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Controls Engineer

Sterling Systems & Controls, Inc.
Sterling, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 5/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/31/2026
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Controls Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will work closely with Project Managers to design and develop PLC and HMI applications for weighing, batching, and material handling systems. You will also support electrical design, system testing, and customer startup activities.

This position offers a mix of in-house engineering work and hands-on field involvement, including system commissioning and troubleshooting.

Principal Responsibilities

Create well documented approval packages that include

  • Sequence of Operations
  • Front panel layouts
  • Equipment and I/O lists

PLC and HMI programming

Conduct in-house checkout of completed systems

Assist Production Technicians as needed with installation of components

Write detailed instruction manual for completed project

Communicate and request technical information with vendors and customers

Research new technology available in market

Assist customers with onsite and phone troubleshooting and system start up.

Assist with creating and updating production ready drawings when needed using E-Plan or DraftSight

Skills

Accuracy and high attention to detail

Electrical aptitude

Software/Logic aptitude

Time management skills

Excellent verbal and written grammar skills

Problem solving and troubleshooting ability

Knowledge, Education Or Experience

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field

Experience with Allen Bradley hardware

  • PLC, CompactLogix, ControlLogix, VFD, and Soft Starters

Experience with Rockwell Software products

  • Studio 5000, RSLogix, FactoryTalk Studio ME/SE

Experience In CAD Software, E-Plan, DraftSight Or AutoCAD Preferred

Experience with Inductive Automation Ignition software is a plus

Some exposure to structured text programming

Familiar with basic industrial controls and sensors including Loadcells, Weight Indicators, Pressure Sensors, Level Sensors, Limit Switches, Solenoids, etc.

Characteristics Required

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision

Travel enthusiastic

Dependable

Flexible to changing priorities and routines

Physical Requirements

Long periods of standing or sitting, with extended periods of work at a computer

Squatting, lifting and stretching

Salary.com Estimation for Controls Engineer in Sterling, IL
$87,954 to $107,073
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