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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Illinois

2ND SHIFT CONTROLS ENGINEER - CHICAGO, ILLINOIS A Leading Automotive Supplier in Chicago, Illinois ... Maintain PLC based control systems for manufacturing automation and instrumentation. Guide designs ...

CONTROLS ENGINEER I

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

This position is an entry-level position for implementing and maintaining automated industrial controls systems. The position requires an understanding of programmable logic controllers (PLC), human ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... seeking a Controls Engineer, who will provide electrical and controls support for Production ... Knowledge of process instrumentation, experience with P&IDs and process automation. * Experience ...

Electrical Controls Engineer

Wheeling, IL ยท On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... seeking a Controls Engineer, who will provide electrical and controls support for Production ... Knowledge of process instrumentation, experience with P&IDs and process automation. * Experience ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Joliet, IL ยท On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

... Controls Engineer. As a member of our team, you will help support and transform the chemical ... Support capital projects with electrical, instrumentation, and control system needs. Minimum ...

... Controls Engineer. As a member of our team, you will help support and transform the chemical ... Support capital projects with electrical, instrumentation, and control system needs. Minimum ...

Controls Systems Engineer LOCATION: Bedford Park, IL (Argo Plant) REPORTS TO: Manager, Control ... Ensure the instrumentation, control systems, and documentation are capable of supporting the ...

Controls Systems Engineer LOCATION:Bedford Park, IL (Argo Plant)REPORTS TO:Manager, Control System ... Ensure the instrumentation, control systems, and documentation are capable of supporting the ...

Brindley Engineering's talented team consists of Structural Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Process Engineers, Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Project Managers ...

Brindley Engineering's talented team consists of Structural Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Process Engineers, Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Project Managers ...

Brindley Engineering's talented team consists of Structural Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Process Engineers, Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Project Managers ...

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Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$27

$52

$79

How much do entry level instrumentation & controls engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation & controls engineer in Illinois is $52.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.25 and $60.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, you need a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control systems engineering and a solid understanding of process control fundamentals. Familiarity with PLC/DCS programming, SCADA systems, and industry-standard software like AutoCAD or MATLAB is typically required, and certifications such as EIT/FE can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in collaborative engineering environments. These competencies ensure accurate system design, smooth project execution, and effective troubleshooting in complex industrial settings.

What types of projects and tasks can an Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer, you can expect to assist with designing, configuring, and testing control systems for industrial processes, such as those found in power plants, manufacturing, or water treatment facilities. Your responsibilities may include creating wiring diagrams, selecting and specifying instrumentation, supporting field installations, and collaborating with senior engineers or project managers. You'll also likely help troubleshoot control system issues and participate in commissioning activities, providing valuable hands-on experience. This role offers a blend of office-based design work and on-site support, giving you exposure to both technical and practical aspects of engineering projects.

What does an Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer do?

An Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer assists with the design, installation, and maintenance of systems that measure and control industrial processes. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to develop control systems, select appropriate instruments, and ensure that equipment operates safely and efficiently. Typical responsibilities include preparing technical documentation, troubleshooting control systems, and supporting project execution. This role often serves as a starting point for engineers interested in automation, process control, or industrial systems.

What is the difference between Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer vs Entry Level Electrical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Instrumentation & Controls EngineerEntry Level Electrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like CAP or ISA are a plusBachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license optional for entry level
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation systemsPower plants, electronics manufacturing, construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageProcess industries, automation companies, oil & gas, manufacturingUtilities, electronics, consulting firms, construction
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineers focus on designing, installing, and maintaining control systems and instrumentation used in industrial processes, while Entry Level Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuitry. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications but serve different technical functions within the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,912 per year, or $52.8 per hour.
2nd Shift Controls Engineer

2nd Shift Controls Engineer

Venteon

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$130K/yr

Full-time, Other

PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Description
2ND SHIFT CONTROLS ENGINEER - CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
A Leading Automotive Supplier in Chicago, Illinois needs a 2nd Shift Controls Engineer. This is a Full Time, Permanent, Direct Hire Position offering Competitive Compensation, Bonus Potential, Good Benefits, Paid Holidays and Paid Vacation. No Travel Required. NO SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
This full-time, salary, role is a part of the Engineering Team and reports to the Engineering Manager.
Train, coach, and mentor, the electrical controls process, for manufacturing skilled trades and mentor colleagues.
Coordinate resources to find root cause and fixes, manage and breakdown problems into items that can be validated.
Maintain PLC based control systems for manufacturing automation and instrumentation.
Guide designs, develop and test electrical control methods, materials, processes, and results.
Lead projects and assist skilled trades in electrical disciplines.
Support operations in electrical/controls troubleshooting and continuous improvement activities.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's Degree in electrical, mechanical, controls or automation engineering. Master's Degree is a plus. Open for equivalent years of experience.
Electrical background (electrician or technician) preferred.
Experienced with Vision System
Working knowledge of PLC/CNC (Siemens/Allen-Bradley), ABB and FANUC Robots.
Lean Manufacturing experience
Excellent "hands on" electrical/mechanical aptitude
Experience working with electrical/controls circuitry and schematics.
Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills
Ability to read and write in English and to perform mathematical calculations
NO SPONSORSHIP AVAILABLE
TO APPLY:
If you are a high performer and would like to work for an equally high performing company and you think the above opportunity is appropriate for you, we invite you to submit your resume in Microsoft Word format to: GHubbard@Venteon.com
We treat all resumes with strict confidentiality. We will always contact you first before submitting your resume to our client(s) for review. If you do not receive correspondence, you are not a fit for this position.
At Venteon our talent acquisition team is proud to provide our clients with the most qualified Accounting & Finance, Engineering, IT and Administrative talent in the industry today.