Controls Engineer

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionControls 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 , and long-term 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!