Controls Engineer

Power Innovation. Drive Automation. Build What's Next

Are you passionate about turning complex automation challenges into high-performing, reliable systems? We’re looking for a skilled Controls Engineer who thrives in hands‑on environments and enjoys seeing projects come to life—from concept through commissioning. If you enjoy solving problems, programming advanced automation systems, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to improve manufacturing performance, this role offers the opportunity to make a measurable impact.

This is a senior‑level on‑site position based in Arlington Heights, Illinois that requires 5‑15% travel.

If you're ready to take ownership of complex automation projects and play a key role in delivering high‑performance manufacturing systems, we encourage you to apply.

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, programming, and maintaining control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, and equipment. This role partners closely with project managers, electrical engineers, and automation teams to ensure seamless system integration, safe and compliant designs, and continuous operational improvement. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, technically strong in PLC/HMI programming, and capable of managing multiple projects through various stages of development.

• Program and troubleshoot PLCs and HMIs, particularly for packaging equipment.
• Develop and integrate automation equipment and motion control systems.
• Work with Allen Bradley software (Studio 5000, RSLogix 5000, RSLogix 500).
• Utilize Kinetix, Festo, and IAI motion control products.

• Design electrical schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Create Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Design and program safety circuits.
• Ensure designs adhere to UL specifications.
• Analyze CAD drawings, written specifications, sketches, and verbal instructions to determine layout and sequence of operations.

• Troubleshoot electrical components, wiring, and integrated systems.
• Debug control systems and perform final performance testing.
• Support field service, start‑up, and commissioning activities (5‑15% travel).
• Work with voltage systems including 24 VDC, 120/240 V.
• Manage multiple projects across various build phases.
• Collaborate with build and electrical teams to ensure smooth execution.
• Train maintenance personnel on machine operation and system functionality.
• Complete projects from start to finish with minimal supervision.

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or a combination of technical education and relevant hands‑on experience.
• 5+ years of automation experience.
• Strong PLC programming experience.
• Experience programming automation equipment.
• Proficiency in HMI programming and troubleshooting.
• Hands‑on troubleshooting experience with electrical systems.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail‑oriented with strong problem‑solving skills.
• Machine vision experience (Cognex, Keyence, IR Vision) and Fanuc robotics experience.
• Safety circuit design and programming experience.
• Electrical schematic design experience.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel;

reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and the ability to adapt in challenging environments.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.