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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Baxter & Woodman

Automation Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $105K/yr

Automation Design Engineer Location: Chicago, Crystal Lake, or Naperville, IL Why you should join ... Prepares project specifications as they pertain to instrumentation and process controls. * Prepares ...

Baxter & Woodman

Automation Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site +1

$80K - $105K/yr

Automation Design Engineer Location: Chicago, Crystal Lake, or Naperville, IL Why you should join ... Prepares project specifications as they pertain to instrumentation and process controls. * Prepares ...

Rain Industries Limited

I&E Specialist

Robinson, IL · On-site

Understanding PLC and HMI programming is a plus. • Performs instrumentation troubleshooting ... controls, and all AC-DC control equipment. • Troubleshoots, diagnoses and repairs all ...

RAINCARBON

I&E Specialist

Robinson, IL · On-site

Understanding PLC and HMI programming is a plus. Performs instrumentation troubleshooting ... hydraulic controls, and all AC-DC control equipment. Troubleshoots, diagnoses and repairs all ...

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All JobsEntry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer JobsEntry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Illinois

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:
Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer jobs near you
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.
Controls Technician

Controls Technician

Kelly Services

Chicago Heights, IL

$40 - $46/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 21 hours ago

Job description

Controls Technician – Chicago Heights, IL
Pay: $40 - $46/hr
Shift: 1st Shift | Monday – Friday | 8a-5p (flexible)
We’re looking for a skilled Controls Technician to support, maintain, and improve all plant electrical and control systems—including electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, mechanical, and network subsystems. In this role, you’ll act as a technical subject-matter expert, providing troubleshooting support, leading root-cause analysis, training maintenance techs across all shifts, and ensuring smooth operation of all production and facility systems.
You’ll work closely with the Maintenance Supervisor, Planner, and Manager to keep production on track, equipment running safely, and documentation up to date.
What You’ll Do
Core Responsibilities
  • Inspect, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain food processing and packaging equipment.
  • Perform corrective, preventive, and scheduled maintenance on a wide variety of automated equipment.
  • Diagnose and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and control-system issues.
  • Install, program, and troubleshoot PLCs, HMIs, servo drives, VFDs, and related systems.
  • Support and coordinate mechanical technicians during breakdowns and major repairs.
  • Maintain accurate documentation on all controls systems—including hardware, software, and changes.
  • Work safely using proper PPE and adhere to all HACCP, Allergen, Food Defense, and GMP policies.
  • Perform inspections and repairs while equipment is operating on a live production schedule.
  • Lead troubleshooting efforts during downtime and expedite equipment recovery.
  • Maintain secondary plant systems (steam, chilled water, pneumatics, HVAC, electrical distribution, refrigeration, etc.).
  • Write and update job procedures and frequencies within the CMMS (SAP).
  • Train technicians on PLC/VFD/HMI troubleshooting using laptops and plant software tools.
  • Occasionally travel for training, equipment work, or parts procurement.
  • Keep the work area clean and report any potential contamination or unsafe conditions immediately.

Key Technical Skills
  • Skilled electrical troubleshooting (120V–480V).
  • Strong understanding of PLC programming (RSLogix, FactoryTalk View, ladder logic).
  • Experience with servo systems, VFDs, motor controls, HMIs, pneumatics, and hydraulics.
  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, electrical single-line diagrams, loop drawings, termination diagrams, and mechanical layouts.
  • Experience maintaining batching or continuous process systems and their networks.
  • Ability to perform mechanical, plumbing, and instrumentation work at a semi-skilled level.

Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a Controls Technician, Automation Technician, or similar role in manufacturing (food industry experience preferred).
  • Strong troubleshooting aptitude—electrical, mechanical, and automation.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment under pressure.
  • Excellent communication skills and teamwork mindset.
  • Regular, predictable attendance.
  • CMMS experience (SAP preferred):
  • Create work order notifications
  • Enter labor time
  • Provide feedback for procedure updates
  • Write job-specific procedures and task frequencies

Apply now for immediate consideration for this Controls Tech position in Chicago Heights, IL. We Look forward to connecting with you!
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

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About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.

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