Controls Engineers

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.