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Program Controls Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL ยท On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Program and support Automation Direct / DirectLOGIC PLCs or comparable PLC platforms. * Design and ... Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and controls-related issues. * Travel to customer ...

Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL ยท On-site

$83K - $107K/yr

We are seeking a talented Controls Engineer to design, program, and support custom automation systems for a variety of industrial applications. This role will be responsible for developing PLC and ...

Controls Engineer

Normal, IL ยท On-site

$92K - $130K/yr

Maintain PLC documentation upon receipt from equipment suppliers and an archive of PLC programs & machine controls drawings in an electronic format for the entire facility * Maintain, troubleshoot ...

Controls Engineer

Mount Zion, IL ยท On-site +1

$83K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer/ PLC Programmer Controls Engineer must be well versed in control systems. This ... Ability to program from scratch. * Electrical design and hardware specification. * Design and ...

Controls Engineer

Freeport, IL ยท On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Controls Engineer Controls Engineer Position Overview We are seeking a Controls Engineer to design ... Design, program, and implement Allen-Bradley PLC logic (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix ...

Controls Engineer

Freeport, IL ยท On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Controls Engineer Controls Engineer Position Overview We are seeking a Controls Engineer to design ... Design, program, and implement Allen-Bradley PLC logic (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, MicroLogix ...

Controls Engineer

Mount Zion, IL ยท On-site +1

$83K - $107K/yr

Controls Engineer/ PLC Programmer Controls Engineer must be well versed in control systems. This ... Ability to program from scratch. * Electrical design and hardware specification. * Design and ...

Controls Engineers

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$160K/yr

Controls Engineer - Automation Location: Elgin, IL Job Type: Full-Time Compensation: Up to $160,000 ... Program and configure automation systems including: * PLCs * HMIs / SCADA * Servo systems

Electrical & Controls Engineer

Virginia, IL ยท On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Develop and troubleshoot DDC/PLC controls programs and control loops. * Design electrical schematics, controls layouts, and parts lists for custom equipment. * Research and implement controls ...

Controls Engineer

Yorkville, IL ยท On-site

$135K - $159K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support and enhance automation systems across our hydroponic ... Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems * Develop electrical schematics, panel layouts ...

Controls Engineer

Yorkville, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

We are seeking a Controls Engineer to support and enhance automation systems across our hydroponic ... Program and configure PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA systems * Develop electrical schematics, panel layouts ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Elgin, IL ยท On-site

$55.29 - $60.10/hr

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 ...

Controls Technician

Frankfort, IL ยท On-site

$50 - $57/hr

The Controls Technician will program, install, troubleshoot and providing engineering assistance on building automation projects and service calls. The manufacture lines that we install are Honeywell ...

Controls Engineer

East Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Controls Engineer East Peoria, IL - Direct Hire Productive Resources (www.productiveresources.com ... Develop PLC and HMI SCADA programs using industry-standard programming languages to control ...

Showing results 41-60

Program Controls information

See Illinois salary details

$52.3K

$95.4K

$129.4K

How much do program controls jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for program controls in Illinois is $95,387.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $112,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is program controls?

Program controls refer to the processes, tools, and techniques used to plan, monitor, and manage the performance of large projects or programs. This includes overseeing scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and reporting to ensure that the project stays on track and meets its objectives. Program controls professionals play a critical role in identifying potential issues early and providing actionable insights to project managers and stakeholders.

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

To thrive as a Program Controls professional, you need strong analytical skills, project management knowledge, and a background in engineering, construction, or business, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with project management software such as Primavera P6, MS Project, and tools for cost control and scheduling, as well as certifications like PMP or CCP, is commonly required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills for managing project risks and collaborating with stakeholders. These competencies are essential to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in line with organizational objectives.

How does a program controls professional typically collaborate with project managers and other stakeholders?

Program Controls professionals work closely with project managers, finance teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that projects stay on schedule and within budget. They provide critical data analysis, reporting, and forecasting to inform decision-making, and often facilitate meetings to discuss project status, risks, and resource allocation. Effective communication and collaboration are key, as Program Controls professionals must translate complex data into actionable insights for non-technical team members. This cross-functional interaction helps align project objectives with organizational goals and ensures transparency across all levels of the project.

What is the difference between Program Controls vs Cost Analyst?

