with the corporate engineering team on programming and software development for new capital projects.

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement:
  • Work with reliability engineers, maintenance technicians, and cross-functional teams to support continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of new automation technologies.
  • Documentation and Record Keeping:
    • Create and maintain comprehensive documentation for control systems, including engineering drawings, programming code, and equipment records.
  • Compliance and Safety:
    • Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and safety practices in the design and implementation of control systems.

Training and Development:
  • Provide training to maintenance technicians and operators on the operation and maintenance of control systems.
  • Project Management:
    • Manage and lead controls-related projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.

Research and Technology Evaluation:
  • Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in controls and automation.

QUALIFICATIONS/ CAPABILITY PROFILE
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation, or a related field; or equivalent on the job work experience
  • 5-8 years of experience in a controls engineering role in a manufacturing environment OR 3-5 years of experience in a controls engineering role for a systems/machine integrator - Preferred

Minimum Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities
  • Solid understanding of control system design principles and industrial automation
  • Excellent programming skills for PLCs, HMIs, and robotics
  • Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings
  • Strong troubleshooting skills and knowledge of AC circuits, VFDs, low voltage control wiring, motors, panels, etc.
  • Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS)
  • Project management skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Experience with Allen Bradley control systems - Preferred
  • Strong background in process controls, remote operations, and SCADA systems - Preferred
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD for system design - Preferred

MSI Express is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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