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Contract Robotics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Naperville, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Skokie, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

MSI Express, Inc.

Controls Engineer

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$85 - $125/hr

Program PLCs, HMIs, robots, and other control devices to meet system requirements. * Collaborate ... We are a single-source contract manufacturing and packaging company, delivering innovative ...

New

TechStaff, Inc

Welding Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36.75 - $50.75/hr

... and contract reviews to satisfy welding and NDT inspection requirements; develop welder, brazer ... robotic and semi-automatic welding equipment, induction heat treatment equipment, and weld ...

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All JobsContract Robotics Engineer JobsContract Robotics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Contract Robotics Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29.9K

$108.8K

$174.1K

How much do contract robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract robotics engineer in Chicago, IL is $108,788.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,000.00 and $130,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract robotics engineer?

A Contract Robotics Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and programs robotic systems on a temporary or project-based basis. They typically work with companies to create automation solutions, improve manufacturing processes, or develop new robotic applications. Unlike full-time employees, contract engineers are hired for specific projects and may work with multiple clients. Their responsibilities often include hardware design, software development, system integration, and testing. This role requires expertise in robotics engineering, programming, and problem-solving to deliver efficient and innovative robotic solutions.

What types of projects and daily tasks can a contract robotics engineer expect to work on?

As a Contract Robotics Engineer, you may work on a variety of projects, such as developing robotic automation for manufacturing lines, designing mobile robot prototypes, or troubleshooting existing robotic systems. Your daily tasks could include writing and testing control software, integrating hardware components, conducting system simulations, and collaborating with cross-functional teams like mechanical engineers or project managers. Assignments are often dynamic, requiring you to quickly adapt to new technologies and workflows. This variety offers opportunities to build diverse technical skills and make impactful contributions across multiple industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract robotics engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Robotics Engineer, you should possess strong proficiency in robotics systems design, programming (such as C++, Python, or ROS), and a relevant engineering degree. Experience with CAD tools, embedded systems, control algorithms, and, optionally, certifications like Certified Robotics Programmer are valuable assets. Excellent problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and adaptability help individuals excel in contractor environments where teams and projects change frequently. These skills ensure you can efficiently deliver innovative solutions, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and navigate the unique demands of contract-based work.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contract Robotics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Robotics Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,874 per year, or $52.3 per hour.

Automation Engineer (Robotics)

Northbrook, IL

Sterling Engineering Inc.
See more jobs at Sterling Engineering Inc.external

$45 - $48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Automation Engineer (Robotics)
Location: Northbrook, IL
Hire Type: Contract | Through October 31, with potential to extend
Pay Rate: $45.00–$48.00/hour
Benefits: PTO, paid holidays, BCBS medical plans, dental/vision plans, 401(k), & ESOP
Work Schedule: 1st Shift | Flexible start time, ideally 7:00–8:00 AM

Job Summary:
We are seeking an Automation Engineer to provide hands-on engineering support for robotics, laser equipment, and automated manufacturing systems. This role will help bring new robotic and laser equipment online, troubleshoot and improve existing systems, and support Operations with equipment reliability, quality, and production needs. The ideal candidate has strong practical automation experience and can work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Must-Have Skills:
  • Automation & Robotics: Strong hands-on experience with industrial automation, robotics, and controls systems.
  • PLC & Controls: Experience with PLC programming, ladder logic, electrical controls, sensors, actuators, and related systems.
  • Troubleshooting: Ability to diagnose complex equipment and controls issues and perform system testing.
  • Manufacturing Engineering: Experience applying automation and engineering solutions in a manufacturing environment.
  • Project Management: Ability to manage automation projects and coordinate with Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and external integrators.
Job Duties:
  • Design, program, test, install, and maintain automated manufacturing systems.
  • Support the startup, integration, and troubleshooting of robotic and laser equipment.
  • Program and integrate robotics, PLCs, ladder logic, pneumatics, sensors, actuators, and vision systems.
  • Provide hands-on troubleshooting and technical support for manufacturing equipment.
  • Coordinate with external integrators to ensure successful delivery and implementation of automation projects.
  • Develop test plans, work instructions, technical documentation, qualification materials, and reports.
  • Lead continuous improvement projects focused on yield, quality, cycle time, capacity, and cost reduction.
  • Identify manufacturing process improvement opportunities and develop practical automation solutions.
  • Support equipment upgrades, repairs, installations, and qualification activities.
  • Assess manufacturing capacity and recommend improvements to meet production requirements.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Controls Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience with automation, electrical controls design, and PLC programming, preferably in manufacturing.
  • 3+ years of experience programming and integrating robotics, PLCs, ladder logic, pneumatics, sensors, actuators, and vision systems.
  • Understanding of computer programming and software development.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across Operations, Quality, Maintenance, and Engineering.
  • Comfortable working hands-on in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities.
  • Willingness to support off-shift or weekend troubleshooting, installations, or critical production needs when necessary.


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.