Controls Engineer
arena family of companiesMundelein (IL)
About the role
Job DescriptionControls Engineer
Northwest Indiana (Greater Chicago area) | Direct Hire | On-site
Picture this: a line goes down, an operator waves you over, and within minutes you've talked it through, traced the issue, and gotten things running again. For the right engineer, that is the best part of the day. This role was built for that person.
Our client is a well-established global manufacturer with a high-volume plant in Northwest Indiana, an easy commute from the south Chicago suburbs. They need a Controls Engineer who wants to be the automation expert for the entire facility and who enjoys being on the floor as much as behind a laptop.
What you'll own
Hands-on troubleshooting across PLCs, HMIs, drives, sensors, robotics, and plant networks
Finding and leading upgrades that make equipment faster, safer, and more reliable
A real seat at the table on capital projects, from planning through startup
Coaching electricians and instrument techs so the whole team keeps getting stronger
Keeping drawings, programs, and documentation current and organized
What you bring
4+ years of controls and automation experience in a manufacturing plant
Strong PLC programming and troubleshooting skills, with Allen-Bradley / Rockwell experience (ControlLogix, Studio 5000, FactoryTalk)
Beckhoff experience is a great bonus
A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field
A clear, straightforward communicator who can explain how you think through a problem
Why this one is worth a look
One plant and one set of systems that are yours to shape, with no bouncing between customer sites
An engineering manager who values honesty, curiosity, and people who think out loud
A stable, global company with room to grow
A competitive compensation package and full benefits
Before you apply
Applying takes about a minute. These four things decide how fast it moves after that.
Your profile is current
It's what we read first. Occupations, seniority and locations matter more than a long history.
Two examples you can talk through
Not a portfolio — just two pieces of work where you can explain the decisions and what you'd change.
A number in mind
What you're on now and what would make you move. We negotiate better when we know both.
Your notice period
Employers plan around it, and it's the question that stalls offers most often.
Once you apply, someone reads it and calls you before anything reaches the employer — usually within two working days.
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