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Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Report to the Engineering Manager to support the achievement of plant goals and objectives ... instrumentation technicians. * Update control system drawings and documentation, ensuring hard ...

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

Hammond, IN · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

... instrumentation technicians.* Update control system drawings and documentation, ensuring hard ... the controls & automation field* Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field.* Working ...

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

... instrumentation technicians. * Update control system drawings and documentation, ensuring hard ... controls & automation field * Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field. * Working ...

Controls Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

... instrumentation technicians. * Update control system drawings and documentation, ensuring hard ... controls & automation field * Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field. * Working ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Instrumentation Controls Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$29

$56

$84

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

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation & controls engineer in Chicago, IL is $56.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43.85 and $63.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation & Controls Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $116,845 per year, or $56.2 per hour.

Maintenance Technician, Instrumentation & Controls - 1st Shift

Glanbia

Aurora, IL • On-site

$35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Glanbia Performance Nutrition rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 443 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Instrumentation & Controls Technician

Location: Aurora, IL

Company: Glanbia Performance Nutrition

About Glanbia

Glanbia is a global nutrition company dedicated to providing better nutrition for every step of life's journey. Using pure and clean ingredients such as milk, whey, and grains, Glanbia creates highquality nutritional ingredients and branded consumer products for customers and consumers worldwide.

Glanbia Performance Nutrition (GPN), headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Glanbia. Our brand portfolio includes Optimum Nutrition, BSN, Isopure, Think!, Nutramino, Body & Fit, LevlUp, Amazing Grass, and SlimFast. We manufacture and market a full range of performance and lifestyle nutrition products sold across retail, online, gyms, and global markets.

GPN operates state-of-the-art facilities with more than 2,500 employees worldwide and is part of Glanbia plc, a global nutrition group with over 6,000 employees in 34 countries.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation for roles at Glanbia varies depending on a wide range of factors including but not limited to the specific office location, role, skill set and level of experience. Glanbia provides a reasonable range of compensation for roles that may be hired in Illinois. This range may not be applicable to other locations. The hourly rate for Illinois based employees for this role is starting at $35.00/hour plus shift differential, if applicable.

Sign-On Bonus: $5,000

Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, FSA, HSA, Life & Disability Insurance, 19 Days Paid Time Off and 6% 401K match.

Schedule

Monday through Friday schedule - with Overtime opportunities.
1st Shift: 9:00am-5:30pm (with flexibility to work into the start of 2nd and 3rd shifts)

General Summary

The Maintenance Technician, Instrumentation & Controls performs the preventive and reactive maintenance duties required for the manufacturing operations of the plant. Priorities of the role include the execution of PM schedules and repair of any components used to control and monitor manufacturing and utility equipment that is needed to maintain maximum production rates and maintenance of an adequate spare parts inventory. The individual must have a solid background in controls in addition to strong troubleshooting skills. This position requires the flexibility to work 40+ hours per week, weekends as required and fulfill on-call duties for repairs and assistance.

Essential Functions

  • Troubleshoot and repair equipment issues as they arise on the plant floor.
  • Assist and consult with Management/Engineering on projects as needed.
  • Install and configure electrical and/or controls equipment for retrofit or upgrade projects.
  • Contact OEM for troubleshooting assistance/guidance.
  • Lead instrumentation and controls preventative maintenance programs.
  • Effectively contribute to CMMS performance through timely PM & Repair Work Order completion while ensuring compliance to safety and quality requirements.
  • Partner with operations and engineering to improve equipment reliability.
  • Effectively communicate all process and/or equipment changes to affected personnel.
  • Provide basic electrical troubleshooting skills training for all maintenance techs and lead the Instrumentation & Controls trainee program.
  • Maintain and develop job skills through internal and external training programs.
  • Stay current on field-related technology, codes, standards, and best practices.
  • Support and participate in process improvement teams and own maintenance-related Go-See-Think-Do's.
  • Work with production staff to ensure the safe and reliable operation of plant equipment.
  • Self-train and operate production equipment.
  • Adhere to safe work practices, follow GMP's, maintain sanitary conditions and ensure product quality is maintained.
  • Wear all PPE as required within the Plant safety policy.
  • Assist in implementation of new processes and data collection.
  • Implement safety improvement projects.
  • Own the equipment in their area and be a mentor to others.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • PLC program troubleshooting experience required
  • Rockwell/Allen-Bradley platforms highly preferred
  • Proficient using electrical test equipment (voltmeter, ammeter, ohm meter, Megger, etc.)
  • Advanced understanding of basic machine function and sequence of operations
  • Experience with process instrumentation (level, flow, temperature)
  • Experience with VFDs, Servos, MCCs, and other motor control platforms
  • Experience with Ethernet networking and communication protocols such as EtherNet/IP and DeviceNet
  • Experience in mechanical systems/pneumatics a plus
  • Ability to interpret electrical schematics and user manuals
  • Advanced knowledge of NEC
  • Advanced knowledge of UL508A and NFPA 79 codes preferred
  • Lock Out Tag Out safety procedures
  • Arc Flash and PPE requirements
  • Strong time management and task prioritization skills
  • Demonstrated knowledge of electrical formulas
  • Knowledge of 3-phase industrial wiring and power distribution
  • AC & DC drive/motor PMs, wiring, parameter setup, and troubleshooting
  • Troubleshoot PLC I/O and networking
  • Motion training with servo drives and motors
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with and communicate effectively with plant personnel, company resources, vendors, and diverse teams
  • Strong skills using Microsoft Office, Excel, and Word
  • Proficient using CMMS such as SAP
  • Demonstrated knowledge/skill in Root Cause Analysis, problem identification, and troubleshooting
  • Excellent safety record, attendance, and punctuality

Decision Making / Problem Solving

  • Escalate issues to Engineering as appropriate
  • Implement CMMS improvements (PM tasks, frequencies, on-hand inventory, etc.) in alignment with industry best practices
  • Participate in RCA and Go-See-Think-Do's for equipment-related issues

Required Qualifications

Associates Degree in Electronics, Electrical Engineering Technology, or equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience.

3-5 years experience in Controls and Automation within a manufacturing environment (food processing experience a plus).

At Glanbia, we celebrate diversity, because we know that our individual strengths make us stronger together. We welcome and encourage interest from a wide variety of candidates, and we will give your application consideration, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or disability status. 

At Glanbia our culture will celebrate individuality, knowing that together we are more.


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