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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Willowbrook, IL

Matrix Design, LLC

Controls Engineer

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$52.88 - $67.31/hr

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 ...

PremiStar

Sr. Controls Technician

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$59.50/hr

Position Summary The Senior Controls Technician will control and monitor commercial building HVAC controls system equipment, which includes programming, start-up, troubleshooting, commissioning, and ...

RWE

Sr Engineer II, Plant Controls

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

In this position, the Sr Engineer II, Plant Controls, will be key in the design and execution of control solutions for new sites. You will be gathering project-specific requirements to define the ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsControls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer Jobs in Willowbrook, IL

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Willowbrook, IL salary details

$71.2K

$113.5K

$152.3K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Willowbrook, IL is $113,466.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,900.00 and $126,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Willowbrook, IL look for?

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

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

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

Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you

Controls Engineer

Matrix Design, LLC

Bartlett, IL • On-site

$52.88 - $67.31/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Matrix Design is a great company because we have great people. At Matrix Design, we are committed to Developing Great People, Building a Great Company, and Delivering Great Results.

Our culture rests upon six Core Values that we strive to embody each and every day:

• We Can Do That! • We Do It Right! • We Do What We Say

• We Do It Better Next Time! • We Do It Together! • We Do It for a Greater Purpose

Solving automation integration problems across various industries is innovative, challenging, and often complex work. It demands creativity, collaboration, perseverance, and hard work from every member of the team. Therefore, we strive to put the Right Person in the Right Seat so that everyone wins!

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 robotic systems, PLC programming, HMI development, and motion control for a wide range of manufacturing applications. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in electrical engineering and automation, with a passion for solving complex challenges and delivering high-performance, reliable solutions.

ACCOUNTABILITIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. **BE AN IDEAL TEAM PLAYER

**• *Humble* – Collaborative. Elevates contributions of others. Lacks excessive ego.

• Hungry – Diligent. Self-motivated. Looks for more responsibility and opportunity.

• Smart – Emotionally intelligent. Understands team dynamics. Exercises common sense.

  1. **DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT OF CONTROL SYSTEMS

**• Design and develop control systems for automation projects, including PLC and HMI programming.

• Would include integration of robots and motion control systems into custom manufacturing solutions.

  1. **CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION & SUPPORT

**• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, robot programing and software teams to ensure system functionality and performance.

• Provide technical support and training to internal teams and clients.

  1. **SYSTEM VALIDATION, TROUBLESHOOTING & COMPLIANCE

**• Troubleshoot and debug electrical control systems during development, installation, and commissioning phases.

• Ensure all systems comply with applicable safety and quality standards.

  1. **DOCUMENTATION & PROJECT CONTRIBUTION

**• Develop and maintain detailed documentation, including redlining schematics, layout drawings, and user manuals.

• Contribute to project planning, timeline estimation, and cost analysis.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

  • Proficiency in PLC programming (e.g., Allen‑Bradley, Siemens)
  • Experience with industrial robotics (e.g., FANUC, ABB, Yaskawa)
  • Strong knowledge of motion control systems, VFD, and servo drives
  • Ability to read and contribute to electrical schematic creation
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Ethernet/IP, Modbus, ProfiNet)
  • Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities
  • Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in leading controls engineering projects with a focus on automation and robotics
  • Hands-on experience with PLCs, HMIs, and industrial robots
  • Knowledge of safety standards and risk assessments (e.g., ANSI, NFPA, ISO)
  • Experience in programming safety controllers or PLCs
  • Experience with troubleshooting industrial electrical control systems
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license or certifications (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens) are a plus

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

  • Up to 40%

The posted salary range represents an estimate for this role. The final offer will be determined based on several factors, including the candidate’s specific skills, professional experience, and relevant certifications.

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