Senior Controls Engineer: OEM Automation & Commissioning Lead

Sterling Engineering Inc.; Buffalo Grove (IL); On-site; USD 66,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Sterling Engineering Inc. in Buffalo Grove, IL is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to design, program, commission, and support complex automated manufacturing systems from concept to installation.

You will lead PLC development using Allen-Bradley controls, design electrical hardware, and collaborate with mechanical and software teams to ensure high-quality, on-time project delivery. Occasional travel to customer sites is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent experience.
• OEM/custom automation experience preferred.
• Experience writing PLC programs from scratch.
• Strong understanding of electrical controls and industrial automation.
• Experience with Allen-Bradley/Rockwell PLCs (ControlLogix/CompactLogix).
• Familiarity with machine vision systems and industrial networking.
• Knowledge of NFPA 79 and UL 508A.
• AutoCAD Electrical experience a plus.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work with software, logic, and complex automated systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead controls projects from concept to installation and commissioning.
• Develop and program PLC control systems for custom equipment.
• Design industrial control systems and electrical hardware.
• Develop and modify machine control software.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, software, and project teams.
• Support startup, debugging, and troubleshooting at customer sites.
• Commission equipment and provide customer training.
• Create controls documentation and end-user instructions.
• Ensure projects meet schedule and budget.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial Ethernet networks.
• Support robotics and machine vision applications.
• Occasional travel to customer sites for installation and training.

Skills

PLC programming

Automation systems

Electrical troubleshooting

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Machine vision

Industrial networks

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD Electrical

Job description

Sterling Engineering Inc. in Buffalo Grove, IL is seeking a hands-on Controls Engineer to design, program, commission, and support complex automated manufacturing systems from concept to installation.

You will lead PLC development using Allen-Bradley controls, design electrical hardware, and collaborate with mechanical and software teams to ensure high-quality, on-time project delivery. Occasional travel to customer sites is required.