Junior Controls Engineer

MJ Recruiters, LLC; Bridgeview (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Low-cost medical care

Dental and vision coverage

1st shift schedule

Long-term career potential

Job summary

MJ Recruiters, LLC is seeking a Junior Controls Engineer for an on-site role in Bridgeview, IL. You will support maintenance of automated production lines, troubleshoot electrical issues, and program PLCs to keep conveyors, packaging systems, and robotics running smoothly.

The ideal candidate has a technical degree in controls or electrical systems and some PLC experience; strong problem-solving and reading schematics are essential.

Qualifications

• BS, AAS, or technical certifications in controls or related field.
• Prefer 1+ years PLC programming and electrical troubleshooting.
• Ability to read control schematics and electrical drawings.
• Familiar with VFDs, servos, HMI, and industrial networks.
• Local candidates only.
• Mechanical aptitude.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical and electronic systems across production equipment, automated conveyors, packaging lines, and robotic cells.
• Adjust and troubleshoot PLC programs to diagnose and resolve equipment issues.
• Read, interpret, and redline wiring schematics and control system drawings.
• Adjust parameters in machines, VFDs, and servos using built-in HMI interfaces.
• Install and inspect electrical conduit, raceway, and busbar systems per electrical codes.
• Pull wire, terminate connections, and repair electrical and pneumatic components using standard tools and procedures.
• Electrically tune and troubleshoot equipment to maintain proper operation within expected tolerances.
• Inspect operating components to identify issues before they result in downtime.
• Assemble, align, and install equipment as needed.
• Work professionally alongside internal teams and external contractors.

Skills

PLC programming

Electrical troubleshooting

Read schematics

HMI interfaces

VFDs

Servos

Industrial networks

Mechanical aptitude

Education

BS in controls/electrical

AAS in controls/electrical

Technical certification

Tools

Multimeter

Oscilloscope

Power tools

Job description

Junior Controls Engineer
Location: Bridgeview, IL (On-site)
Pay: $40.00–$45.00/hour
Schedule: 1st Shift | Local Candidates Only

Overview

A national manufacturer operating multiple production facilities across North America is adding a controls-focused engineer to its maintenance team at a highly automated Chicago-area facility. The operation runs robotic, automated conveyors, and complex packaging systems and this role sits at the center of keeping all of it running.

This is a hands-on technical position focused on PLC programming, electrical troubleshooting, and controls maintenance. The company will consider candidates with strong technical education and limited hands‑on experience, but proven PLC and electrical experience in a manufacturing environment will be prioritized.

What the Job Involves

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical and electronic systems across production equipment, automated conveyors, packaging lines, and robotic cells
• Adjust and troubleshoot PLC programs to diagnose and resolve equipment issues
• Read, interpret, and redline wiring schematics and control system drawings
• Adjust parameters in machines, VFDs, and servos using built-in HMI interfaces
• Install and inspect electrical conduit, raceway, and busbar systems per electrical codes
• Pull wire, terminate connections, and repair electrical and pneumatic components using standard tools and procedures
• Electrically tune and troubleshoot equipment to maintain proper operation within expected tolerances
• Inspect operating components to identify issues before they result in downtime
• Assemble, align, and install equipment as needed
• Work professionally alongside internal teams and external contractors

What They Need

• BS, AAS, or technical certifications in controls, electrical systems, or a related field is required
• Prefer 1+ years of hands‑on PLC programming and electrical troubleshooting experience
• Candidates with strong technical education and limited field experience will also be considered
• Ability to read and interpret control schematics and electrical drawings
• Familiarity with VFDs, servos, HMI interfaces, and industrial communications networks
• Mechanical aptitude with experience repairing pneumatic and electrical components
• Local candidates only

What's on the Table

• $40.00–$45.00/hour based on experience
• Low-cost medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Consistent 1st shift schedule with optional overtime
• Family-oriented culture with a genuine focus on work-life balance
• Stable, well‑established operation with long-term career potential