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Building Controls Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Controls Technician

Frankfort, IL · On-site

$50 - $57/hr

Training Building Automation Solutions provides building managers with the powerful automation ... The Controls Technician will program, install, troubleshoot and providing engineering assistance on ...

Controls Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $105/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

A well-established and rapidly expanding building automation provider is seeking an experienced BAS Controls Engineer to support projects throughout the Chicagoland region. This role offers ...

New

Controls Engineer

Portage, IN · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... relate to facilities and building automation. KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES/PRIMARY DUTIES ... Manage and lead controls-related projects from initiation to completion, ensuring adherence to ...

Showing results 21-40

Building Controls information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19

$34

$50

How much do building controls jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for building controls in Chicago, IL is $35.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.71 and $39.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are building controls?

Building controls are systems and devices used to manage, monitor, and automate a building’s environment and operations, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and security. These controls help improve energy efficiency, occupant comfort, and operational performance by allowing centralized or automated adjustments based on real-time data. Modern building controls often integrate with smart technologies and can be accessed remotely. They play a crucial role in reducing energy costs and maintaining optimal building conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a building controls specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Building Controls Specialist, you need a strong background in HVAC systems, electrical engineering, and building automation, often supported by a relevant degree or technical certification. Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and software such as Tridium Niagara or Siemens Desigo is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating with facility teams and troubleshooting systems. These skills ensure energy-efficient, safe, and reliable building operations that meet occupant and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in building controls, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Building Controls often encounter challenges such as integrating new systems with existing infrastructure, troubleshooting complex automation issues, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technology standards. Effective communication with facility managers and other trades is essential to ensure smooth system operation and timely resolution of issues. Staying current with training and certifications, as well as developing strong problem-solving skills, can help address these challenges and lead to greater success in the role.

What is the difference between Building Controls vs HVAC Technician?

AspectBuilding ControlsHVAC Technician
CredentialsCertifications in controls systems, HVAC, or electrical workHVAC certification, EPA license, technical training
Work EnvironmentCommercial, industrial buildings, control system installationsResidential, commercial buildings, HVAC system maintenance
Industry UsageDesign, install, and troubleshoot building automation systemsInstall, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems

Building Controls and HVAC Technicians often work together but focus on different aspects of building systems. Building Controls specialists primarily handle automation and control systems, while HVAC Technicians focus on heating and cooling systems. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital in building maintenance and energy efficiency.

How do I become a building controls technician?

To become a building controls technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by technical training or an apprenticeship in HVAC, electrical systems, or building automation. Certifications such as the Certified Building Commissioning Professional (CBCP) or manufacturer-specific training can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with control systems like BACnet or LonWorks is often required.
Infographic showing various Building Controls job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,793 per year, or $35 per hour.

Controls Systems Technician (union)

Johnson Controls

Calumet City, IL • On-site

$25.21 - $39.92/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 410 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 542 rated manufacturers


Job description

What you will do

Performs assigned system commissioning using Johnson Controls configuration and commissioning tools. Troubleshoots and resolves basic HVAC mechanical, electrical, and controls problems. Responds to basic warranty calls. Provide our customers with the highest level of service to solve building inefficiencies and resolve service-related items. As a trusted advisor to our customers, you will provide solutions and outcomes at the time of service.

How you will do it

  • Loads system-level controller software.

  • Performs basic commissioning and system diagnostics from system-level controllers to end devices (i.e. sensors, actuators, etc.) and completes all required commissioning documentation.

  • Keeps management and JCI contractor or customer informed of job progress and issues.

  • Calibrates systems requiring basic electronic test equipment.

  • Completes administrative tasks including but not limited to time sheets, expense reports, and on-site documentation.

  • Documents change and provide information for as-built documentation.

  • Communicates with the JCI contractor or customer upon arrival and before leaving the work site.

  • Follows all safety standards and attends required safety training. High degree of regard to employee and subcontractor safety.

  • Provide recommendations and solutions to ensure facility is running efficiently to include upselling opportunities.

  • Provide quotes to support recommendations and solutions.

What we look for

Required

  • Vocational School four-year program or an Associate degree in electronics, mechanical systems, computer technology, air conditioning or similar field plus three years of industry experience or 1 year experience in servicing electronic and/or mechanical systems in the HVAC industry.

  • Install and route low-voltage wiring, including bending and securing conduit, mounting control panels, and installing field devices in accordance with project drawings and standards.

  • Perform controller and device "trim-out," including terminating and labeling I/O points, verifying wiring, and assisting with startup/checkout of BAS controls systems

  • Generally required knowledge includes HVAC controls systems, facilities management systems, site preparation, peripheral equipment installation and servicing techniques.

  • Effective interpersonal skills to properly represent Johnson Controls to customers and other outside contacts in an ethical and professional manner.

  • Ability to explain technical information to technical and non-technical people. Leadership skills to support the activities of Mechanics working on non-complex, non-critical Building Automation equipment on a job site.

  • PC experience required and the ability to program HVAC related software.

What Benefits are Provided

  • Paid Time Off

  • Retirement benefit

  • Medical insurance benefit

PayRange: $25.21 - 39.92 hourly ratedeterminedby the CBA/rate sheet. Benefits are provided through a local labor union aligned with a collective bargaining agreement. The posted salary range reflects the target compensation for this role. However, we recognize that exceptional candidates may bring unique skills and experiences that exceed the typical profile. If you believe your background warrants consideration beyond the stated range, we encourage you to apply. To support an efficient and fair hiring process, we may use technologyassistedtools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to helpidentifyand evaluate candidates. All hiring decisions areultimately madeby human reviewers.

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Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.


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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US