AspectProgram ControlsCost Analyst
Required CredentialsProject management certifications, PMP often preferredFinance or accounting degrees, certifications like CPC or CMA
Work EnvironmentProject offices, construction sites, engineering firmsFinance departments, consulting firms, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, aerospace, defense, engineering projectsCorporate finance, government contracting, consulting
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on project schedule, scope, and risk managementFocuses on budgeting, cost analysis, and financial reporting

Program Controls and Cost Analysts both play vital roles in project management but focus on different aspects. Program Controls oversees project schedules, scope, and risk, ensuring projects stay on track. Cost Analysts concentrate on budgeting, cost tracking, and financial analysis to control project expenses. While they collaborate closely, their core responsibilities and skill sets differ, making each role essential for successful project delivery.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Controls jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Program Controls jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Program Controls jobs in Illinois?

For Program Controls jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Program Controls job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,387 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Cary, IL โ€ข On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Job Description
This position does not offer employment visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship.
Job Title: PLC & Automation Engineer
Location: Cary, IL
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Reports To: Head Engineer / Engineering Leadership
Travel: Approximately 20% travel for customer site startups, troubleshooting, training, and service support (typically about once per month depending on project volume).
Compensation: $90,000 - $110,000 per year, based on experience
Benefits:
  • Medical and Dental. We cover 100% of employee and 50% of family coverage. We don't offer vision or life insurance at this time.
  • Simple IRA with 3% employer contribution.
  • PTO - 3 weeks for the first 10 Years.
Job Summary
Ross and White Company is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to support the design, programming, troubleshooting, startup, and continuous improvement of custom heavy-duty vehicle wash systems.
This position works closely with the company's senior engineer to support day-to-day engineering operations, develop control systems, troubleshoot equipment, assist with customer installations, and help improve existing products. The ideal candidate combines strong PLC and controls experience with mechanical aptitude and enjoys working in a collaborative, non-corporate manufacturing environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop, modify, and troubleshoot PLC and HMI programs for custom wash systems.
  • Program and support Automation Direct / DirectLOGIC PLCs or comparable PLC platforms.
  • Design and integrate electrical control systems including relays, motor starters, sensors, VFDs, and related components.
  • Review previous system designs and project documentation to support new customer solutions.
  • Collaborate with sales and project teams to understand customer requirements.
  • Review AutoCAD drawings to verify layouts, dimensions, and system functionality.
  • Diagnose and resolve electrical, mechanical, and controls-related issues.
  • Travel to customer locations for equipment startup, commissioning, testing, troubleshooting, and operator training.
  • Assist with customer training during new equipment installations.
  • Support project documentation, bills of materials, and quotation development.
  • Work closely with engineering, production, service, sales, and leadership to ensure successful project completion.
  • Recommend and implement continuous improvements to equipment and control systems.
Required Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience with PLC programming, controls, automation, or industrial troubleshooting.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude with the ability to understand complex equipment systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, blueprints, technical drawings, and system layouts.
  • Experience working with electrical control panels, relays, sensors, motor starters, VFDs, and related components.
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar drafting software.
  • Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work directly with customers during installations and service visits.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness to travel as needed.
  • Associate degree, technical school, trade school, engineering technology education, or equivalent hands-on experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Approximately 5+ years of controls, automation, or related technical experience.
  • Experience with Automation Direct / DirectLOGIC PLC systems.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, GE, or other PLC platforms.
  • Background in industrial automation, controls engineering, PLC programming, OEM equipment manufacturing, systems integration, HVAC controls, manufacturing maintenance, field service, or similar industries.
  • Experience supporting custom equipment or heavy industrial machinery.
  • Four-year engineering degree is a plus but not required.
Work Environment / Schedule
This is a full-time, on-site position based in Cary, Illinois.
The Controls Engineer works closely with engineering, production, service, sales, and leadership in a collaborative manufacturing environment. Regular travel to customer sites is required for equipment startup, testing, troubleshooting, and training.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Annual salary of $90,000 - $110,000, based on experience.
  • Medical and Dental. We cover 100% of employee and 50% of family coverage. We don't offer vision or life insurance at this time.
  • Simple IRA with 3% employer contribution.
  • PTO - 3 weeks for the first 10 Years.
EEO Statement
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.