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Entry Level Control Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Apolis

Java Developer (Healthcare Claim)

Chicago, IL

$52.50 - $68/hr

Java Level Required for Primary Skill: Entry Level (0-2 years experience) Additional Details for ... Familiarity with modern IDEs and version control. * Good communication skills and willingness to ...

Quanta Services

Drafter - Substation

Chicago, IL

$50K - $72K/yr

The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of ... No experience required for an entry level position in the electric utility industry. More ...

The LaSalle Group

Front End Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

The ideal candidate is a hands-on engineer who enjoys working across the stack and thrives in a ... Experience using version control systems (Git) * Strong problem-solving and communication skills ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsEntry Level Control Engineer JobsEntry Level Control Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Entry Level Control Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$14K

$48.7K

$110.6K

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

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level control engineer in Illinois is $48,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,446.00 and $65,810.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level control engineer do?

An entry level control engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, development, and implementation of control systems used in manufacturing, industrial processes, or automation. Their tasks often include programming controllers, troubleshooting equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and collaborating with senior engineers on projects. They typically work with PLCs (programmable logic controllers) and other automation hardware to optimize processes and ensure systems operate safely and efficiently.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level control engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Entry level control engineers often encounter challenges such as communicating effectively with colleagues from different engineering backgrounds (mechanical, electrical, software) and translating control requirements into actionable tasks. Additionally, understanding system integration and troubleshooting unexpected behaviors in complex automated processes can be demanding. Proactively asking questions, actively participating in meetings, and seeking mentorship within the team are key strategies for overcoming these hurdles and accelerating professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Control Engineer, you need a solid understanding of control systems, automation principles, and a degree in electrical, mechanical, or a related engineering discipline. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and simulation software like MATLAB or LabVIEW is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel when collaborating with teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure the successful design, implementation, and maintenance of automated processes that meet safety and efficiency standards.

What is the difference between Entry Level Control Engineer vs Control Systems Technician?

AspectEntry Level Control EngineerControl Systems Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control EngineeringAssociate's degree or technical certification in control systems or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of control systems; office and lab settingsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of control systems on-site
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, energy sectorsIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation companies
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Control EngineerControl Systems Technician

While both roles involve working with control systems, Entry Level Control Engineers focus on designing and developing control solutions, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Control Systems Technicians typically handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting, often with technical certifications. The roles complement each other within industrial and manufacturing environments, with engineers focusing on planning and technicians on execution and support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Control Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Control Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Control Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Control Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Control Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,683 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Distribution Engineer 1 (Entry Level) - Grid

Distribution Engineer 1 (Entry Level) - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description
Under the direction of a project lead, this position will offer you the opportunity to work in a project team environment with other engineers and designers using your knowledge of engineering and design practices to:
  • Prepare construction sketches and details for:
    • Overhead and underground network services (4 KV through 34 KV)
    • Structural analyses
    • Short circuit and voltage drop calculations
    • Bill of Material
    • Cost Estimates
    • Traffic control plans and/or permit drawings
  • Analyze and design priority feeds.
  • Support maintenance and recapitalization of distribution components.
  • Plan modifications to the system as well as designing complex tasks.
  • Develop work packages and provide as-builts at completion of construction.

This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, with the expectation of spending three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
Dependent upon your location, this opportunity offers a generous relocation package.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
  • A BS or MS degree from an engineering program.
  • One or more years of experience with electric utility distribution or relevant experience.
  • Knowledgeable in physical distribution design methods and their application.
  • Knowledgeable in applicable codes, standards, and distribution software programs including AutoCAD, ArcGIS, PoleForeman, etc.
  • Familiarity with design codes and standards such as NESC, NEC, ANSI, IEEE, GIS/GWD.
  • Experience with complex overhead and underground distribution projects (120/208V through 34 kV).
  • Strong communication skills.

Valued but not required skills and experience:
  • A degree from an ABET-accredited engineering program.
  • Familiarity with various distribution design/analysis software.
  • Familiarity with GIS software.
  • Experience in utility distribution inspections and/or construction.

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.
Awards & Recognition
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.
Sargent & Lundy logo

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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