Senior Controls Engineer

Cognify Global; Elk Grove Village (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation company is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to design and implement automation control systems for advanced machinery. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and at least 5 years of experience in developing PLC and HMI solutions. This role involves collaboration with mechanical engineering, hands-on troubleshooting, and project coordination. Competitive salary and full-time employment in Elk Grove Village, Illinois.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience developing PLC and HMI solutions.
• Strong knowledge of Rockwell Automation platforms.
• Experience with motion control and servo systems.

Responsibilities

• Design and document electrical control systems.
• Develop, test, and optimize PLC and HMI applications.
• Coordinate closely with mechanical engineering.

Skills

PLC and HMI development

Electrical control system design

Project coordination

Motion control systems

Electrical schematics

Rockwell Automation platforms

AutoCAD proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related discipline

Tools

AutoCAD

SolidWorks Electrical

Job description

This range is provided by Cognify Global. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$100,000.00/yr - $130,000.00/yr

Head of West Coast - Automation & Control

Senior Controls Engineer – Electrical & Automation

Overview

We’re looking for an experienced Senior Controls Engineer to take ownership of the design, programming, and deployment of automation control systems for advanced machinery and equipment. This role involves creating efficient electrical control architectures, developing PLC and HMI software, and ensuring reliable motion control performance. The right individual will combine strong technical expertise with a practical, hands‑on approach to automation challenges.

Primary Duties

• Design and document electrical control systems and panel layouts aligned with industry and safety standards.
• Specify and implement field devices, sensors, actuators, and related automation hardware components.
• Develop, test, and optimize PLC and HMI applications for automated machines and integrated systems.
• Create wiring diagrams, bills of materials, and technical documentation for production and installation.
• Coordinate closely with mechanical engineering to ensure seamless integration of electrical and mechanical subsystems.
• Provide on‑site and remote troubleshooting, startup assistance, and commissioning support as needed (travel approximately 25–30%).
• Support and mentor junior engineers and technicians on controls design and programming best practices.
• Participate in continuous improvement of design standards, workflows, and engineering documentation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience developing PLC and HMI solutions for automated systems.
• Strong knowledge of Rockwell Automation platforms (Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View); familiarity with Ignition or FT Optix is advantageous.
• Skilled in creating and interpreting electrical schematics; AutoCAD proficiency required, SolidWorks Electrical familiarity preferred.
• Experience with motion control and servo systems, including configuration and tuning.
• Understanding of industrial wiring, controls hardware, and system integration principles.
• Practical knowledge of sensors, pneumatics, and vision systems used in automation environments.
• Excellent diagnostic, communication, and project coordination skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and work both independently and collaboratively.

Desired Experience

• Exposure to electrical schematic software such as AutoCAD LT or SolidWorks Electrical.
• Prior experience in machinery design, integration, or industrial automation system development.

Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Industries

• Automation Machinery Manufacturing