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Electrical Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

viaPhoton

Electrical Automation Engineer

Aurora, IL

A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Motion Controls, or a related field * 3 to 5 years delivering complex automation solutions from concept to deployment * Have ...

Wesa Automation

Automation Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

At Wesa Automation, we provide state-of-the-art engineering, automation, and controls integration ... Our team of electrical control specialists combines deep expertise with innovative thinking to ...

Atlas Fibre

Automation Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Ability to read electrical schematics and troubleshoot industrial controls. * Strong understanding ... Industrial Robot Programming * Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment * PLC Programming ...

Atlas Fibre

Automation Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$48.08 - $72.12/hr

Ability to read electrical schematics and troubleshoot industrial controls. * Strong understanding ... Industrial Robot Programming * Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment * PLC Programming ...

Torrey Holistics

Automation Engineer

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Ability to read electrical schematics and troubleshoot industrial controls.Strong understanding of ... Industrial Automation EquipmentPLC Programming ExperienceProgramming Machine Vision ...

New

JLL

Senior Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL

$107K - $140K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, OR 3+ years equivalent professional experience. * 5+ years of PLC-controlled automation ...

JLL

Senior Automation Engineer

Monee, IL

$100K - $132K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, automation engineering, or equivalent, OR 3+ years equivalent professional experience. * 5+ years of PLC-controlled automation ...

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All JobsElectrical Automation Engineer JobsElectrical Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Electrical Automation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$94.9K

$126.2K

How much do electrical automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical automation engineer in Chicago, IL is $94,908.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,400.00 and $106,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an electrical automation engineer do?

An Electrical Automation Engineer designs, develops, and maintains automated electrical systems used in manufacturing, processing, or other industrial environments. They work with technologies such as PLCs (programmable logic controllers), SCADA systems, sensors, and robotics to streamline processes and improve efficiency. Their responsibilities often include programming automation equipment, troubleshooting system issues, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to implement automation solutions safely and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical automation engineer?

To thrive as an Electrical Automation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and control theory, usually supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency in PLC programming, SCADA systems, AutoCAD, and industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding engineers apart in this field. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems critical to efficient industrial operations.

How does an electrical automation engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Electrical Automation Engineers frequently work in cross-functional teams, collaborating closely with mechanical engineers, software developers, and production managers. Their role often involves translating production requirements into automated solutions, coordinating with IT for system integration, and ensuring compliance with safety standards alongside the health and safety team. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as they must align automation strategies with both operational goals and technical constraints, participating in regular meetings and project reviews to ensure successful implementation.

What is the difference between Electrical Automation Engineer vs Electrical Controls Engineer?

AspectElectrical Automation EngineerElectrical Controls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, certifications in automation systemsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, certifications in control systems
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation system designControl panel design, system troubleshooting, automation integration
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, process industries, automation companiesManufacturing, industrial automation, machinery companies

Electrical Automation Engineers focus on designing and implementing automated systems using PLCs, SCADA, and robotics, while Electrical Controls Engineers specialize in control panel design, wiring, and troubleshooting control systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping industries, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

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

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

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

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

Electrical Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electrical Automation Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,908 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Electrical Automation Engineer

viaPhoton

Aurora, IL

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Who We Are

We are changing the norm by being customer-focused, technology-led. viaPhoton is reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. We design and deliver custom-engineered, end-to-end fiber connectivity solutions for the data centers, 5G networks, and AI infrastructure shaping the next decade, and our customers need them in weeks, not months. In five years we've grown to a team of 200+ and 4x'd our revenue in the last year alone, and we're just getting started. We're looking for people who want to do their best work with a team that's moving fast.

About the Role

You'll own the electrical design of one-of-a-kind automation machines that power fiber optic manufacturing, from PCBAs to full electrical enclosures. This is hands-on work that brings together machine vision, precision motion control, and electrical safety. You'll see projects through from concept to deployment and watch your designs improve how we produce for the world's biggest cloud providers.

  • Own the electrical design of automation machines and PCBAs, from greenfield concepts to legacy redesigns
  • Build novel automation machines that bring together machine vision, precision motion control, and creative design
  • Validate electrical enclosures for human and environmental safety against standards like UL508A, NFPA 79, and ISO 13849
  • Develop and deploy computer vision systems for real-time applications, including camera calibration, lighting, and micron-level resolution
  • Collaborate across engineering, operations, and production teams to deliver solutions that work on the floor

What You'll Bring

  • A bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, Motion Controls, or a related field
  • 3 to 5 years delivering complex automation solutions from concept to deployment
  • Have designed, documented, and fabricated automation electrical cabinets
  • Hands-on experience with motion control (stepper and servo motors, solenoids, collaborative robots) and sensor integration (camera, RFID, proximity)
  • Proficiency with PCBA design and test tools, plus programming in Python, C/C++, and PLC ladder programming (a cross-disciplined background is a plus)

What's in it for you?

  • Robust health, dental, and vision coverage that starts on day 1
  • 401(k) with 4% match, vests immediately after a 90-day waiting period
  • Flexible PTO that grows over time
  • 10 paid holidays, including 2 floating holidays
  • Monthly team events
  • Click here to view our full benefits overview.

Location: Naperville, IL

Schedule: Mon–Fri | Onsite

Compensation: $75,000 to $100,000 base, plus annual bonus

We're building something big, and we want good people along for the ride. If that sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today.

At viaPhoton, we are committed to furthering our culture of inclusion. We reinforce this through our core values and beliefs as well as our processes and strategic goals. We remind team members to seek various viewpoints, learn and be hungry with curiosity, and gain trust.

We are an equal opportunity employer and make all employment decisions based on merit and qualifications. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, health condition, genetic information, marital or family status, military or veteran status, socioeconomic background, or any other status protected by applicable law.

We provide reasonable accommodations and adjustments throughout the hiring process. If you need one, please let us know. Any personal data you share with us is handled confidentially and in line with applicable data protection law.