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Entry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Gotion Inc.

Junior Controls Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

Gotion is seeking a motivated Junior Controls Engineer to join our team at our state-of-the-art ... engineering discipline. * entry level candidates are encouraged to apply. * Internship, co-op ...

Just In Time Staffing LLC

Be Seen First

Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Position: Entry- Level Manufacturing Engineer Job Type : Direct Hire Pay: $65,000 - $82,000 ... Automation & Controls * Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining automated production equipment.

ADB

Wireless Project Controls Coordinator

Lockport, IL · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

... Engineering. Our customer centric approach has ensured long term relationships with commercial ... ADB is seeking a Project Controls Coordinator to perform entry-level administrative and ...

HEICO

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Our products are used in a wide variety of industries including medical, industrial controls ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience.

Heico

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Our products are used in a wide variety of industries including medical, industrial controls ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience.

HEICO

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Our products are used in a wide variety of industries including medical, industrial controls ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience.

Heico Aerospace Corporation

Sustaining Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$94K - $116K/yr

Our products are used in a wide variety of industries including medical, industrial controls ... Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) * Entry level to 3 years work experience.

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsEntry Level Controls Engineer JobsEntry Level Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$56.7K

$99.5K

$134.9K

How much do entry level controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $99,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,000.00 and $111,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level controls engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Controls Engineer, you should have a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, basic programming skills (such as PLC or ladder logic), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industrial automation tools like Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), and SCADA systems is typically expected. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills make candidates stand out in this role. These skills ensure you can efficiently design, troubleshoot, and implement control systems that are safe, reliable, and meet client specifications.

What is an entry level controls engineer?

An Entry Level Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and troubleshooting control systems used in manufacturing and automation. They work with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and other automation components to optimize system performance. Typical tasks include programming, testing, and debugging control systems, as well as collaborating with senior engineers and technicians. This role requires a background in electrical or mechanical engineering, along with knowledge of automation software and hardware. Entry-level positions often involve hands-on training and mentorship to build technical expertise.

What are the main types of projects or systems an entry level controls engineer typically works on?

As an Entry Level Controls Engineer, you will often be involved in designing, programming, and maintaining automated control systems for manufacturing lines, industrial machinery, or building automation projects. Your typical responsibilities might include configuring PLCs, developing HMI screens, conducting system testing, and assisting with troubleshooting both in the office and on-site. You will collaborate closely with senior engineers, project managers, and technicians to ensure projects are delivered on time and meet quality standards. This hands-on experience gives you valuable exposure to different industries and technologies, laying the groundwork for future specialization or advancement within controls engineering.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings:

Entry Level Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $99,485 per year, or $47.8 per hour.

Junior Controls Engineer

Gotion Inc.

Manteno, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA, currently building a Manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL and has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route.
Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to pursue a dream of global green energy together! We offer outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting and challenging working environment. Everyone is highly valued and plays a vital role in the growth of our organization.
Gotion is seeking a motivated Junior Controls Engineer to join our team at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience supporting automated manufacturing equipment and production processes in a fast-paced battery manufacturing environment.
The Junior Controls Engineer will work closely with experienced engineers, maintenance technicians, and production teams to support equipment performance, troubleshoot control systems, improve manufacturing processes, and contribute to automation projects. This role offers significant opportunities for learning and professional development in controls engineering, PLC programming, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Responsibilities
  • Assist in supporting day-to-day manufacturing operations to ensure safe, stable, and efficient production processes.
  • Help monitor equipment performance and identify opportunities to improve yield, throughput, and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, and Maintenance teams to troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
  • Support the development and maintenance of control systems, including PLC programs, HMIs, and industrial automation equipment.
  • Assist with equipment startups, commissioning activities, and production line qualifications.
  • Participate in root cause investigations and corrective action efforts to resolve manufacturing and equipment issues.
  • Help create and maintain technical documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures, and troubleshooting guides.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on process optimization, quality enhancement, and waste reduction.
  • Work with maintenance personnel to diagnose and resolve electrical and control system issues.
  • Assist with data collection, analysis, and reporting to support manufacturing performance improvements.
  • Participate in automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 projects as assigned.
  • Provide training support to production personnel on equipment operation and process changes.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • entry level candidates are encouraged to apply.
  • Internship, co-op, academic project, or up to 2 years of experience in manufacturing, automation, controls, or a related engineering field.
  • Exposure to industrial automation, manufacturing equipment, or process improvement projects is preferred.
  • Basic understanding of PLC programming and industrial control systems.
  • Familiarity with Siemens PLCs, Allen-Bradley PLCs, or similar automation platforms is a plus.
  • Understanding of electrical schematics, sensors, motors, and industrial equipment.
  • Exposure to HMI systems and industrial communication networks such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or Profinet is preferred.
  • Interest in robotics, machine vision, and automated manufacturing technologies.
  • Basic knowledge of troubleshooting methodologies and problem-solving techniques.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Internship or project experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with robotics, automation, or controls-related coursework.
  • Familiarity with data analysis and continuous improvement concepts.
  • Strong desire to learn and grow within a manufacturing engineering organization.

The U.S. base salary range for this full-time position is $60,000.00 -$70,000.00, plus eligibility for bonus and benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by factors such as the role, level, and geographic location. The range listed in the job posting represents the minimum and maximum target salaries for this position across all U.S. locations. Actual compensation within the range will be influenced by the specific work location, along with factors such as job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter will provide more details about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Please note that the listed compensation reflects the base salary only and does not include bonus or benefits.
Gotion Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve, cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.
We provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), parental status, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other characteristic protected by law.
At Gotion Inc., we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

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