Junior Controls Engineer

Top Echelon Software LLC; Bridgeview (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Low-cost medical, dental, and vision

Consistent 1st shift schedule

Overtime potential

Family-oriented culture

Job summary

Top Echelon Software LLC is seeking a Junior Controls Engineer to join our Chicago-area facility in Bridgeview, IL. This on-site role focuses on PLC programming, electrical troubleshooting, and controls maintenance to keep automated packaging and conveyors running smoothly.

The ideal candidate has a technical background (BS/AAS or certs) and a willingness to grow hands-on experience. Local candidates only; 1st shift with overtime potential and a strong team culture.

Qualifications

• BS, AAS, or technical certifications in controls, electrical systems or related field.
• 1+ years PLC programming and electrical troubleshooting preferred.
• Read and interpret control schematics and electrical drawings.
• Experience with VFDs, servos, and HMI interfaces is a plus.
• Local candidates only.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot, repair, and maintain electrical and electronic systems across production equipment.
• Adjust and troubleshoot PLC programs to resolve equipment issues.
• Read, interpret, and redline wiring schematics and control drawings.
• Adjust parameters in machines, VFDs, and servos via HMIs.
• Install and inspect conduit, raceway, and busbar systems per code.
• Terminate connections and repair electrical and pneumatic components.
• Tune and troubleshoot equipment to stay within tolerances.
• Inspect components to prevent downtime.
• Work with internal teams and external contractors.

Skills

PLC programming

Electrical troubleshooting

Schematic reading

HMI interfaces

VFDs and servos

Industrial networks

Mechanical aptitude

Education

BS, AAS, or technical certifications in controls or electrical

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