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Manufacturing Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

TekPro

Electrical Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$55.29 - $60.10/hr

Controls EngineerAbout the Opportunity We're partnering with a well-established manufacturer of custom automated equipment that is looking to add a Controls Engineer to its growing engineering team.

Australia-Employment

Controls Engineer

Addison, IL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Controls Engineer to join our manufacturing team. This is a permanent, full-time position where you will be playing a vital role in the design, implementation ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Senior Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$89K - $117K/yr

... and discrete manufacturing environments. The Senior Controls Engineer is expected to provide ... strategic direction in the selection and deployment of automation technologies, mentor junior ...

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL

$160K/yr

... Controls Engineer to join an Automation Development team focused on designing and building custom automation and robotic equipment for high-volume manufacturing environments. This role is hands-on ...

Matrix Design, LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$52.88 - $67.31/hr

Would include integration of robots and motion control systems into custom manufacturing solutions ... in leading controls engineering projects with a focus on automation and robotics * Hands-on ...

MATRIX DESIGN LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL

$82K - $106K/yr

Integrate robotic arms and motion control systems into custom manufacturing solutions. 3. CROSS ... 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

Integrate robotic arms and motion control systems into custom manufacturing solutions. 3. CROSS ... in controls engineering with a focus on automation and robotics * Hands-on experience with PLCs ...

Clarios

Controls Engineer - 3rd Shift

Geneva, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

The Manufacturing & Controls Engineer participates as a team member in small and large projects in the Manufacturing Facility. The Engineer provides mechanical, electrical, and system design ...

1007 Clarios, LLC

Controls Engineer - 3rd Shift

Geneva, IL · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

The Manufacturing & Controls Engineer participates as a team member in small and large projects in the Manufacturing Facility. The Engineer provides mechanical, electrical, and system design ...

Venteon

2nd Shift Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K/yr

2ND SHIFT CONTROLS ENGINEER - CHICAGO, ILLINOIS A Leading Automotive Supplier in Chicago, Illinois ... Train, coach, and mentor, the electrical controls process, for manufacturing skilled trades and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsManufacturing Controls Engineer JobsManufacturing Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Manufacturing Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$67K

$94.6K

$119K

How much do manufacturing controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for manufacturing controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $94,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a manufacturing controls engineer?

A Manufacturing Controls Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining control systems that automate and optimize manufacturing processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure machinery operates efficiently, safely, and reliably. Their duties often include programming programmable logic controllers (PLCs), troubleshooting automation issues, and collaborating with other engineers to improve production workflows. Manufacturing Controls Engineers play a key role in increasing productivity, reducing costs, and maintaining product quality in industrial settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manufacturing controls engineer?

To thrive as a Manufacturing Controls Engineer, you need strong knowledge of automation systems, electrical engineering principles, and a degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and industry-standard certifications like ISA or Siemens are typically required. Problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and optimized manufacturing processes.

What are some common challenges faced by manufacturing controls engineers in coordinating with production teams?

Manufacturing Controls Engineers often face challenges in aligning automation solutions with the dynamic needs of production teams. Effective communication is essential to ensure that control systems meet both operational efficiency and safety requirements. Additionally, adapting to changes in production schedules or troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues can require quick thinking and collaboration. Engineers must balance technical demands with the practical insights of operators and maintenance staff to ensure seamless integration and minimal downtime.

What is the difference between Manufacturing Controls Engineer vs Manufacturing Process Engineer?

AspectManufacturing Controls EngineerManufacturing Process Engineer
Primary FocusDesign and implement control systems and automation for manufacturing processesOptimize manufacturing processes for efficiency, quality, and cost
Required SkillsPLC programming, control systems, automation, troubleshootingProcess analysis, Lean manufacturing, process improvement techniques
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation labsProduction floors, engineering offices
Common CertificationsControl system certifications, PLC programming certificationsSix Sigma, Lean certifications

While both roles support manufacturing operations, Manufacturing Controls Engineers focus on automation and control systems to improve production reliability, whereas Manufacturing Process Engineers work on optimizing overall manufacturing processes for efficiency and quality.

What does a manufacturing controls engineer do?

A manufacturing controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate manufacturing processes. They work with PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial software to optimize production efficiency, ensure safety, and improve quality. The role often requires knowledge of automation tools, programming skills, and adherence to industry standards.

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

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

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

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

Manufacturing Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Manufacturing Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,553 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Electrical Controls Engineer

TekPro

Elgin, IL • On-site

$55.29 - $60.10/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Controls EngineerAbout the Opportunity

We’re partnering with a well-established manufacturer of custom automated equipment that is looking to add a Controls Engineer to its growing engineering team.

This is a great opportunity for an engineer who wants to own controls projects from design and programming through testing and startup. You’ll work closely with mechanical engineering and manufacturing while getting hands-on with sophisticated automation systems.

The position offers strong technical variety and project ownership without the heavy travel requirements that often come with controls roles.

What You'll Do

  • Develop, program, and troubleshoot PLC-based control systems using Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens platforms.

  • Program and configure HMI systems for automated machinery.

  • Develop and modify electrical controls, schematics, and system documentation.

  • Integrate PLCs, HMIs, sensors, motors, drives, and other industrial control components.

  • Troubleshoot electrical and controls issues during equipment build, testing, and startup.

  • Work closely with mechanical engineering and manufacturing throughout equipment development.

  • Support equipment testing, commissioning, installation, and customer startup.

  • Provide technical support and troubleshoot controls-related issues in the field.

  • Travel approximately 10–15% for installation, startup, and customer support.

What We're Looking For

  • Experience programming Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLCs.

  • Experience with HMI programming and industrial automation.

  • Strong understanding of electrical controls, schematics, sensors, motors, VFDs, and related automation hardware.

  • Experience troubleshooting automated machinery or industrial equipment.

  • Ability to independently manage controls-related responsibilities while collaborating with a broader engineering team.

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related discipline preferred.

Why This Opportunity?

  • Work on custom automated equipment and a variety of controls projects.

  • Own projects through programming, testing, troubleshooting, and startup.

  • Limited travel of approximately 10–15%.

  • High level of technical ownership and visibility within the engineering organization.

  • Work with modern Allen-Bradley and Siemens automation platforms.

  • Join an established organization that continues to invest in its engineering and automation capabilities.

You should be proficient in:

  • PLC Troubleshooting Skills
  • Electrical Schematics
  • Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment
  • PLC Programming Experience
  • HMI

Machines & technologies you'll use:

  • Variable Frequency Drives (VFD)
  • Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) (Allen Bradley, Siemens)
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