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Automation Engineer Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL

Ferrara

Automation Expert Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $160K/yr

As the Automation Expert Engineer, you'll design, implement, and optimize the advanced control ... Skilled in vendor management, contract negotiation, and equipment specification. * Excellent ...

AbbVie

Director, Automation

North Chicago, IL · On-site

$160K/yr

Lead a team of engineering experts in supporting Site Automation Managers and Operations Managers ... Support Global Sourcing in the area of global and regional contracts for Automation Process Control ...

AbbVie

Director, Automation

North Chicago, IL · On-site

Lead a team of engineering experts in supporting Site Automation Managers and Operations Managers ... Support Global Sourcing in the area of global and regional contracts for Automation Process Control ...

AbbVie

Director, Automation

North Chicago, IL · On-site

Lead a team of engineering experts in supporting Site Automation Managers and Operations Managers ... Support Global Sourcing in the area of global and regional contracts for Automation Process Control ...

AbbVie

Director, Automation

North Chicago, IL · On-site

Lead a team of engineering experts in supporting Site Automation Managers and Operations Managers ... Support Global Sourcing in the area of global and regional contracts for Automation Process Control ...

Ferrero SpA

Automation Expert Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114.45 - $160.23/hr

As the Automation Expert Engineer, you'll design, implement, and optimize the advanced control ... Skilled in vendor management, contract negotiation, and equipment specification. * Excellent ...

Computer Futures

System Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... contract roles across Asia, Europe and the US. They are seeking a System Automation Engineer to ... manage Windows Server administration, automate system provisioning, and lead continuous integration ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomation Engineer Contract JobsAutomation Engineer Contract Jobs in Chicago, IL

Automation Engineer Contract information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$110.4K

$167.9K

How much do automation engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer contract in Chicago, IL is $110,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,100.00 and $127,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation engineer contract?

An Automation Engineer Contract job is a temporary or project-based role where professionals design, develop, and implement automated systems to improve efficiency in manufacturing, software development, or other industries. Contract automation engineers work for a set duration, often focusing on specific automation tasks such as scripting, robotics, or process optimization. They may collaborate with teams to troubleshoot issues, enhance existing automation, and ensure seamless integration with other systems. This type of role allows flexibility in employment while providing expertise in automation solutions.

What does an automation engineer contract do?

As a contract Automation Engineer, your daily tasks often include designing, programming, and testing automation systems, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with onsite engineers or project managers. You may also be responsible for documentation, system integration, and ensuring that automated solutions meet specific client requirements. Since contract roles are often project-based, adaptability and the ability to quickly onboard with new teams are important. Work environments may vary from manufacturing floors to remote project sites, offering dynamic experiences and opportunities to work on diverse automation challenges.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an automation engineer contract?

To excel as an Automation Engineer Contract, you need a solid background in programming, control systems, and process automation, typically supported by an engineering degree and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and certifications such as ISA/IEC 62443 are often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate within cross-functional teams and adapt to project changes. These competencies are vital to deliver robust automation solutions on time and maintain high standards in dynamic contract-based environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Automation Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer Contract jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Automation Engineer Contract jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Automation Engineer Contract job openings:

Automation Engineer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Contract job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,356 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Automation Expert Engineer

Ferrara

Chicago, IL • On-site

$114K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Ferrara Candy rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Job description

Work Location: Chicago
Due to the highly interactive and team-based nature of this role, in-person attendance for most of the workweek (i.e., 3 days or more), is essential for effective communication including in-person meetings, strong supervision, and real-time problem-solving and participation in cross-functional initiatives. This role requires on-site work in a manufacturing environment.
Join us at a defining moment.
We're building the largest food manufacturing facility in our network, a bold investment that will set new standards for scale, technology, and efficiency. This is a rare opportunity to play a critical role to build a site from the ground up, shaping the people strategy, culture, and operations that will power our future.
We're looking for a builder. Someone who thrives in fast-moving, ambiguous environments and brings an entrepreneurial mindset. This role requires agility, curiosity, and a hands-on approach. You'll be solving problems in real time, building processes from scratch, and creating a high-performing, engaged workforce from day one. If you're driven by impact, ownership, and results, this is your chance to leave a lasting mark.
Want to make an impact?
Step into a career-defining role where your expertise will shape the automation backbone of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for a global leader in sugar confections. As the Automation Expert Engineer, you'll design, implement, and optimize the advanced control systems that power efficiency, reliability, and scalability across our new flagship site. By leading automation strategy from concept through commissioning, you'll help set the standard for innovation and operational excellence in the fast-moving consumer goods industry.
This role with report to the Sr. Director, Process Engineering and will be based at our Corporate Headquarters in downtown Chicago, IL. Expected travel will be up to 50%.
Ways you will make a difference
  • Design the future of automation: Lead specification, design, and implementation of plant-wide automation systems, including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA, robotics, and advanced controls.
  • Enable seamless integration: Ensure packaging, process, and utility systems are fully connected, reliable, and optimized for high-speed production.
  • Champion digital transformation: Introduce smart manufacturing, data analytics, and Industry 4.0 technologies to maximize efficiency and visibility.
  • Deliver results: Manage project budgets, schedules, and vendor relationships to ensure automation systems are delivered on time, on budget, and to spec.
  • Lead commissioning: Oversee testing, startup, and operator training to ensure flawless handover of systems into production.
  • Drive reliability: Develop standards, documentation, and preventive maintenance strategies to ensure long-term system uptime and compliance.
  • Partner for success: Collaborate across Engineering, IT, Operations, and Quality to align automation solutions with business and regulatory needs.
  • Foster innovation: Continuously evaluate new technologies to keep the facility ahead of the curve in performance and sustainability.

Skills that will make you successful
  • Strong technical expertise in automation, controls, robotics, and industrial IT systems.
  • Proven leadership in managing large-scale automation projects within manufacturing environments.
  • Skilled in vendor management, contract negotiation, and equipment specification.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on root cause and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly across functions and levels.
  • Proficiency with PLC programming, HMI/SCADA platforms, and industrial networking.
  • Passion for innovation, operational excellence, and sustainable manufacturing.

Experiences that will support your success
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Controls, Automation, or related Engineering discipline (Master's preferred).
  • 10+ years of automation engineering experience in manufacturing, ideally FMCG, food & beverage, or CPG industries.
  • Track record of leading automation design, integration, and commissioning for large-scale capital projects.
  • Hands-on experience with robotics, motion control, and smart manufacturing technologies.
  • Experience developing and managing automation standards and best practices.
  • Familiarity with cybersecurity, data integrity, and IT/OT convergence in manufacturing.
  • Leadership experience managing cross-functional teams and external system integrators.

What We Offer
At Ferrara, we're proud to support our employees with comprehensive benefits that enhance health, financial wellness, and include paid time off (PTO). Eligible employees may also receive an annual bonus based on company performance. Learn more about our benefits at https://flimp.live/Ferrara-Benefits-Resource-Center
Compensation
The salary range for this role is $114,450 to $160,230 annually.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, employment decisions and opportunities at Ferrara will be based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital or civil union status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, military or veteran status, disability, handicap, genetic information, pregnancy (childbirth or related medical condition), or on any other basis prohibited by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training.
Nearest Major Market: Chicago

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