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Fluid Power Engineering Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Working knowledge of basic fluid power (hydraulic and pneumatic) systems * