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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Sterling, IL (NOW HIRING)

CivicMinds, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Sterling, IL Type: Full-time | On-site Position Summary: Work under the direction of the project managers to create PLC & HMI applications for weighing and batching or ...

Leggett & Platt

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

As an Electrical Controls Engineer you will have the opportunity to safely produce high quality products. Your contributions will have a direct impact on the business by providing leadership and ...

Leggett & Platt

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL · On-site

$75K - $101K/yr

As an Electrical Controls Engineer you will have the opportunity to safely produce high quality products. Your contributions will have a direct impact on the business by providing leadership and ...

Leggett & Platt

Electrical Controls Engineer

Sterling, IL

$75K - $101K/yr

As an Electrical Controls Engineer you will have the opportunity to safely produce high quality products. Your contributions will have a direct impact on the business by providing leadership and ...

Constellation Energy

I&C Electrical Engineer

Chana, IL · On-site

$89K - $154K/yr

The Instruments and Controls Electrical Engineer position is based out of our Byron Clean Energy facility in Byron, IL. Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion ...

Constellation Energy

I&C Electrical Engineer

Polo, IL · On-site

$89K - $154K/yr

The Instruments and Controls Electrical Engineer position is based out of our Byron Clean Energy facility in Byron, IL. Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion ...

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

Erie, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

This Engineering role can be filled at the Entry, Mid-level, or Senior Engineer level. Please see ... controls) when needed. * Experience with transformers and high voltage power electrical systems

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

Thomson, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

This Engineering role can be filled at the Entry, Mid-level, or Senior Engineer level. Please see ... controls) when needed. * Experience with transformers and high voltage power electrical systems

Constellation Energy

Electrical Engineer

Albany, IL · On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

This Engineering role can be filled at the Entry, Mid-level, or Senior Engineer level. Please see ... controls) when needed. * Experience with transformers and high voltage power electrical systems

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Albany, IL

$93K - $111K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Walnut, IL

$93K - $112K/yr

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

US Navy

Nuclear Engineer

Erie, IL

$93K - $112K/yr

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

Nestle

Controls Technical Specialist I

Clinton, IA

$70K - $97K/yr

Configure, program, and troubleshoot Programmable Logic Controls (PLC) * Perform preventive maintenance for controls and organize electrical/control parts inventory * Provide programming and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsEngineer Controls Engineer JobsEngineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Sterling, IL

Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Sterling, IL salary details

$52.1K

$91.4K

$124K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Sterling, IL is $91,433.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,100.00 and $102,300.00 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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Engineer Controls Engineer jobs near you
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc

Sterling, IL

$79K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Controls Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will work closely with Project Managers to design and develop PLC and HMI applications for weighing, batching, and material handling systems. You will also support electrical design, system testing, and customer startup activities.

This position offers a mix of in-house engineering work and hands-on field involvement, including system commissioning and troubleshooting.

Principal Responsibilities:

Create well documented approval packages that include

  • Sequence of Operations
  • Front panel layouts
  • Equipment and I/O lists

PLC and HMI programming

Conduct in-house checkout of completed systems

Assist Production Technicians as needed with installation of components

Write detailed instruction manual for completed project

Communicate and request technical information with vendors and customers

Research new technology available in market

Assist customers with onsite and phone troubleshooting and system start up.

Assist with creating and updating production ready drawings when needed using E-Plan or DraftSight

Skills:

Accuracy and high attention to detail

Electrical aptitude

Software/Logic aptitude

Time management skills

Excellent verbal and written grammar skills

Problem solving and troubleshooting ability

Knowledge, Education or Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Experience with Allen Bradley hardware

  • PLC, CompactLogix, ControlLogix, VFD, and Soft Starters

Experience with Rockwell Software products

  • Studio 5000, RSLogix, FactoryTalk Studio ME/SE

Experience in CAD software, E-Plan, DraftSight or AutoCAD preferred

Experience with Inductive Automation Ignition software is a plus

Some exposure to structured text programming

Familiar with basic industrial controls and sensors including Loadcells, Weight Indicators, Pressure Sensors, Level Sensors, Limit Switches, Solenoids, etc.

Characteristics Required:

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Travel enthusiastic

Dependable

Flexible to changing priorities and routines

Physical Requirements:

Long periods of standing or sitting, with extended periods of work at a computer

Squatting, lifting and stretching

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