Controls Engineers

Company: Sterling Engineering Inc.
Location: Elgin
Posted on: February 15, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description 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.

Keywords: Sterling Engineering Inc., Elmhurst , Controls Engineers, Engineering , Elgin, Illinois