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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 Sep 14, 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 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 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 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.

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.

Are electrical instrumentation engineers in demand?

Electrical instrumentation engineers are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and oil and gas, where they design, install, and maintain control systems and instrumentation. The demand is driven by ongoing infrastructure development, automation, and the need for specialized skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and calibration. Job prospects are generally strong for those with relevant certifications and experience in industrial environments.

What does an electrical instrumentation engineer do?

An electrical instrumentation engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems and instrumentation used in industrial processes. They work with sensors, controllers, and automation equipment to ensure accurate measurement and control of electrical and electronic systems, often using tools like PLCs and SCADA systems. Their role involves troubleshooting, calibration, and ensuring safety standards in environments such as manufacturing plants and power facilities.

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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,025 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Controls and Instrumentation Engineer

Chicago, IL • On-site

PVS Detroit
Chemical Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


PVS Chemicals rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About PVS Chemicals, Inc.
PVS enables our world through the safe and reliable delivery of chemistry, either created by us or sourced through trusted partners. The products and services that we provide touch everyone in some unique way. We are passionate about the work we do and abide by our guiding principles, The Nicholson Nine, to be a safe and sustainable chemical provider the world trusts. With a career at PVS, you'll play a vital role in the daily lives of millions of people.
Description: The Controls and Instrumentation Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining projects along with maintenance training, procedures, and processes relevant to electrical apparatuses, instrumentation, and controls to operate and maintain the plant in a safe, environmentally responsible, reliable, and cost-effective manner.
To fulfill these responsibilities, the Controls and Instrumentation Engineer is empowered to manage work priority, engage the proper resources to develop and implement equipment, process, and administrative standards, identify training opportunities throughout the plant, and recommend asset selection criteria and installation standards. The Controls and Instrumentation Engineer will provide technical support and guidance to the maintenance supervisor who will direct and be responsible for the performance of the electrical and instrumentation technicians and contractors relative to safety, environment, reliability, quality, efficiency, and cost control.
Responsibilities (May include but are not limited to):
  • Planning and prioritizing electrical and instrumentation activities.
  • Provide technical guidance and oversight of maintenance personnel and contractors in testing, calibration, and repairs of pneumatic, mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, and electronic measuring, recording, indicating, and control instruments/equipment.
  • Ensure all installations, inspections, calibrations, and repairs are performed in conformance with established standards.
  • Coordinate directly with the storeroom clerk to maintain an inventory of parts and materials. Approve purchases of materials and equipment. Requisition tools, supplies, materials, and equipment.
  • Electrical and Instrumentation Technician Training Program
  • Electrical and Instrumentation Contractor Qualification and Selection
  • CMMS Utilization and PM Program
  • Mechanical Integrity Program
  • Root Cause Failure Analysis and Failure Mode Trend Analysis
  • Shutdown and Turnaround Planning, Work Prioritization, and Project Management
  • Project management for capital and expense projects
  • Understand how plant operates (hands on method) and understand the different capabilities of the plant.
  • Continuously look for opportunities to improve plant operations for safety, cost reduction, and energy efficiencies.
  • Participate in HAZOP and PHA analysis and reviews.
  • Uphold the fundamentals of the Nicholson Nine and Responsible Care Guiding Principles. Environmental Health, Safety and Security are a responsibility of every PVS Employee.

Leadership Team Responsibilities
  • Provide 24/7 support for critical situations.
  • Participate in Management of Change process as needed.
  • Participate in Responsible Care and Department of Homeland security initiatives.
  • Assist sites in SOP development, review, and implementation.
  • Recognize and reward good performance, correct poor performance.
  • Incident Commander and Emergency Response Team Member
  • Rotating Duty Supervisor
  • Department KPI's
  • Identify and facilitate training opportunities for plant personnel.
  • Provide support and vacation coverage for peers as needed.
  • Participate in other activities and assignments as necessary.

Supervision Received
Must be disciplined, self-motivated, and mentally alert with the ability to work with minimal guidance and supervision to meet plant objectives and deadlines.
Required Education / Competencies / Equivalent Experience (Prior to hire / transfer):
  • Excellent safety standards; skilled in following safety practices, recognizing hazards, and mitigating risks.
  • Three to five years of chemical manufacturing experience and working knowledge of the following topics: pH, flow, temperature, pressure, conductivity and mass measurements, electrical heat tracing, AC and DC control methods, 24V-13.8KV electrical systems and troubleshooting, VFD's, smart meters, PLC/DCS control methods, automated systems, control valves, one-line electrical diagrams, blueprint reading, mathematics, and preventive/predictive maintenance technologies.
  • Experience in applying industry consensus standards (NFPA, ISA, API, NACE, ANSI, ASTM, etc.)
  • Able to work as a team player and as a leader to promote a safe and reliable culture in the plant.
  • Strong knowledge and experience with CMMS, Maintenance Planning and Scheduling, PM Optimization, PdM Technologies, and RCFA Methodologies
  • Positive change leader
  • Good time management skills and work ethic.
  • Strong willingness to learn and desire to be hands on and in a plant setting.
  • Demonstrate professional demeanor, ethical conduct, and excellent reputation for integrity.
  • Ability to recognize a potential problem and have a strong desire to resolve it.
  • Demonstrated ability to organize work and set priorities to meet deadlines while working independently or in groups.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills with multiple levels in the organization and external suppliers.
  • Proficient with MS Office applications.
  • Additional certifications or licensure appropriate to the job may be required.

Preferred Experience
  • BS in Electrical Engineering preferred but not required for qualified candidates.
  • Licensed Electrician within Chicago, Illinois
  • Project management skills to ensure optimal life cycle costs, schedule, and budget.
  • Experience working in a PSM / RMP facility.

Location / Reporting Relationship
The position is based in Chicago and reports to the PVS Chemical Solutions - Chicago Technical Manager.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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