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Entry Level Automation Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cadence Design Systems, Inc.

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

... electronic design automation (EDA) tools to join our Customer Support Team's (CST) Rotational ... This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ...

Cadence Design Systems Inc.

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

... electronic design automation (EDA) tools to join our Customer Support Team's (CST) Rotational ... This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ...

Cadence

Application Engineer

Cary, IL · On-site

$74K - $137K/yr

... electronic design automation (EDA) tools to join our Customer Support Team's (CST) Rotational ... This is an entry level rotational position for STEM bachelor level graduates who have limited ...

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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 Aug 8, 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 skills and qualifications are needed to be an entry level automation engineer?

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?

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 does an entry level automation engineer do?

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $110,356 per year, or $53.1 per hour.

Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 443 rated engineering

Job description

Description
Nuclear power is a carbon-free energy source. We offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your academic background in engineering by digitizing nuclear power plants:
  • You will work on a multi-discipline engineering team involved in nuclear power plant instrumentation and controls projects. These projects are a synergistic integration of electrical, computer, and mechanical engineering along with control theory.
  • You will work with electronic process sensors, digital controllers, network topology, touchscreen displays, pumps, valves, heat exchangers, steam turbines and reactors.
  • You will prepare specifications for the procurement of instrumentation and control equipment as well as engineering calculations.
  • Through mentoring, classroom-style technical sessions, and on-the-job training, you will increase your knowledge and skills in your engineering discipline.
  • You will also have the opportunity to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for project coordination and field verification of designs.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree in engineering with a strong academic background and coursework in analog and digital control systems, systems engineering, mechatronics, or robotics
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications

Valued but not required:
  • A Bachelor's or Master's of Science from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
  • Prior, related internship or co-op experience
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training

AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy
In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:
  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$62,998 - $90,586
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
About This Business Unit
Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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