Senior Controls Engineer
Electrical & Controls Project Engineer
📍 Location: Illinois | Type: Full-time, Regular
Are you a hands-on engineer with a passion for automation and material handling systems? We're looking for an experienced Electrical & Controls Project Engineer to lead the design, management, and execution of plant automation projects-from concept through commissioning.
This role emphasizes electrical design and controls, offering the opportunity to work on innovative systems in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
What You'll Do
- Design and manage material handling automation projects from estimation to installation.
- Estimate materials and labor for new automation solutions.
- Design control panels and specify components in compliance with UL 508A, NEC, and NFPA standards.
- Create customer approval packages and production-ready drawings using E-Plan and DraftSight.
- Program PLCs and HMIs (primarily Allen-Bradley and FactoryTalk View ME/SE).
- Conduct in-house system testing and support customer acceptance tests.
- Write detailed instruction manuals and provide remote/on-site troubleshooting support.
- Research and integrate new technologies into system designs.
- Collaborate with sales, engineering, and purchasing teams to ensure project success.
- Lead and mentor junior engineers and coordinate with mechanical design staff.
- Manage project costs, schedules, and customer communications.
What You Bring
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
- Experience with industrial controls, material handling systems, and plant automation.
- Proficiency in E-Plan and DraftSight (or AutoCAD).
- Strong knowledge of UL 508A, NEC, and NFPA standards.
- Experience with Allen-Bradley hardware and Rockwell Software (FactoryTalk, Studio 5000, CCW).
- Excellent problem-solving, time management, and communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to changing priorities.
- Willingness to travel for project work and customer support.
Preferred Qualifications
- UL MTR Certification (or willingness to obtain).
- Experience in OEM machine building or systems integration.
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and work at a computer.
- Occasional squatting, lifting, stretching, and travel (by car or air).
Why Join Us?
You'll be part of a collaborative team that values innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement. If you're ready to take ownership of exciting automation projects and grow your career in a supportive environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now and help shape the future of industrial automation.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.