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Plc Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

This position focuses on integrating robotic systems, PLC programming, HMI development, and motion ... in controls engineering with a focus on automation and robotics * Hands-on experience with PLCs ...

Controls Engineer II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

As a Controls Engineer II, you will design and implement electrical controls systems for automated ... Develops standard PLC programs for real-time control of automated equipment and collection of ...

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Conduct planning for weekly, monthly, and annual maintenance activities related to controls ... Working knowledge of PLC systems including programming and troubleshooting. Preferred: * Bachelor ...

2ND SHIFT CONTROLS ENGINEER - CHICAGO, ILLINOIS A Leading Automotive Supplier in Chicago, Illinois ... Maintain PLC based control systems for manufacturing automation and instrumentation. Guide designs ...

Works under limited supervision and exercises independent judgment. 5 years minimum automated controls design experience in programing PLC's and HMI's. Experience with AB and Siemens Motion Control ...

Electrical Engineer/Controls Eng 2

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Works under limited supervision and exercises independent judgment. 5 years minimum automated controls design experience in programing PLC's and HMI's. Experience with AB and Siemens Motion Control ...

Sr. Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$117K - $137K/yr

Join our Team! Sr. Controls Engineer is capable of leading the electrical and/or controls design ... Write and debug PLC, robot, machine vision, and PC-based object-oriented code. * Program HMI ...

Showing results 21-40

Plc Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$57.2K

$94.9K

$127.8K

How much do plc controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $94,876.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PLC controls engineer?

PLC Controls Engineers are professionals who design, program, and maintain programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used to automate industrial processes. They develop control systems that allow machinery and production lines to operate efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting issues, upgrading systems, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. PLC Controls Engineers often work closely with other engineers and technicians to optimize manufacturing operations.

What does a PLC controls engineer do?

As a PLC controls engineer, your primary responsibilities include the setup, programming, testing, and implementation of computer control systems used for production automation and industrial equipment design. Your duties are to implement programs on programmable logic controllers and test whether industrial computers process information and function correctly. You debug issues and troubleshoot problems that have non-standard solutions. In this role, you also assess the functionality of electrical, mechanical, and pneumatic systems and may work in numerous fields, including aviation, robotics, energy production, and manufacturing.

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

To thrive as a PLC Controls Engineer, you need strong knowledge of electrical engineering, automation systems, and proficiency in programming PLCs, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC platforms (such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Schneider), HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networking is essential, and certifications like Siemens S7 or Rockwell Automation can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are critical for designing, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated processes to ensure efficiency and reliability in industrial environments.

What are some typical challenges a PLC controls engineer might face when working on a new automation project?

PLC Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with existing machinery, troubleshooting unexpected equipment behavior, and ensuring minimal downtime during installation or upgrades. Communication with cross-functional teams—including electricians, mechanical engineers, and production managers—is essential to align project goals and resolve issues efficiently. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing project requirements and keeping up with the latest PLC programming standards are common aspects of the role.

What is the difference between Plc Controls Engineer vs Automation Technician?

AspectPlc Controls EngineerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical/Automation Engineering, PLC certificationsTechnical diploma or associate degree, PLC training
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting PLC systems in industrial settingsInstallation, maintenance, and repair of automation equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, process control, automation firmsFactory floors, maintenance departments

The Plc Controls Engineer focuses on designing and programming PLC systems, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles installation and troubleshooting, often with technical diplomas. Both roles are vital in industrial automation but differ in scope and responsibilities.

Are Plc Controls Engineers in demand?

Plc Controls Engineers are in high demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing, processing, and industrial facilities. They typically require knowledge of PLC programming, electrical systems, and control hardware, and job opportunities are expected to grow as industries continue to automate processes.

How much does a Plc Controls Engineer make?

