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Electrical Instrumentation Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Electrical Instrumentation Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$75.2K

$115K

$165.3K

How much do electrical instrumentation engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical instrumentation engineering in Chicago, IL is $115,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,300.00 and $132,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Electrical Instrumentation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electrical Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, process control, and instrumentation, often supported by a bachelor's degree in electrical or instrumentation engineering. Familiarity with PLCs, DCS, SCADA systems, and relevant certifications such as ISA CAP or EIT are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and complex environments. These skills ensure safe, reliable, and optimized operation of automated and industrial systems.

Is eie better than ece?

Electrical Instrumentation Engineering (EIE) and Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) are distinct fields; EIE focuses on instrumentation, control systems, and automation, while ECE emphasizes electronics, communication systems, and signal processing. The choice depends on career interests, industry demand, and skill sets, with EIE often aligned with industries like manufacturing and process control, and ECE with telecommunications and consumer electronics.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced electrical instrumentation engineers working in industries such as oil and gas, aerospace, or power generation can reach salaries of $500,000 or more, especially with advanced certifications, specialized skills, and leadership roles. These positions often involve managing complex systems, large teams, or project oversight in high-stakes environments.

What is the difference between Electrical Instrumentation Engineering vs Electrical Engineering?

AspectElectrical Instrumentation EngineeringElectrical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical or Instrumentation Engineering, certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, PE license (optional)
Work EnvironmentFactories, process plants, automation systemsPower plants, electrical design firms, manufacturing
Industry UsageIndustrial automation, control systems, instrumentationPower systems, electronics, telecommunications

Electrical Instrumentation Engineering focuses on designing, installing, and maintaining control and instrumentation systems used in industrial processes. Electrical Engineering covers a broader range of electrical systems, including power distribution, electronics, and telecommunications. Both roles often share certifications and work environments but differ in specialization and scope.

What is Electrical Instrumentation Engineering?

Electrical Instrumentation Engineering is a specialized field that focuses on the design, development, installation, and maintenance of instruments and devices used to measure and control electrical systems and processes. Professionals in this field ensure the accuracy and reliability of equipment that monitors variables such as voltage, current, pressure, temperature, and flow in industrial and manufacturing settings. They play a crucial role in automating processes, improving efficiency, and maintaining safety standards in industries like power generation, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Electrical instrumentation engineers can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles in industries like oil and gas, power generation, or manufacturing. High salaries often involve specialized skills in control systems, automation, and the use of tools like PLCs and SCADA systems.

What are some typical challenges Electrical Instrumentation Engineers face when working on large-scale industrial projects?

Electrical Instrumentation Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new instrumentation systems with existing legacy equipment, ensuring compliance with strict industry safety and regulatory standards, and managing tight project timelines. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including process engineers, electricians, and project managers—is key to overcoming these obstacles. Effective troubleshooting skills and adaptability are crucial, as unexpected technical issues or supply chain delays can arise during installation and commissioning phases.

What does an electrical and instrumentation engineer do?

An electrical and instrumentation engineer designs, develops, and maintains electrical systems and control instruments used in industrial processes. They work with control systems, sensors, and automation equipment, often using tools like PLCs and SCADA, to ensure efficient and safe operation of facilities. The role typically requires knowledge of electrical codes, instrumentation calibration, and safety standards.
What job categories do people searching Electrical Instrumentation Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Electrical Instrumentation Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Electrical Instrumentation Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,025 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Instrumentation & Electrical Engineer II

Zachry Group

Downers Grove, IL

$84K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

New


Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

64th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Zachry Engineering Corporation is seeking an experienced Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) Engineer II to join our team in Downers Grove, Illinois. The successful candidate will provide engineering support for industrial and energy-related projects, including power generation, chemical, refining, manufacturing, and infrastructure facilities. This role is responsible for the development, design, and execution of electrical and instrumentation engineering deliverables while collaborating with multidisciplinary project teams to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective project execution.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or a related engineering discipline.

    • Minimum of 2-7 years of electrical and instrumentation engineering experience in industrial, power, chemical, refining, manufacturing, or EPC environments.
    • Working knowledge of electrical distribution systems and industrial instrumentation.
    • Experience developing engineering design packages and technical specifications.
    • Familiarity with applicable industry standards and codes, including:
      • NEC
      • NFPA
      • IEEE
      • ISA
      • NEMA
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
    • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
    • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.

    Preferred Qualifications
    • Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain licensure.
    • Experience supporting EPC or consulting engineering projects.
    • Familiarity with electrical analysis software such as ETAP, SKM, or EasyPower.
    • Experience with AutoCAD, SmartPlant Instrumentation (SPI), SmartPlant Electrical (SPEL), or similar engineering tools.
    • Knowledge of DCS, PLC, and SCADA systems.
    • Previous experience supporting energy transition, power generation, renewables, or industrial process facilities.

Physical Demands

Employee will be required to communicate in person, via telephone, email, use of arm/hand steadiness, manual dexterity, finger dexterity, multi limb coordination, oral expression, and comprehension. May be required to lift, carry and move objects safely.

Work Environment

Employee will work in multiple environments including an office, warehouse and in a trailer or building on construction sites. On construction sites, noise levels will be moderate to high. Job sites may contain the following: light to heavy equipment vehicles, small to large equipment, materials, communication equipment and tools, people standing, walking, sitting, signaling, and talking. Noise levels vary and may include bells, whistles, and alarms.

The above description covers the fundamental responsibilities of the I&C Engineer II position. It shall not be construed as a complete listing of all miscellaneous, incidental or similar duties which may be required from day-to-day.

Zachry Group is dedicated to providing a SAFE and Drug Free work environment; and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

 This position Instrumentation & Control Engineer III is eligible for participation in Zachry's Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.

In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Illinois position, I & C II is between $84,400 and $115,000, annually.   Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law. 

  • Develop electrical and instrumentation engineering designs for industrial facilities and infrastructure projects.

    • Prepare and review engineering deliverables, including:
      • Single-line diagrams
      • Electrical equipment specifications
      • Motor control schematics
      • Instrument datasheets
      • Instrument index and I/O lists
      • Loop diagrams
      • Cable schedules
      • Area classification drawings
    • Perform electrical load studies, voltage drop calculations, short circuit studies, and equipment sizing calculations.
    • Support the design and specification of:
      • Medium- and low-voltage power distribution systems
      • Motor control centers (MCCs)
      • Variable frequency drives (VFDs)
      • Switchgear and transformers
      • Process instrumentation and control systems
    • Review vendor drawings, technical submittals, and equipment documentation.
    • Coordinate with process, mechanical, structural, civil, and piping disciplines to ensure integrated project execution.
    • Participate in design reviews, HAZOPs, constructability reviews, and project planning meetings.
    • Support procurement activities, including technical bid evaluations and vendor selection.
    • Assist with field support activities during construction, commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting efforts.
    • Ensure engineering designs comply with client requirements, industry codes, applicable regulations, and company standards.
    • Mentor junior engineers and designers as assigned.

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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924