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Entry Level Project Controls Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Controls Engineer / Entry Level

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $94K/yr

Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience This role will require 40-50%+ travel ... Ability to multi-task and handle multiple concurrent projects * Passionate about problem solving ...

Just In Time Staffing LLC

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Entry Level Manufacturing Engineer

Elgin, IL · On-site

$65K - $82K/yr

Automation & Controls * Assist with troubleshooting and maintaining automated production equipment ... improvement projects and Lean Manufacturing initiatives. * Document procedures, equipment ...

The Georgetown University

Electrician

Campus, IL

... and design, capital projects, custodial, facility maintenance, grounds and landscaping ... Uses a variety of complicated motor controls such as hermetically sealed motors and pressure ...

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Entry Level Project Controls information

Is project control a good career?

Entry level project controls roles involve monitoring project schedules, budgets, and progress to ensure successful completion. The field offers opportunities for growth with skills in scheduling software, data analysis, and certifications like PMP or CCP. It is a stable career path in industries such as construction, engineering, and manufacturing.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level project controls professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level project controls professionals often encounter challenges such as mastering complex scheduling software, understanding project cost tracking, and adapting to rapidly changing project priorities. To overcome these, it's helpful to seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, proactively ask questions, and take advantage of training resources provided by the employer. Building strong communication skills is also key, as collaborating with project managers, engineers, and finance teams is a regular part of the role. Embracing a continuous learning mindset will help you adapt quickly and contribute effectively to project success.

What is the difference between Entry Level Project Controls vs Entry Level Cost Estimator?

AspectEntry Level Project ControlsEntry Level Cost Estimator
Required CredentialsAssociate's/Bachelor's in Construction Management, Engineering, or related fieldsAssociate's/Bachelor's in Finance, Accounting, or related fields
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, project offices, engineering firmsConstruction companies, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsagePlanning, scheduling, cost control, project monitoringCost analysis, budgeting, bid preparation, pricing

Entry Level Project Controls focuses on tracking project progress, scheduling, and cost management, while Entry Level Cost Estimator specializes in preparing cost estimates and budgets. Both roles require related educational backgrounds and are essential in construction and engineering projects, but they emphasize different aspects of project financials and planning.

What are entry level project controls?

Entry level project controls refer to junior roles focused on supporting the planning, monitoring, and reporting of projects, often in industries like construction, engineering, or IT. People in these positions assist with tasks such as tracking project schedules, costs, and resources, as well as preparing progress reports and identifying potential risks. They typically work under the supervision of senior project controllers or managers, helping to ensure projects stay on budget and on schedule. Entry level project controls positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to project management, offering valuable experience and exposure to project management processes.

How do you get a PM job with no experience?

Entry level project controls roles often require some knowledge of project management principles, scheduling software like Primavera or MS Project, and basic understanding of construction or engineering processes. Gaining relevant certifications such as CAPM or PMP, even at an entry level, and demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills can improve chances of securing a project management position without prior experience.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Project Controls professional, you need a basic understanding of project management principles, cost control, scheduling, and a relevant bachelor’s degree such as engineering or construction management. Familiarity with project management software like Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, and Excel, as well as foundational knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVM), is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with project teams and interpret project data. These competencies are essential for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to scope.

What is an entry level job in project management?

An entry level project controls position is a role suitable for individuals starting their careers in project management, focusing on supporting project planning, scheduling, cost tracking, and reporting. These roles often require basic knowledge of project management tools like MS Project or Primavera and may involve working under supervision to gain experience in managing project scope, timelines, and budgets.

How do I get into project controls?

