Demo

Controls/Electrical Engineer

Sterling Engineering
Crystal Lake, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 6/12/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/10/2026
Title: Controls Engineer

Location: Crystal Lake, Illinois

Hire Type: Direct Hire

Shift : 1st shift

Compensation:$90-115k

Benefits: Medical,Dental, 401k

Design, Program, and Commission Advanced Industrial Automation Systems

We're seeking a Controls Engineer to join a growing engineering team responsible for developing and supporting custom industrial equipment used in demanding manufacturing environments. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex automation projects from concept through commissioning while collaborating with mechanical engineering, manufacturing, and customers. If you enjoy PLC programming, troubleshooting automation systems, commissioning equipment, and solving real-world engineering challenges, this is an excellent opportunity to make a direct impact on innovative machinery and process equipment.

What You'll Do

  • Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC, HMI, VFD, and industrial control systems for custom equipment and automated machinery.
  • Develop electrical schematics, control system architectures, and automation solutions that meet customer and project requirements.
  • Commission, test, and debug equipment both in-house and at customer facilities.
  • Collaborate with mechanical engineers, manufacturing teams, and customers throughout the project lifecycle.

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical field.
  • Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs and HMIs, preferably Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens platforms.
  • Strong understanding of industrial automation, motion control, VFDs, servo systems, sensors, and industrial networking.
  • Ability to diagnose complex electrical and controls issues while supporting machine startup and commissioning activities.

Preferred Experience

  • Experience working for an OEM, machine builder, systems integrator, or custom automation company.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, ProfiNet, or DeviceNet.
  • Experience with motion control, servo systems, robotics, or process automation.
  • Ability to read and develop electrical schematics using AutoCAD Electrical or similar design software.

Why This Opportunity?

  • Work on custom-designed equipment instead of repetitive plant maintenance projects.
  • Be involved in the complete machine lifecycle from design through commissioning.
  • Collaborate with a highly skilled engineering team on technically challenging projects.
  • Join a stable, growing organization with opportunities for long-term career advancement and technical development.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Salary.com Estimation for Controls/Electrical Engineer in Crystal Lake, IL
$91,850 to $111,812
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