Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation PLC Programming / Machine Controls / Commissioning Engineer Greater Chicago, IL | Full-Time | On-Site Design, Program, and Commission Custom Automated Production Systems

Are you a hands‑on controls engineer who enjoys building and programming automated systems that operate in real‑world production environments?

We are working with a long‑established, global manufacturer of engineered‑to‑order food production equipment that is experiencing continued growth and expanding its automation capabilities. This organization designs and builds highly customized production systems used by customers worldwide.

This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of controls development, programming, and commissioning for complex automated production lines, while working closely with engineering, manufacturing, and customers.

• Competitive base salary: $84,000–$94,000 depending on experience
• Discretionary annual bonus
• BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with company contribution and additional company‑funded contributions
• Profit sharing program
• 10 annual paid holidays plus PTO and vacation
• Paid shutdown between Christmas and New Year
• Stable, growing company with long‑term market presence
• Opportunity to work on custom, engineered‑to‑order systems
• Exposure to global projects and international travel

The Controls Engineer will design, program, and support industrial automation systems for custom production equipment. This role is heavily focused on PLC programming, system integration, and real‑world commissioning, working both in‑house and at customer sites.

This is a hands‑on engineering role that combines programming, troubleshooting, and customer interaction to deliver fully functional automated systems.

• Develop and program PLC and HMI systems for automated production equipment
• Configure and integrate controls for process systems including feeders, pumps, and temperature‑controlled equipment
• Troubleshoot and debug control systems in the plant and during system startup
• Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and system validation
• Travel to customer sites to assist with installation, commissioning, and system optimization
• Work closely with internal teams and external vendors on control panel development and system integration
• Modify and adapt existing control programs to meet customer‑specific requirements
• Support continuous improvement efforts related to system performance and reliability
• Interface directly with customers during commissioning and troubleshooting activities

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field strongly preferred
• 2–5 years of experience in controls engineering or industrial automation
• Hands‑on experience with PLC programming (Allen‑Bradley / Rockwell preferred)
• Experience with HMIs, VFDs, and industrial control systems
• Ability to troubleshoot automation systems in real‑world production environments
• Strong understanding of machine controls, electrical systems, and automation processes
• Exposure to AutoCAD or electrical schematics is a plus
• Strong communication skills and ability to work directly with customers
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, project‑driven environment

• Approximately 10 trips per year, typically 2–3 days in duration
• Domestic and international travel across multiple global regions
• 100% on‑site role when not traveling
• Hands‑on work in both office and manufacturing environments

• Work on highly customized, engineered‑to‑order automation systems
• Be part of a tight‑knit engineering team supporting global customers
• Opportunity to see projects through from design to commissioning
• Exposure to international projects and diverse manufacturing environments
• Join a company with a long‑standing history of innovation and continued growth

We’d welcome the opportunity to connect and share more details.

Send your resume or reach out directly to start a conversation.