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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Develop Programmable Logical Control (PLC) programs * Maintain product develop schedules and cost ... controls/controllers * Proficient with AutoCAD Electrical or other related electrical CAD systems

SUMMARY The Senior Controls Engineer plays a critical role in designing, developing, and implementing advanced control systems for industrial automation projects. This position focuses on integrating ...

This position works closely with the company's senior engineer to support day-to-day engineering ... The ideal candidate combines strong PLC and controls experience with mechanical aptitude and enjoys ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$71.2K

$113.4K

$152.2K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Elgin, IL is $113,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,900.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior controls engineer?

Senior Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, or automation equipment. They are responsible for programming controllers (such as PLCs), troubleshooting control system issues, and ensuring optimal system performance and safety. Senior Controls Engineers often lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with other departments to integrate new technologies. Their expertise is crucial for streamlining production, reducing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What are the typical responsibilities of a senior controls engineer in a manufacturing environment?

As a Senior Controls Engineer in a manufacturing setting, you can expect to lead the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automation systems such as PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA. Your responsibilities often include overseeing control system upgrades, optimizing equipment for efficiency, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. You will regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, production, and IT—to implement solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives. Managing complex projects and mentoring junior engineers are also common aspects of the role.

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

To thrive as a Senior Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and several years of experience in industrial automation. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and excellent communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the effective design, implementation, and troubleshooting of complex control systems, which are critical for operational safety, efficiency, and project success.

What is the difference between Senior Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectSenior Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience, possibly certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, troubleshooting, project leadership in industrial or manufacturing settingsImplementing control systems, programming, testing, and maintenance in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control companiesSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles within the same sectors

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. Senior Controls Engineers typically lead projects, design complex systems, and mentor junior staff, while Controls Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the senior role involves more leadership and advanced technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL?

The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL?

For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Elgin, IL are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,406 per year, or $54.5 per hour.

ILUS - Senior Controls Engineer II

Daifuku

Bolingbrook, IL

$95K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Daifuku rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 490 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Overview

Designs control systems for industrial material handling solutions. Includes concepting new ideas, developingspecifications and requirements, implementing proof of concepts and prototypes, performing high level anddetailed designing, and leading the transistion to manufacturing. Leads large projects or multiple smallerprojects and provides direction and training to less-senior associates.

Responsibilities
  • Lead in the concepting and design of products that add value and are a solution to customers andmarket needs
  • Lead and collaborate with others on the development team to develop products
  • Ensure products developed fit with current and future manufacturing operations
  • Ensure products developed meet competitive and market demands for performance and cost
  • Specify and develop a sequence of operations of automated equipment
  • Prepares schematics and specifications for control panel fabrication
  • Develop Programmable Logical Control (PLC) programs
  • Maintain product develop schedules and cost estimates
  • Follow established engineering standards and best practices including software revision control
  • Perform prototype development and testingPerform on site beta testing to ensure safety, reliability, and other performance metrics are met
  • Investigate product issues in the field and determine root cause
  • Domestic travel up to 50% in North America, mostly within the Continental United States.
Qualifications

Education and Experience Requirements: 

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related engineering field, or equivalent experience
  • Minimum of 6 years of related experience
  • Experience with sortation and conveyance equipment or robotics design required
  • Experience with Allen Bradley control software and tools required
  • Knowledge of electrical and safety codes for machine and equipment design including execution of risk assessments required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Requirements:

  • In-depth knowledge of industrial automation systems, including HMI and SCADA systems, AllenBradley controls/controllers
  • Proficient with AutoCAD Electrical or other related electrical CAD systems
  • Ability to lead a team and accomplish project goals effectively
  • Ability to multi-task while maintaining attention to detail and deadlines
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Team-oriented and collaborative
  • Creative-thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to learn new technologies
  • Self-motivated
  • Ability to work non-traditional hours
  • Must be able to speak, read and understand the English language

Benefit Information:

  • Many great benefits to include Health/Vision/Dental/401k with Employer Match
  • FSA/HSA Options
  • Employee Assistance Program 

EOE Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans

Federal Contractor

If you need assistance applying to an open position online, please email HR-ILUS@daifukuna.com

Employment Type: OTHER

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