Controls Engineer

Company: Sterling Engineering Inc.
Location: Madison
Posted on: February 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description About the Company We design and build state-of-the-art custom automated machinery for a wide range of industries, including Medical/Life Sciences, Consumer Products, Automotive, and Industrial Manufacturing. Our organization operates as an employee-owned, worker cooperative, offering a collaborative environment where engineers have a real voice in decision-making and long-term success. Why You’ll Love This Role Employee-owned cooperative structure with shared ownership and influence Work on custom automation projects from concept through commissioning Exposure to advanced robotics, motion control, and machine vision systems Collaborative, engineering-driven culture with highly skilled peers Technically diverse projects across multiple industries Strong focus on quality, safety, and innovation What You’ll Do Design electrical hardware and software for custom automated machinery Develop and program PLC systems using Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Create and maintain ladder logic and control architectures Design and develop HMI applications Implement and tune multi-axis motion control systems Specify, integrate, and commission industrial robotic platforms Develop and integrate machine vision systems Perform system integration, startup, and hands-on equipment debugging Create and maintain technical documentation and electrical drawings Collaborate closely with mechanical, manufacturing, and customer teams Support projects through all phases, including design reviews and commissioning What We’re Looking For Required Skills & Knowledge: Working knowledge of NEC, NFPA 79, and UL 508A Electrical drafting experience using AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical PLC programming expertise with Rockwell Automation ControlLogix Strong project management and organizational skills Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving ability Strong interpersonal and communication skills Preferred / Nice to Have: Robot integration experience Knowledge of ANSI/RIA R15.06 robotic safety standards Experience & Education B.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience 5 years of hands-on automation controls or systems integration experience

Keywords: Sterling Engineering Inc., Buffalo Grove , Controls Engineer, Engineering , Madison, Illinois