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

The Sr. Engineer Technology I enables the full lifecycle of AbbVie's Digitalization of Software ... Drive controls automation   -- identify opportunities to automate the collection, validation, and ...

BTS Senior Engineer, Technology I

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

The Sr. Engineer Technology I enables the full lifecycle of AbbVie's Digitalization of Software ... Drive controls automation - identify opportunities to automate the collection, validation, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Gurnee, IL salary details

$69.1K

$110.1K

$147.8K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Gurnee, IL is $110,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,100.00 and $122,900.00 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 cities near Gurnee, IL are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Gurnee, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,115 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Senior Machine Design Engineer

Intertape Polymer Group (IPG)

Schaumburg, IL • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Intertape Polymer Group rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Join the IPG Team!
Are you ready to elevate your career? At IPG, we are more than just a global leader in packaging and protective solutions-we are a community that values safety, people, passion, integrity, performance, and teamwork. From tapes and films to packaging and protective products, as well as engineered coated materials and advanced packaging machinery, we develop innovative solutions that protect the world. Now, we are expanding our global team and looking for talented individuals like you!
Position Description
Title: Senior Machine Design Engineer
Department: Engineering
Immediate Supervisor: Engineering Manager
Status: Exempt Salaried
Position Purpose: We are seeking an experienced Senior Machine Design Engineer to develop custom automated packaging machinery including cartoners, case packers, palletizers, and related end-of-line equipment. In this role, you will take customer projects from an approved machine concept through detailed design and release for manufacturing. Projects range from modifications of proven machine platforms to completely new machine concepts requiring original engineering solutions. The successful candidate will be a highly capable machine designer who can work independently, make sound engineering decisions, manage multiple priorities, and deliver complete machine designs on aggressive schedules.
Work Environment
Our projects typically range from $500,000 to $2.5 million, move quickly, and involve the design and delivery of highly customized automated machinery. Engineers in this role are entrusted with significant ownership and responsibility and expected to do what is necessary to meet commitments.. The successful candidate thrives in a fast-paced, project-driven environment, enjoys solving complex engineering challenges, and is comfortable adapting to evolving priorities and schedules. Our project timelines are measured in weeks, not months.
Key Responsibilities
Machine Design and Development
  • Develop detailed mechanical designs for custom packaging machinery and automation systems.
  • Create and validate machine concepts through timing studies, motion analysis, and engineering calculations.
  • Design complete machine assemblies and mechanisms using 3D CAD software.
  • Generate production-ready 2D fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, and bills of material.
  • Ensure designs are manufacturable, serviceable, reliable, and cost-effective.
  • Review and improve existing machine designs for performance, cost, and ease of manufacture.

Project Execution
  • Own engineering execution for assigned projects from concept through release.
  • Deliver complete drawing and documentation packages that support procurement, manufacturing, assembly, testing, installation, and service.
  • Manage engineering schedules and priorities to meet project milestones.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and deliverables with engineering leadership and cross-functional teams.

Cross-Functional Support
  • Work closely with Sales, Project Management, Manufacturing, Assembly, Controls Engineering, Purchasing, Service, and Field Installation teams.
  • Support machine build, testing, startup, and troubleshooting activities.
  • Provide technical support during manufacturing, commissioning, and customer installation as needed.
  • Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
  • 7+ years of machine design experience.
  • Advanced 3D CAD proficiency.
  • Experience creating production drawings, assembly drawings, and bills of material.
  • Strong understanding of machine design principles including:

    1. Mechanical Power Transmission
    2. Servo-Driven Motion Systems
    3. Pneumatics (can you tell me what a 5/3 valve is?)
    4. Design For Manufacturing
    5. Mechanical Timing
    6. Machine Kinematics

  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving ability.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Familiarity with machining, fabrication, welding, and assembly processes.
  • Experience supporting machine commissioning and field installations.
  • Experience designing packaging machinery such as Cartoners, Case packers, Palletizers, and Robotic packaging systems preferred.
  • Experience with high-speed automated manufacturing equipment preferred.

What Success Looks Like
The successful candidate will:
  • Take ownership of complex machine design projects.
  • Produce accurate and complete release packages with minimal supervision.
  • Make practical engineering decisions under schedule pressure.
  • Effectively coordinate with multiple departments to keep projects moving forward.
  • Balance technical excellence with project deadlines and business objectives.
  • Consistently deliver solutions that can be purchased, built, tested, installed, and supported successfully.

#LI-Onsite
Why Choose IPG?
At IPG, you will find more than just a job-you will find a place where your success is our success. We pride ourselves on a culture built around strong relationships, where every team member plays a crucial role in our growth. Whether it is through cross-department collaboration, continuous training, or sustainability-driven initiatives, we create an environment where you can thrive.
Our commitment to sustainability influences everything we do, from designing eco-friendly products to minimizing waste in our production processes. We are dedicated to building a greener future while providing safe, supportive workplaces for our people.
With over 40 years of industry expertise and a proven track record of growth and innovation, IPG offers a stable, secure environment where you can flourish!
We offer competitive pay, extensive benefits that support you and your family, and exciting career development opportunities. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills or advance your career, we offer ongoing training and the support you need to succeed. Think big, dream bigger, and make an impact with IPG.
You belong here. Join us today!

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