Controls Engineer

Cullerton Group has an exciting opportunity for a Controls Engineer in Rock Falls, IL. This is a permanent, full-time position requiring on-site work.The role offers competitive compensation up to $100K, along with relocation assistance, performance-based bonus opportunities, and additional travel incentive programsWe are seeking a Controls Engineer to support the design, development, and commissioning of industrial control systems for weighing, batching, and material handling applications. This role will focus heavily on PLC and HMI programming, system startup, and troubleshooting, both in-house and at customer sites.This position is ideal for an early-career to intermediate-level engineer with hands-on experience in Rockwell / Allen Bradley PLCs and HMIs, who is comfortable working in both a shop and field environment. While familiarity with electrical systems and drawings is important, this role is not heavily focused on electrical design, as dedicated resources support that function.The Controls Engineer will work closely with project managers, production teams, and customers to ensure systems are delivered, tested, and commissioned successfully.Key ResponsibilitiesPLC & HMI DevelopmentDevelop, program, and test PLC and HMI applications for industrial systemsUtilize Rockwell / Allen Bradley platforms including Studio 5000, RSLogix, and FactoryTalkSystem Checkout & CommissioningPerform in-house testing and validation of completed control systemsSupport onsite startup, commissioning, and system integration at customer facilitiesProvide hands-on troubleshooting during installation and operationTroubleshooting & Technical SupportDiagnose and resolve system issues related to PLCs, HMIs, and electrical componentsProvide support to customers both onsite and remotely (phone/email)Documentation & Project SupportCreate and maintain detailed project documentation, including:Sequence of operationsI/O lists and equipment listsOperator manuals and instructionsAssist with approval packages and project deliverablesCross-Functional CollaborationWork with production technicians during system assembly and installationCoordinate with vendors and customers to gather technical informationSupport updates to production drawings when needed using E-Plan, DraftSight, or AutoCADContinuous Learning & ImprovementStay current with emerging control technologies and industry best practicesContribute ideas to improve system performance, efficiency, and reliabilityQualifications:Education & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field preferredEntry/Associate level: 2+ years of relevant experienceIntermediate level (preferred): 3–6+ years of experience in controls engineering or similar oleHands-on experience with PLC and HMI programming, including commissioning of control systemsTechnical SkillsStrong experience with Rockwell / Allen Bradley platforms:PLCs (CompactLogix, ControlLogix)HMIs (FactoryTalkME/SE)Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and technical drawingsFamiliarity with industrial controls and instrumentation such as:Load cells, pressure sensors, level sensors, limit switches, solenoidsExposure to CAD tools (E-Plan, DraftSight, AutoCAD) isa plusExperience with Ignition or structured text programming isa plusSoft Skills & Work StyleDetail-oriented with strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilitiesAble to work independently with minimal supervisionStrong organizational and time managementskillsEffective verbal and written communicationskillsFlexible and adaptable to changing prioritiesWork Environment & RequirementsOnsite role (no remote or hybrid options)Willingness to travel approximately 25% for commissioning andsupportAbility to work additional hours or weekends asneededMust be authorized to work in the U.S. (no visa sponsorship available)This position has been created to support growing project demands and evolving team structure. The role focuses on hands-on controls engineering work rather than project management responsibilities, offering a strong opportunity for technical growth and development within a collaborative engineering environment.