Job Description Controls Engineer Location: Greater Chicago Area Position Type: Full-Time | Onsite with Travel (~25%) Industry: Industrial Machinery / OEM Manufacturing Position Overview A leading industrial equipment manufacturer (OEM) in the Greater Chicago area is seeking a Controls Engineer to join their engineering team. This role is responsible for owning projects from initial concept through commissioning and start-up, working across both office and field environments. You will play a key role in designing, programming, and delivering complete control systems for complex industrial machinery, ensuring high performance, reliability, and adherence to industry standards.
Key Responsibilities Manage controls projects from kickoff through commissioning and final startup Design electrical control systems and define overall system architecture Specify components in accordance with industry standards and project requirements Lead and oversee drafting/design teams for schematic and layout development Supervise panel fabrication within an onsite manufacturing facility Develop and implement PLC and HMI programs Configure and program VFDs and servo motion control systems Perform system testing, simulation, and validation Commission and start up equipment at customer sites Troubleshoot and resolve electrical and controls issues in the field Travel overnight as required (~25%) Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Mechanical Engineering (BSME), or related technical discipline 5+ years of hands-on controls engineering experience, including: Electrical schematic design PLC programming HMI development VFD setup and parameterization I/O configuration and checkout PID loop setup and tuning Strong mechanical aptitude and hands-on troubleshooting ability Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills High attention to detail with a focus on quality execution Valid driver's license and ability to travel Technical Skills & Experience PLC/HMI Platforms: Rockwell Automation (Studio 5000, FactoryTalk SE/ME) Siemens (TIA Portal, WinCC) Wonderware, Ignition Hardware & Systems: Allen-Bradley ControlLogix PowerFlex VFDs Kinetix Motion Systems Siemens G120 & S120 Drives Distributed I/O (Allen-Bradley & Siemens) Preferred Qualifications Experience with high-speed motion control systems PLC-based safety system design and programming Advanced VFD control (coordination, registration) Experience with cascading or nested PID loop tuning Ability to develop and interpret P&IDs Familiarity with UL 508A and SCCR standards Prior experience mentoring or leading junior engineers