Sterling Engineering · 2 hours ago
Controls Engineers
Elgin, IL
Full-time
Onsite
Entry Level
$160K/yr - $160K/yr
1+ years expSterling Engineering is seeking a highly motivated Controls Engineer to join their Automation Development team focused on designing and building custom automation and robotic equipment for high-volume manufacturing environments. The role involves owning projects from concept through programming, debugging, testing, and factory integration, and is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys learning new technologies.
ConsultingInformation Technology
Responsibilities
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
Qualification
Required
1+ years of experience in custom automation or machine build environments
PLC programming experience
HMI / SCADA experience
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
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience
Preferred
Siemens PLC programming experience
Rockwell Automation PLC programming experience
WinCC HMI / SCADA experience
Ignition HMI / SCADA experience
FANUC robotics experience
KUKA robotics experience
Benefits
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and holidays
Additional benefits and perks discussed during the interview process
Company
Sterling Engineering
Sterling Engineering is an engineering company providing technical recruitment and engineering project services.
501-1000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Sterling Engineering has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (3)
2024 (6)
2023 (3)
2022 (1)
2020 (5)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Dolores Connolly
CEO
Recent News
Hartford Business Journal
2025-01-28
Hartford Business Journal
2024-12-20
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