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Controls Engineers

$160k

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Job Description

Job Description

Controls Engineer – Automation

Location: Elgin, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Up to $160,000 annually (based on experience)

Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to join an Automation Development team focused on designing and building custom automation and robotic equipment for high-volume manufacturing environments. This role is hands-on and end-to-end—you’ll own projects from concept and proof-of-principle through programming, debug, testing, and factory integration.

This position is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, custom machine build environments, enjoys learning new technologies, and takes pride in delivering robust, high-performing automation solutions.

What You’ll Do

  • Design and implement control systems for custom automation and robotic equipment

  • Support rapid prototyping efforts using in-house fabricated parts

  • Participate in machine risk assessments and ensure compliance with safety standards

  • Review electrical schematics and support controls hardware architecture decisions

  • Create application design documentation, flowcharts, and participate in software design reviews

  • Program and configure automation systems including:

    • PLCs

    • HMIs / SCADA

    • Servo systems

    • Robotics

    • Machine vision systems

  • Test and verify electrical wiring (safety circuits, I/O, communications, etc.)

  • Debug and validate software and hardware to meet performance and quality requirements

  • Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers and assembly teams to ensure proper machine setup and alignment

  • Execute acceptance testing and support equipment installation and integration at manufacturing facilities

  • Travel up to 25–30% to support factory installations and system launches

What You’ll Bring

  • 1+ years of experience in custom automation or machine build environments

  • PLC programming experience

    • Siemens (preferred)

    • Rockwell Automation (secondary)

  • HMI / SCADA experience

    • WinCC (preferred)

    • Ignition (secondary)

  • Experience with controls hardware including sensors, remote I/O, servos, VFDs, machine vision systems, barcode readers, and safety devices

  • Strong understanding of industrial networking protocols (Profinet, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, TCP/IP, etc.)

  • Robotics experience

    • FANUC (preferred)

    • KUKA (secondary)

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience

Why This Role

  • Work on custom, one-of-a-kind automation systems—no cookie-cutter projects

  • High ownership and visibility from concept through commissioning

  • Collaborative engineering environment with strong technical talent

  • Exposure to cutting-edge automation, robotics, and manufacturing technologies

Compensation & Benefits

  • Base salary up to $160,000, depending on experience

  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and holidays

  • Additional benefits and perks discussed during the interview process

  • on for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Vacancy posted 22 days ago
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