Controls Engineer 1

Cullerton Group has a new opportunity for a Controls Engineer 1 in Peoria, IL. The work will be 100% onsite at the Peoria Proving Ground, 5 days per week on 1st shift. This is an 18-month position that can lead to permanent employment with our client. Compensation is up to $43/hr full benefits (vision, dental, health insurance, 401k, and holiday pay).

Job Summary

The Controls Engineer 1 will support the validation and testing of multiple machine platforms, with a primary focus on planning and executing data collection runs used to document machine performance and verify intended behavior. This is a highly hands-on role involving daily interaction with machines, controls systems, and field testing. The engineer will help prepare machines for testing, including software flashing and data transfer, troubleshoot system issues, collect and upload test data, and coordinate with engineering teams to ensure testing is completed successfully.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and support machine validation and data collection runs.
• Prepare machines for testing, including software flashing, data transfer, and machine readiness checks.
• Troubleshoot hardware, controls, Ethernet, CAN, and system-related issues.
• Test, evaluate, modify, and calibrate products, instruments, and control systems.
• Collect machine performance data, verify systems are functioning correctly, and upload collected data to servers for analysis.
• Coordinate schedules and testing activities with engineers, technicians, and other team members.
• Follow all applicable safety procedures and requirements while performing machine and field testing.

Required Qualifications

• 0–2 years of relevant engineering experience; internship experience is accepted.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
• Knowledge of Ethernet and CAN communication and ability to troubleshoot systems.
• Strong computer skills; Linux experience is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving, organization, and detailed planning skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to coordinate schedules and provide project updates.
• Comfortable working onsite and outdoors around machines in varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with machine controls, vehicle systems, validation/testing, or data acquisition.
• Familiarity with Linux, CAN networks, Ethernet, software flashing, and data transfer.
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting electrical, controls, or machine systems.
• Previous internship or academic project experience involving controls, testing, automotive, off-highway equipment, robotics, or similar systems.

Why This Role?

This position offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer to gain hands-on experience with large machines, controls systems, validation testing, and emerging technology. The role combines engineering work with daily machine exposure and outdoor field testing, making it especially well suited for someone who enjoys planning and executing physical validation tests rather than working exclusively at a desk. The engineer will also join a supportive team of approximately 20 engineers with dedicated specialty leads and structured onboarding.