Controls/Mechanical Engineer - Schaumburg

Join the IPG Team!

Are you ready to elevate your career? At IPG, we are more than just a global leader in packaging and protective solutions-we are a community that values safety, people, passion, integrity, performance, and teamwork. From tapes and films to packaging and protective products, as well as engineered coated materials and advanced packaging machinery, we develop innovative solutions that protect the world. Now, we are expanding our global team and looking for talented individuals like you!

Position Description

Title: Controls/Mechanical Engineer

Department: Engineering

Immediate Supervisor: Engineering Manager

Status: Exempt Salaried

Position Summary: This role is a unique hybrid Controls Engineer with a strong Mechanical Engineering background. The individual will spend the majority of their time developing, integrating, commissioning, and troubleshooting industrial control systems, while also contributing as a hands-on mechanical design engineer for custom automation and packaging machinery.

The position requires a unique blend of PLC/robot programming expertise and machine design capability, supporting the development of custom packaging equipment, robotic systems, and end of arm tooling from concept through commissioning.

Principle Accountabilities

• Design, program, and commission industrial control systems using PLCs, HMIs, and motion control platforms.

• Develop and maintain PLC programs for packaging and automation machinery.

• Integrate equipment with higher level systems such as WMS, MES, and factory networks.

• Program and troubleshoot industrial robots, including Fanuc and/or Yaskawa, for material handling and packaging applications.

• Support system startup, commissioning, and onsite installation activities.

• Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and automation issues during development, testing, and field service.

• Prepare and maintain control system documentation, including:

• I/O lists

• Electrical schematics

• BOMs

• Functional descriptions

• Work closely with mechanical engineers, manufacturing, service, and project management to ensure system performance, safety, and reliability.

• Support continuous improvement of control standards, templates, and programming best practices.

• Travels up to 25%

Secondary Accountabilities

• Design and develop custom packaging and automation machinery.
• Generate 3D models, detailed drawings, and assemblies using SolidWorks
• Apply sound mechanical engineering principles to machine layout, mechanisms, tolerancing, and material selection.
• Collaborate with other engineers and personnel to ensure effective design decisions.
• Support prototyping, assembly, and testing of new equipment.
• Troubleshoot mechanical issues during build, test, and commissioning.
• Contribute to design-for-manufacturability and cost reduction efforts.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related engineering field, or relevant Engineering discipline
• 2-4 years of related experience
• Strong experience with PLC and HMI platforms (preferably Allen Bradley), robot control systems (preferably Fanuc), and 3D design software.
• Demonstrated ability to design mechanical and electrical systems for automated machinery.
• Demonstrated ability to diagnose/troubleshoot problems with automated machinery.
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem solving, and documentation skills.
• Aptitude and willingness to be a self-starter.
• Must be able to travel up to 25%
• Must have a valid driver's license or ability to obtain one.

Why Choose IPG?

At IPG, you will find more than just a job-you will find a place where your success is our success. We pride ourselves on a culture built around strong relationships, where every team member plays a crucial role in our growth. Whether it is through cross-department collaboration, continuous training, or sustainability-driven initiatives, we create an environment where you can thrive.

Our commitment to sustainability influences everything we do, from designing eco-friendly products to minimizing waste in our production processes. We are dedicated to building a greener future while providing safe, supportive workplaces for our people.

With over 40 years of industry expertise and a proven track record of growth and innovation, IPG offers a stable, secure environment where you can flourish!

We offer competitive pay, extensive benefits that support you and your family, and exciting career development opportunities. Whether you are looking to enhance your skills or advance your career, we offer ongoing training and the support you need to succeed. Think big, dream bigger, and make an impact with IPG.

You belong here. Join us today!