Controls Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer- Belvidere, IL

Position Overview
We are seeking a Controls Engineer to design, develop, and commission industrial control systems that automate machinery and production processes. The successful candidate will be responsible for control system architecture, PLC and HMI programming, electrical schematics, integration of robotics and motion systems, and onsite start-up and troubleshooting. This role supports cross-functional engineering teams to deliver safe, reliable, and efficient automation solutions that meet project requirements and customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop control system architectures, including PLC, HMI, safety circuits, and I/O layouts for new and retrofit projects.
• Create and update electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD or similar drafting tools.
• Program, configure, and commission PLCs and HMIs (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, or comparable platforms) and implement control logic using Ladder, Structured Text, or Function Block Diagram.
• Integrate and program industrial robots and motion-control systems with PLCs and machine vision where applicable.
• Develop and execute factory acceptance tests (FAT), site acceptance tests (SAT), and commissioning procedures; perform onsite startup and troubleshooting.
• Implement industrial communication networks and protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, and OPC UA.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure seamless integration and delivery of automation solutions.
• Prepare clear technical documentation, control narratives, bill of materials, and user manuals for clients and maintenance teams.
• Analyze system performance and lead continuous improvement efforts to increase reliability, reduce downtime, and optimize process control.
• Ensure designs and field work comply with applicable electrical and safety standards, and participate in risk assessments and machine safety design reviews.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Mechatronics, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• 3+ years of experience in industrial controls engineering, automation, or a related discipline; experience with manufacturing or process industries preferred.
• Hands-on experience programming and commissioning PLCs and HMIs (Rockwell/Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent) and familiarity with Ladder Logic and Structured Text.
• Experience integrating robotics and motion-control systems, including basic robot programming and interlocks.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD for creating electrical schematics and panel layouts, or demonstrated experience with similar CAD tools.
• Working knowledge of industrial networks and communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus, and OPC UA.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for electrical, control, and software issues during commissioning and operation.
• Familiarity with machine safety standards and practices (e.g., NFPA 70E, ISO 13849) and implementation of safety circuits and interlocks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and customers.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites for commissioning and support as required and a valid drivers license.
• Nice to have: demonstrable experience specifically calling out AutoCAD, Robotics, and PLC systems.

 

Benefits

• Medical insurance 
• Dental insurance - employer paid
• Vision Insurance - employer paid
• Short and Long-term disability - employer paid
• Basic Life and AD&D - employer paid
• Voluntary Life insurance 
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Pension plan
• Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Paid time off
• Wellness Reimbursement
• 8 paid holidays

- For this position, you must be currently authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship for a non-immigrant visa. This job was first posted by CyberCoders on 07/02/2026 and applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or closed. Everforth CyberCoders is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, status as a crime victim, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our hiring process includes AI screening for keywords and minimum qualifications, and a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. A human recruiter reviews all results. Click here for details on our virtual recruiter .  Everforth CyberCoders will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local law, including but not limited to the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the California Fair Chance Act. Everforth CyberCoders is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. Individuals needing special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment can contact a member of our Human Resources team at  View email address on ziprecruiter.com to make arrangements.