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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

Transportation Engineering * Junior Planners ... Project Controls And we're backing that growth with more than good intentions: eligible roles come ...

Nuclear Engineer

Rantoul, IL

$91K - $109K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Ogden, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Saybrook, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Homer, IL

$92K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mahomet, IL

$91K - $110K/yr

Job Title: Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active ... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ...

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Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$55.1K

$96.7K

$131.2K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Champaign, IL is $96,715.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $108,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable automation solutions in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Controls Engineers face when working on automation projects?

Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues, and ensuring that all control systems meet safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to resolve technical problems efficiently. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving industry standards and technologies is crucial for long-term success in this role.

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

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesPower plants, electronics, telecommunications, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower systems, electronics, telecommunications

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial environments, but their primary responsibilities and areas of expertise differ.

What are Controls Engineers?

Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems used to control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with hardware and software to ensure automated systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Controls Engineers often program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), develop control algorithms, and troubleshoot automation issues. Their work is critical in optimizing production processes and integrating new technologies within industrial environments.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation and control systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles are often found in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, where complex systems and advanced technical expertise are required.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior control engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve leadership responsibilities, working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing, and may require expertise in PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages such as Python or C++.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced control engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working in specialized industries like aerospace or oil and gas, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Skills in troubleshooting, programming, and understanding system integration are essential in this role.
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What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:
Strategic Electrical Engineer

Strategic Electrical Engineer

Constellation Energy

Weldon, IL • On-site

$122K - $154K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Constellation Energy rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.

The Strategic Electrical Engineer position is based out of our Clinton Clean Energy Center in Clinton, IL.


Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

*****************This Engineering role can be filled at Entry-level, Mid-level or Senior Engineer level. Please see minimum qualifications list below for each level*********************************** 

Entry Level - $89,000 

Mid Level - $92,700-$114,000 

Sr Level - $122,400-$154,000 

Ranges are per year based on experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes bonus and 401K 

Primary Purpose of Position

Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under direct supervision, in support of nuclear plant operations.

Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Assure all engineering products prepared are in accordance with applicable safety analyses, industry codes, and all regulatory requirements.
  • Perform engineering and technical tasks as assigned by supervision.
  • Support engineering work functions.
  • All other job assignments and/or duties pursuant to company policy or as directed by management to include but not limited to: (Emergency Response duties and/or coverage, Department duty coverage and/or call out, and positions outside of department in support of outage activities etc.)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Entry Level E01 Engineer &ndash New Graduate 

  • B.S  in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Nuclear) 
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Mid-level E02 Engineer

  • B.S. in Engineering, a minimum 2 years Nuclear experience or related engineering experience
  • Must meet additional requirements as outlined in ANSI/ANS-3.1-2014 Standard, "Selection, Qualification, and Training of Personnel for Nuclear Power Plants"
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Senior E03 Engineer

  • B.S. in Engineering, a minimum 5 years Nuclear experience or related engineering experience
  • Must meet additional requirements as outlined in ANSI/ANS-3.1-2014 Standard, "Selection, Qualification, and Training of Personnel for Nuclear Power Plants"
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

Preferred Qualifications

BS Electrical Engineering Degree 

Experience with digital controls

Engineer in Training Certification


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