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Entry Level Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Gotion, Inc.

Junior Equipment Engineer

Manteno, IL · On-site

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build expertise in industrial equipment, automation, and battery manufacturing within a global organization. Key ...

KEYENCE

Technical Marketing Engineer

Itasca, IL

$83K/yr

... Entry-Level | Full-Time Location: KEYENCE Headquarters - Itasca, IL At KEYENCE , we don't just ... As a global leader in factory automation, we innovate relentlessly to empower our customers and ...

KEYENCE

Field Application Engineer '27

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$53K - $80K/yr

Locations | Entry-Level | Full-Time Are you ready to launch your career with one of the world ... automation and technology. What You'll Do As a Field Application Engineer , you'll be at the ...

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All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsEntry Level Automation Engineer JobsEntry Level Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Automation Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$38.1K

$110.4K

$167.9K

How much do entry level automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level automation engineer in Chicago, IL is $110,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,100.00 and $127,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Automation Engineer position, and why are they important?

To excel as an Entry Level Automation Engineer, you should have a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Python or Java), basic engineering principles, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with industrial automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and experience with automation testing software, as well as certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP), are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies ensure you can efficiently create, test, and integrate automated solutions in both collaborative and technical environments.

What is an Entry Level Automation Engineer job?

An Entry Level Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing automation systems to improve efficiency in manufacturing, software development, or other technical processes. They typically work with tools like PLCs, scripting languages, or robotic systems to automate repetitive tasks. Their role involves collaborating with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and ensure systems operate smoothly. This position requires basic programming knowledge, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of automation principles. It serves as a foundation for advancing into more specialized engineering roles in automation and control systems.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of an Entry Level Automation Engineer?

As an Entry Level Automation Engineer, your daily tasks may include writing and testing code for automation scripts, helping to design or modify automated systems, troubleshooting issues that arise in automation workflows, and assisting with equipment setup or calibration. You’ll often collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, learning about various industry processes and participating in project meetings. Documentation of your work and analysis of system performance are also common aspects of the job. These responsibilities provide a solid foundation in automation engineering and offer valuable hands-on experience for career growth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Automation Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Automation Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 86% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,356 per year, or $53.1 per hour.
Junior Equipment Engineer

Junior Equipment Engineer

Gotion, Inc.

Manteno, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA, currently building a Manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL and has R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan and Europe. We innovate in the next generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development. Gotion is powered by a leading power battery technology company that provides solutions for vehicles including the world's first mass commercial e-bus route.
Gotion is a career destination - we are not simply attempting to just fill another job, but to pursue a dream of global green energy together! We offer outstanding opportunities to individuals seeking an exciting and challenging working environment. Everyone is highly valued and plays a vital role in the growth of our organization.
Job Description: Junior Equipment Engineer
Location: Manteno, Illinois
Company Overview
Gotion Inc. is based in Silicon Valley, CA and is currently building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Manteno, IL, with R&D centers in Ohio, China, Japan, and Europe. We innovate next-generation electric vehicle and energy storage technologies (lithium batteries and related systems) with the aim to accelerate electrified transportation and achieve sustainable development.
Gotion is a career destination-we are not simply filling jobs, but pursuing a shared vision for global green energy. Every team member plays a vital role in the growth and success of our organization.
Job Summary:
The Junior Equipment Engineer supports the installation, commissioning, maintenance, and optimization of manufacturing equipment used in lithium battery cell production. Working closely with senior equipment engineers, vendors, and production teams, this role focuses on hands-on learning, technical support, and continuous improvement in a fast-paced, automated manufacturing environment.
This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for an early-career engineer seeking to build expertise in industrial equipment, automation, and battery manufacturing within a global organization.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist senior engineers with the installation, commissioning, and validation of equipment used in:
    • Electrode manufacturing
    • Coating and calendaring
    • Stacking/winding
    • Electrolyte injection, sealing, formation, and packaging
  • Support equipment acceptance testing (FAT/SAT) and documentation under guidance
  • Help coordinate activities with vendors and internal teams during equipment setup
  • Support preventive maintenance activities to ensure stable equipment operation and minimize downtime
  • Assist in troubleshooting basic mechanical, electrical, and automation-related equipment issues
  • Document issues, corrective actions, and maintenance records in accordance with company procedures
  • Escalate complex problems to senior engineers as needed
  • Collect and analyze basic equipment performance and downtime data
  • Support equipment parameter adjustments and optimization efforts under supervision
  • Participate in continuous improvement projects related to equipment efficiency, yield, and reliability
  • Provide hands-on support to production and maintenance teams during daily operations
  • Assist in developing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions
  • Participate in equipment and safety training sessions to gain technical proficiency
  • Support communication with equipment vendors for troubleshooting, spare parts, and technical follow-ups
  • Work cross-functionally with process engineering, quality, production, and EHS teams to support manufacturing goals
  • Follow company safety policies and EHS requirements at all times
  • Support compliance with applicable quality and regulatory standards (e.g., ISO9001, IATF16949)
  • Participate in safety inspections, risk assessments, and improvement initiatives as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field
  • 0-2 years of engineering experience (internships, co-ops, or project-based experience acceptable)
  • Basic understanding of industrial equipment, automation, or manufacturing systems
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, manuals, and equipment documentation
  • Willingness to work in a manufacturing / factory environmeny

Preferred Qualifications
  • Internship or project experience with automated production equipment
  • Basic exposure to PLCs, HMIs, sensors, motors, or servo systems
  • Familiarity with CAD software for reviewing equipment layouts or designs
  • Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement principles
  • Mandarin language skills are a plus, but not required

Core Competencies
  • Technical Learning & Aptitude: Strong desire to build hands-on equipment and automation expertise
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze equipment issues and follow structured troubleshooting approaches
  • Team Collaboration: Works effectively with engineers, technicians, operators, and vendors
  • Attention to Detail: Accurate documentation and adherence to procedures
  • Safety Awareness: Proactive approach to safe equipment operation and compliance
  • Adaptability: Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving manufacturing environment

Travel & Work Environment
  • Occasional domestic or international travel may be required for training or vendor support
  • Ability to support off-shift activities may be required during equipment installation or ramp-up phases

Gotion Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve, cultivating a culture of inclusion and belonging, and ensuring equal employment opportunities for all.
We provide equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related conditions (including breastfeeding), parental status, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other characteristic protected by law.
At Gotion Inc., we strive to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive.

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