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Automation Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Wesa Automation

Automation Engineer

Elgin, IL

$90K - $130K/yr

At Wesa Automation, we provide state-of-the-art engineering, automation, and controls integration solutions that keep industries moving forward. Our team of electrical control specialists combines ...

JLL

Automation Engineer

Monee, IL · On-site

Automation Engineer - JLL What this job involves: We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement automation control systems for industrial processes and warehouse ...

Amphenol ICC

Advanced Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Advanced Automation Engineer - HSIO Overpass Solutions Location: Nashua, NH / Valley Green, PA / Chicago, IL SUMMARY The Automation Engineer will focus on developing and supporting automation ...

JLL

Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL

Automation Engineer - JLL What this job involves: We are seeking an experienced Automation Engineer to design, develop, and implement automation control systems for industrial processes and warehouse ...

Vesuvius

Be Seen First

Automation Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

Automation Engineers split their time between in-office and on-site work. When in office, the job consists of engineering the project, PLC/HMI programming, testing, production of documentation to ...

Vesuvius USA

Automation Engineer

Champaign, IL · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Automation Engineers split their time between in-office and on-site work. When in office, the job consists of engineering the project, PLC/HMI programming, testing, production of documentation to ...

Atlas Fibre

Automation Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

... automation cell in production. This position is intended for a robotics and controls engineer--not someone whose experience is primarily in project management or electrical design. The right ...

Baxter and Woodman Inc

Automation Engineer

Mokena, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

Automation Engineer Choose your location: Naperville, or Mokena, IL Why you should join our team! Why Concentric Integration? At Concentric Integration, both seasoned professionals and recent ...

JLL

Senior Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$107K - $140K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer will ensure all work aligns with company policies and procedures, with safety as the highest priority. What your day-to-day will look like: * Serve assitetechnical ...

Baxter & Woodman

Automation Engineer

Peoria, IL · On-site +1

$100K - $120K/yr

Automation Engineer Choose your location: Peoria, IL Why you should join our team! Why Concentric Integration? At Concentric Integration, both seasoned professionals and recent graduates find more ...

JLL

Senior Automation Engineer

Matteson, IL · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer will ensure all work aligns with company policies and procedures, with safety as the highest priority. What your day-to-day will look like: * Serve assitetechnical ...

JLL

Senior Automation Engineer

Monee, IL · On-site

$100K - $132K/yr

The Senior Automation Engineer will ensure all work aligns with company policies and procedures, with safety as the highest priority. What your day-to-day will look like: * Serve assitetechnical ...

Atlas Fibre

Automation Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$48.08 - $72.12/hr

... automation cell in production. This position is intended for a robotics and controls engineer--not someone whose experience is primarily in project management or electrical design. The right ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Automation Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$103.8K

$158K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer in Illinois is $103,808.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,800.00 and $119,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation engineer?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

What does an automation engineer do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

What are some common challenges automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

More about Automation Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Automation Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Automation Engineer job openings:

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

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

Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $103,808 per year, or $49.9 per hour.

Automation Engineer

Elgin, IL

Wesa Automation
Industrial Automation Equipment Manufacturing • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Wesa Automationexternal

$90K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Be Ready, Be Recognized — Grow Your Expertise Driving Automation Across Industries with Wesa 

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

At Wesa Automation, we provide state-of-the-art engineering, automation, and controls integration solutions that keep industries moving forward. Our team of electrical control specialists combines deep expertise with innovative thinking to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions that put our clients ahead of the curve. 

For nearly a decade, we’ve designed, built, installed, and maintained automation systems across chemical, petrochemical, distribution, packaging, and other industries. Our services span controls engineering, design, programming, panel fabrication, installation, and commissioning—always with a focus on safety, quality, and lasting partnerships. 

When you join Wesa, you become part of a collaborative team where your skills grow, your ideas are valued, and your career path has no limits. Here, you’ll have the chance to make an impact in industries that shape the world. 

We’re proud to be part of Industria, a leading electrical provider serving mission critical, industrial, commercial, and government sectors. Backed by Industria’s end-to-end expertise—from strategy to maintenance—we deliver innovative, reliable solutions that help clients streamline operations, boost output, and power the systems that keep industries and communities moving forward. 

We’re looking for a dedicated, Automation Engineer, who is excited to contribute their skills, grow their career, and be part of a supportive, collaborative team. If you’re passionate about the electrical field and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply—whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career. #WESA

 
 What you will do… 
  • Work primarily on projects and service engagements at clients located in and around Elgin & Surrounding areas 
  • Up to 30% domestic travel required 
  • Specify automation and electrical components and software to meet customer specifications, application requirements, and industrial standards
  • Design and configure PLC programs to optimize performance or resolve complex controls issues
  • Support commissioning and startup of control systems with ability to identify and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software issues
  • Provide on-site and remote support for installed systems requiring technical service assistance, troubleshooting, and repairs
  • Determine root cause of electrical, mechanical, and software failures and implement solutions to prevent recurrence
  • Organize and maintain project files
  • Work with project managers and engineering manager to schedule and prioritize tasks 
 What you will need to succeed… 
  • Experience in design and implementation of industrial control systems or control panels
  • AS/BS in Engineering or Engineering Technology or demonstrated experience in industry
  • Experience preferred in one or more of the following: Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider, GE, Omron, Automation Direct, or other PLC
  • Experience preferred in one or more of the following: Emerson DeltaV, Honeywell Experion, ABB 800xA, or other DCS 
    Experience preferred in one or more of the following: FactoryTalk View, WinCC, Tatsoft, Ignition, iFix, Wonderware, or other HMI/SCADA
  • Experience with AC drives, DC drives, motion control, robotics, machine vision, functional safety
  • Ability to coordinate multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment 
 Physical Demands 
  • The requirements below represent the general physical expectations of this role. We recognize that individuals may meet these requirements in different ways, and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation so that all qualified individuals can perform the essential functions.
  • Ability to lift up to 60 pounds; some lifting may be required from knee to shoulder height or other levels.
  • Ability to carry and transport up to 60 pounds for short distances (up to 20 feet).
  • Role requires periods of standing and moving, including stretching, reaching, walking, stooping, pushing, and pulling.
  • Work may take place in varied environments that can be cold, hot, noisy, or wet, and may include exposure to odors or fumes.
  • If you require accommodation at any point in the hiring process or on the job, we encourage you to let us know. 

 The base pay range for this position is $90,000 to $130,000 per year. Please note that the compensation range reflects the base pay only and does not include benefits or bonuses this role may be eligible to receive. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by bona fide factors such as geographic work location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Additional Information 
  • This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
  • We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to an inclusive workplace for all employees. All applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
  • Harassment of applicants or employees based on any protected characteristic is strictly prohibited.
  • This job description outlines the general duties and responsibilities of the position. These may evolve over time in response to business needs. 
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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