Controls Engineer

This is an onsite position located in Arlington Heights, IL. You must be able to work in the office on a regular basis.

Power Innovation. Drive Automation. Build What’s Next.

Are you passionate about turning complex automation challenges into high-performing, reliable systems? We’re looking for a skilled Controls Engineer who thrives in hands-on environments and enjoys seeing projects come to life—from concept through commissioning). If you enjoy solving problems, programming advanced automation systems, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to improve manufacturing performance, this role offers the opportunity to make a measurable impact.

If you’re ready to take ownership of complex automation projects and play a key role in delivering high-performance manufacturing systems, we encourage you to apply.

Position Summary

This position is based out of Arlington Heights, Illinois, and requires regular, onsite presence. Candidates must be able to commute to the Arlington Heights office on a consistent basis.

The Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, programming, and maintaining control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, and equipment. This role partners closely with project managers, electrical engineers, and automation teams to ensure seamless system integration, safe and compliant designs, and continuous operational improvement. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, technically strong in PLC/HMI programming, and capable of managing multiple projects through various stages of development.

Key Responsibilities

Automation & Programming

• Program and troubleshoot PLCs and HMIs
• Develop and integrate automation equipment and motion control systems
• Work with Allen Bradley software (Studio5000, RSLogix5000, RSLogix500)
• Utilize Kinetix, Festo, and IAI motion control products

Design & Engineering

• Design electrical schematics and wiring drawings
• Create Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Design and program safety circuits (preferred)
• Ensure designs adhere to UL specifications
• Analyze CAD drawings, written specifications, sketches, and verbal instructions to determine layout and sequence of operations

Troubleshooting & Commissioning

• Troubleshoot electrical components, wiring, and integrated systems
• Debug control systems and perform final performance testing
• Support field service, start-up, and commissioning activities (5–15% travel required)
• Work with voltage systems including 24 VDC, 120/240/480 VAC

Collaboration & Project Management

• Manage multiple projects across various build phases
• Collaborate with build and electrical teams to ensure smooth execution
• Train maintenance personnel on machine operation and system functionality
• Complete projects from start to finish with minimal supervision

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field preferred
• 5+ years of automation experience
• Strong PLC programming experience
• Experience programming automation equipment
• Proficiency in HMI programming and troubleshooting
• Hands-on troubleshooting experience with electrical systems
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills
• Machine vision experience (Cognex, Keyence, iRVision)
• Fanuc robotics experience
• Safety circuit design and programming
• Electrical schematic design experience

Physical Demands. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance and talk or hear.  The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.