A PLC Controls Engineer's average salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Professionals with certifications in PLC programming and automation may earn higher wages, especially in specialized or high-demand sectors.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Plc Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,876 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Controls Engineer (Mid-level)

Dubak Electrical Group

La Grange Park, IL • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Dubak Electrical Group LLC is seeking a skilled and experienced Controls Engineer due to growth and expansion. The Controls Engineer will design, develop, and maintain control systems for our manufacturing and automation processes. The ideal candidate will have experience in PLC programming, HMI development, and electrical design, ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and safety of our systems. Compensation and responsibilities will be based on experience, technical capability, and demonstrated competency.


Controls Engineer (Mid-level)

Typical Compensation Range: $85,000 - $110,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications

Experience: Typical 2-8 years

  • Independently executes design, programming, and commissioning tasks
  • Works under the direction of senior-level engineers and engineering manager
  • Owns subsystems or small projects
  • Regular client and field interaction
  • Performs service call for local clients
  • Ability to maintain project schedules
  • Contributes to project planning and execution
  • Ensures efficiency and client value
  • Writes technical scope of work and ability to estimate small controls projects


Primary position responsibilities, not limited to other tasks that may be assigned according to the project or needs of our client:

  • Electrical & Controls Design capability and working knowledge using AutoCAD
  • Develop, procurement, and material tracking utilizing control system bill of materials.
  • Experience and working knowledge of UL508A Standards
  • Design and review electrical schematics and control panel layouts.
  • Conduct testing, validation, and debugging of control systems.
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.
  • Provide technical support and training to maintenance and operations teams
  • Develop and implement automation and control strategies for manufacturing processes.
  • Perform system integration, including motor controls, sensors, and network communication.
  • Perform programming and troubleshooting of PLC's, HMI's, VFD's, Motion Control Systems, Safety Systems, Instrumentation, and Process Controls
  • Ability to troubleshoot, install, maintain, repair, program, and specify for new installation or replacement of AC drives, control panel hardware, field instrumentation, and legacy PLC systems
  • Troubleshooting control system issues, helping support existing client applications, general client communication
  • Control System Programming: SCADA, HMI, and PLC code development
  • Develop functional design specifications, system manuals, FAT/SAT documentation, and submittals.
  • Lead control and automation projects utilizing skills in client technical sales, scope development, project engineering
  • Work within project teams consisting of clients, electrical engineers, control system programmers, and information system programmers to deliver integrated automation solutions
  • Provide plant check-out, commissioning, and start-up services at customer sites
  • Protection relay and power meter design, installation, and commissioning
  • Ability to mentor other engineers on the team
  • Review, modify, amend specifications and clauses
  • Traveling for this position is required, estimated at 30%-50%


Qualifications for this position:

The level of responsibility, independence, and technical depth associated with the qualifications below will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and demonstrated competence.

  • Degree or certification in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
  • Mid-level experience, typically 2-8 years, based on demonstrated technical competency and independence
  • Mid-level experience in engineering and development of integrated controls system solutions for container handling, packaging systems, line integration, batch or process-based manufacturing systems, control panel design, power metering
  • Experience or knowledge in HMI programming.
    • Primary HMI systems include Allen Bradley / Rockwell FactoryTalk View, ME/SE and Ignition
  • Experience or knowledge in PLC programming.
    • Primary PLC systems include Allen Bradley / Rockwell RSLogix 5/500, RSLogix 5000, Studio 5000 and Connected Components Workbench (CCW)
  • Familiarity with control panel design and electrical schematics
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for collaboration with clients, engineers, electricians, and operations personnel.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office products
  • Familiarity with BlueBeam
  • Ability of working independently and within a team
  • Ability to interpret plans and specifications
  • Understanding of robotics, vision systems, and motion control is a plus
  • Final position level, title, and compensation will be determined based on experience, technical capability, and ability to perform independently.


Benefits:

  • Competitive Salary
  • Insurance (Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Short Term Disability, Long Term Disability)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) and Profit Sharing
  • Training Reimbursement Program
  • Positive Work/Life Balance
  • Opportunity for Advancement


Dubak Electrical Group, LLC and its affiliates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, membership or activity in a local commission, veteran status, age, or any other status protected by law.