Controls Engineer, Senior
Job Description
- Design and develop electrical, pneumatic, and control systems for custom automated equipment
- Create electrical schematics, one-lines, and bills of material (AutoCAD / AutoCAD Electrical)
- Program and debug Allen-Bradley PLCs (Studio 5000) and HMIs (FactoryTalk View)
- Integrate and troubleshoot servo drives, VFDs, sensors, instrumentation, and motor controls
- Support machine testing, validation, and startup through simulation and hands-on debugging
- Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and project teams
- Ensure designs comply with NEC, NFPA, and applicable electrical standards
- Identify process improvements that reduce errors and improve efficiency across projects
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline (or equivalent experience)
- 3–5+ years of Controls / Electrical Engineering experience in automation or machinery
- Strong experience with:
- Allen-Bradley PLCs and servo systems
- HMI development and troubleshooting
- Industrial electrical systems up to 600 VAC
- Working knowledge of robotic systems (minimum 2 years preferred)
- Experience with AutoCAD (AutoCAD Electrical a plus)
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings
- Comfortable working in a 100% onsite, hands-on engineering environment
- Employee-owned organization (ESOP) — you benefit directly from company success
- Work on custom, engineered-to-order automation, not repetitive catalog machines
- Strong stability with long-term project visibility
- Engineering-driven culture with real ownership and accountability
- Salary up to $140,000, depending on experience
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with company contribution plus pension plan
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Tuition reimbursement and wellness programs
- Long-term career growth within an employee-owned company
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.
Meet Your Recruiter
Steve Stabley
Principal Recruiter
Steve Stabley is a Recruiter at Sterling Engineering with close to 30 years of technical recruiting experience, including more than 23 years with Sterling. Throughout his career, Steve has built deep expertise in the automation and manufacturing industries, helping clients identify and hire highly skilled engineering and technical talent.
Steve has successfully sourced and placed engineers and technicians with many of the leading automation companies throughout the greater Chicagoland area. His industry knowledge, long-standing relationships, and understanding of technical hiring needs allow him to connect qualified candidates with opportunities where they can make an immediate and lasting impact.