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Junior Controls Engineer Jobs in Gary, IN (NOW HIRING)

Sr Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$98.10 - $134.81/hr

Senior Industrial Controls Engineer** to lead the design and development of industrial control ... Review and approve designs from junior engineers and designers**Production & Testing Support*

Senior Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$107K - $140K/yr

... controls, sensors, drives and industrial networks. Manage and coordinate automation projects ... Provide technical direction, feedback and coaching to junior automation technicians and support ...

Electrical Engineer III

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$90 - $120/hr

As an Electrical Engineer III, you will design and implement electrical controls systems for ... Leads training/mentoring of co-op personnel and junior engineers on design process, system ...

Project Engineer

Hammond, IN ยท On-site +1

$90K - $115K/yr

Work with Project Support Engineers or junior engineering resources on larger projects. Provide ... Mechanical/Electrical Engineer Manufacturing/Process Engineer Controls Engineer Designer/Drafter ...

As a Senior Electrical Engineer, you will design and implement electrical controls systems for ... Leads training/mentoring of co-op personnel and junior engineers on design process, system ...

You will work closely with Mechanical Engineering, Controls Engineering and Project Management ... Provide leadership to junior staff members * Report status of projects to engineering manager ...

Lead Substation Engineer 1 - Grid

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$118.02 - $180.31/hr

Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design efforts, including providing guidance with the coordination of detailed design phases for all ...

Lead Substation Engineer 1 - Grid

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$105K - $139K/yr

Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design efforts, including providing guidance with the coordination of detailed design phases for all ...

Lead Substation Engineer 2 - Grid

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$105K - $139K/yr

Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design efforts, including providing guidance with the coordination of detailed design phases for all ...

Lead Substation Engineer 2 - Grid

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$105K - $139K/yr

Guide junior and senior-level engineers and designers in protection and controls engineering design efforts, including providing guidance with the coordination of detailed design phases for all ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Controls Engineer information

See Gary, IN salary details

$33.3K

$71.4K

$109K

How much do junior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior controls engineer in Gary, IN is $71,447.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,300.00 and $79,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a junior controls engineer?

Junior Controls Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, and maintaining control systems used to operate machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers to program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), troubleshoot system issues, and ensure that automated systems are functioning correctly. Their role often involves hands-on work with electrical components and software, as well as collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve efficiency and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Controls Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering and a solid grasp of automation principles. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and CAD software, along with relevant certifications like Siemens or Rockwell, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These competencies are crucial for designing reliable control systems and ensuring smooth operation in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by junior controls engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world industrial environments?

Junior Controls Engineers often find that real-world industrial environments present challenges not commonly encountered in academic settings, such as working with legacy systems, managing tight project deadlines, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. Learning to troubleshoot hardware and software issues in live production environments can be daunting, especially when unexpected problems arise. Additionally, adapting to rigorous safety standards and documentation requirements is crucial. However, support from senior engineers and ongoing training typically help new hires navigate these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Junior Controls Engineer vs Controls Technician?

AspectJunior Controls EngineerControls Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls EngineeringTechnical diploma or associate's degree in electrical or controls technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and troubleshooting of control systems, often in office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of control systems on-site in industrial environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, and engineering firmsIndustrial plants, factories, and automation service providers

While both roles involve working with control systems, Junior Controls Engineers focus on design and development, whereas Controls Technicians primarily handle installation and maintenance. The roles often overlap in industry and credentials but differ in daily responsibilities and work settings.

How to become a junior controls engineer with no experience?

To become a junior controls engineer with no experience, focus on gaining foundational knowledge in electrical or mechanical systems through relevant coursework or online training. Internships, entry-level technician roles, or certifications in PLC programming and control systems can help build practical skills and improve employability in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Gary, IN?

For Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Gary, IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Gary, IN look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Controls Engineer jobs in Gary, IN are:

What cities near Gary, IN are hiring for Junior Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Gary, IN with the most Junior Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Controls Engineer job openings in Gary, IN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,447 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Sr Automation Engineer

Motion

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$98.10 - $134.81/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design industrial control panels in compliance with UL508A, NEC, and NFPA 79

  • Collaborate with panel shop personnel during fabrication and develop Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) procedures

  • Support onsite installation, system startup, troubleshooting, and customer design reviews


Job description

## Sr Automation EngineerApplyremote type: On-Sitelocations: Chicago, IL, USAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: R25\_0000042654**Position Overview**We are seeking an experienced **Senior Industrial Controls Engineer** to lead the design and development of industrial control panels and related automation systems in a panel design and build environment.This role focuses heavily on electrical design, panel layout, component selection, UL508A compliance, and supporting fabrication and testing activities. The position includes **occasional travel** to customer sites for field verification, startup, commissioning, and technical support.The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise with hands-on collaboration across engineering, production, and customers to deliver high-quality, compliant control solutions.**Key Responsibilities****Electrical & Controls Design*** Design industrial control panels in compliance with **UL508A, NEC, and NFPA 79*** Develop:* Electrical schematics* Panel layouts* Power distribution designs* I/O lists and wiring diagrams* Bills of Materials (BOMs)* Perform load calculations, SCCR analysis, and arc flash considerations* Select and specify components including:* PLCs and remote I/O* HMIs* VFDs and motor starters* Power supplies and protection devices**Standards & Compliance*** Ensure designs meet applicable codes and customer specifications* Support UL inspections and maintain compliance documentation* Maintain and improve internal electrical design standards* Review and approve designs from junior engineers and designers**Production & Testing Support*** Collaborate with panel shop personnel during fabrication* Provide technical clarification and redline support* Develop and execute Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) procedures* Troubleshoot issues during build and system testing**Onsite & Field Support (Occasional Travel)*** Support onsite installation and system startup* Perform I/O checkout and commissioning* Troubleshoot field wiring and integration issues* Participate in customer design reviews and project meetings* Provide post-installation technical support as needed**Controls Programming (As Applicable)*** Develop or modify PLC and HMI programs* Validate control sequences and safety functions* Support system integration with field equipment**Required Qualifications*** Bachelorโ€™s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent experience)* 7+ years of experience in industrial control panel design* Strong knowledge of:* UL508A* NEC* NFPA 79* Experience with electrical CAD platforms (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN, or similar)* Experience performing SCCR calculations* Strong understanding of industrial control systems and field integration* Willingness to travel occasionally as project needs require**Preferred Qualifications*** UL508A MTR (Master of Record) experience* Experience with Allen-Bradley PLC systems* Familiarity with safety circuit design (Category 3/4, SIL, PL ratings)* Experience in OEM, systems integration, or custom equipment environments**Key Competencies*** Strong knowledge of electrical codes and panel standards* Detail-oriented design approach* Hands-on troubleshooting capability* Effective communication with customers and production teams* Ability to manage multiple active projects simultaneously**Work Environment*** Combination of office engineering and panel shop floor* Occasional travel to customer sites* Fast-paced, production-driven environment with project deadlines**Compensation & Benefits*** Competitive salary based on experience* Health, dental, and vision insurance* 401(k) with company match* Paid time off and holidaysPlease keep in mind that this is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. It also does not consider other components that make up the total rewards package for the position. If you are hired at Motion, your overall compensation will be determined based on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, and/or experience which may result in total compensation outside of this range.* Compensation is from $98,099 to $134,810 annually #J-18808-Ljbffr