To enter project controls, candidates typically need a background in engineering, construction, or related fields, along with strong skills in scheduling, cost management, and data analysis. Gaining experience with tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project and obtaining certifications such as PMI's Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) can improve job prospects. Entry-level roles often require a bachelor's degree and good organizational skills to support project planning and monitoring activities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Controls jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Project Controls jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Project Controls jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Project Controls jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Project Controls jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Project Controls jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Project Controls jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Project Controls job openings:
Entry Level Project Controls jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Project Controls job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.
Critical Facilities Project Engineer

Critical Facilities Project Engineer

ATS Automation

Grayslake, IL • On-site

$68K - $124K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

JOIN THE EXCITING WORLD OF BUILDING AUTOMATION AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT
Come build your career in the innovative and impactful industry of Building Automation and Energy Management. At ATS, we are committed to providing the best energy management and facilities solutions for our customers and leading the market in building technologies. Our talented team of systems integrators make a difference by engineering, installing, and maintaining building automation systems that are thoughtfully designed to reduce energy consumption, optimize building performance, and provide the best conditions for tenant occupants.
We work with facilities of all types, from world-class research labs and hospitals, to high-profile corporate campuses, to cutting edge data centers. In a world with increasing focus on how to address energy management challenges and build sustainable solutions for the future, our clients rely on us to lead the way. Each building is a puzzle and we are the experts at solving them.
Our work has a tangible, positive impact on the world around us and we are proud and excited to do it.
BECOME PART OF A COMPANY THAT VALUES YOU AS AN INDIVIDUAL
At ATS our most important asset is our people. Our employees are truly incredible and we are proud of their accomplishments. ATS team members are intelligent, hard-working, and take pride in every project and every customer interaction. We know they care about the valuable work they do and we care about making sure they have all the support they need to thrive and grow, including, but not limited to:
  • Fair and equitable pay that meets and exceeds market rates
  • Robust retirement savings with unbeatable 401(k) employer match and profit-sharing bonuses
  • Paid holidays and time off that increases with tenure
  • Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision options to meet your specific needs
  • Ongoing training and development both in-house and through educational assistance benefits
  • Employee wellness resources and annual events
  • Additional information about our benefits can be found at ATS Benefits 2024

BUILD YOUR CAREER WITH US
As a Project Engineer, you will become a key member of the Critical Facilities team and essential in ensuring the successful completion of complex projects. You will be responsible for designing and engineering building automation and energy management systems based on local energy code and sustainability initiatives, project plans, specifications, and other contract documents. You will also have the opportunity to:
  • Responsible for analyzing system performance at a complete systems and campus level, ensuring documentation is accurate and complete,
  • Provide analysis of building control and mechanical system performance at multiple levels.
  • Create project-specific programming solutions to optimize building efficiency and performance.
  • Build custom front ends for end-users to interface with your system.
  • Interface directly with customers, subcontractors, suppliers, and other members of the project team.
  • Programming of complex DDC (Direct Digital Controls) and PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) systems to meet project specifications and mechanical systems requirements
  • Develop your knowledge of project financials tracking through monthly audits and end of project reviews.
  • Provide feedback on company-wide standards and participate in continuous improvement initiatives.

For more information on the duties and responsibilities for this role, please contact us
SOME QUALITIES WE'RE LOOKING FOR
  • A positive and proactive approach to addressing challenges
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • A sense of ownership and pride in your work
  • A commitment to lifelong learning and curiosity
  • Enjoyment in working both in teams and on personal projects
  • An agile approach to everyday projects and tasks

BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCES THAT WILL SET YOU UP FOR SUCCESS
  • Degree in Engineering - Mechanical and Electrical Engineering are most common, but other disciplines are welcomed, too
  • Exposure to electronics and basic electrical circuits
  • Experience with basic programming concepts
  • Practice working with mechanical systems
  • Knowledge of DDC (direct digital control) theory and applications

JOB DETAILS YOU SHOULD KNOW
  • Base salary for this position ranges from $68,000 - $124,000 and is based on experience and tenure
  • This is a full time, exempt position. Typical work days are Monday-Friday
  • Local travel is required up to 50-percent of the time and mileage is reimbursable
  • This position requires a combination of working in an office environment and routine visits to project jobsites up to 50% of working hours. Project jobsites present typical construction and outdoor conditions that require the use of personal protective equipment for safety purposes. Must be comfortable climbing a ladder. Small repetitive motions and use of small tools is included.

ATS is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to complying with all federal, state, and local laws providing equal employment opportunities. When making hiring and employment decisions, we do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, age, military service, military or veteran status, physical or mental disability, medical condition as defined under state and federal law, or any other legally protected category. All such discrimination is strictly prohibited.
The above job description may not cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

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