Controls Engineer

Downers Grove, IL 60515

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Controls Engineering Job Number: 48656474 Compensation: $100000-115000 / year

Job Description

Controls Engineer – Industrial Automation
? Downers Grove, IL
? Full-Time | Hybrid
? Salary: Up to $115,000 + Bonus Opportunities

Join a Collaborative and Motivated Engineering Team!
We’re looking for a Controls Engineer to join a close-knit, high-performing group based in Downers Grove, IL. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys solving technical challenges, taking ownership of projects, and working in a supportive environment where knowledge-sharing is encouraged and ideas are valued.

You’ll enjoy big-company tools and projects with a small-company atmosphere—including flexible hours, casual dress, and direct access to decision-makers. Work ranges from retrofits and upgrades to greenfield automation projects, with full involvement from project kickoff through commissioning.

What You’ll Do
  • Take ownership of projects from initial concept through field start-up.
  • Design and specify components and architecture for control systems.
  • Oversee the drafting of electrical schematics and panel layouts.
  • Supervise panel fabrication at an on-site facility.
  • Develop PLC and HMI programming.
  • Program VFD and servo motion systems.
  • Conduct system simulation, testing, and debugging.
  • Commission systems in the field and provide troubleshooting support.
  • Travel up to 25% for system start-up and support.
What You’ll Need
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
  • 4–10 years of experience with:
    • PLC and HMI programming
    • Electrical schematic design
    • VFD setup and configuration
    • I/O systems and PID loop tuning
  • Strong problem-solving and mechanical aptitude.
  • Comfortable with hands-on work and field troubleshooting.
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel as needed.
Tools & Technologies You’ll Use
  • Software: Studio 5000, FactoryTalk SE & ME, TIA Portal, WinCC, Ignition, Wonderware
  • Hardware: ControlLogix, PowerFlex VFDs, Kinetix Servo Systems, Siemens drives (G120/S120), and distributed I/O
Nice-to-Have Skills
  • High-speed motion control programming
  • PLC-based safety systems
  • Advanced VFD coordination and registration
  • Complex PID control setup (cascading/nested)
  • P&ID development experience
  • UL 508A and SCCR knowledge
  • Mentoring or leadership experience
Compensation & Benefits
  • Base salary up to $115,000, plus annual performance and travel bonuses
  • Hybrid work schedule
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Generous PTO: 10 vacation days, 5 sick days, 10 paid holidays
  • Company-paid life, AD&D, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
  • Work alongside a smart, collaborative engineering team with room to grow
If you're ready to work on exciting automation projects in a flexible, engineer-friendly environment, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply now and take the next step in your engineering career!

Meet Your Recruiter

Ric Delgado
Lead Technical Recruiter

Ric Delgado is a seasoned Principal Recruiter primarily focusing on the Automation Division at Sterling. With a distinguished tenure of over five years at Sterling and an impressive career spanning more than a decade in the recruiting field, Ric is a respected and accomplished professional in talent acquisition.

As a Principal Recruiter, Ric draws upon his extensive experience to excel in the Automation Division. His in-depth understanding of this dynamic industry enables him to connect talented individuals with exciting and fulfilling job opportunities expertly. Ric plays a pivotal role in helping candidates find new positions, advance in their careers, and achieve their professional goals.

Ric's passion for positively impacting individuals' lives through career advancement is the driving force behind his dedication to recruitment. He takes immense pride in his role as a professional growth and development facilitator, understanding the pivotal role a career change can play in a person's life journey.

He firmly believes in continuously updating one's skills and knowledge to stay competitive in any field. His commitment to personal and professional development not only enhances his own expertise but also positions him as a valuable resource for candidates seeking guidance in their career journeys.

As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

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About Downers Grove, IL

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding Downers Grove, Illinois. Nestled in the heart of the Prairie State, this region offers a perfect blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. Home to lush parks like Lyman Woods and the captivating Morton Arboretum, as well as renowned art galleries like the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, there is no shortage of inspiration here. Indulge in local delicacies like deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, then catch a show at the historic Tivoli Theatre. With proximity to professional sports teams like the Chicago Bulls and White Sox, as well as easy access to downtown Chicago's bustling cultural scene, endless opportunities for growth and success await you in the Downers Grove area. Explore our listings today and discover your next career adventure!