Sterling Engineering Inc. Controls Engineers in Elgin, IL | 1267326404

Verified Pay check_circle	Up to $160,000 per year
Hours	Full-time
Location	Elgin, Illinois

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.

Controls Engineers

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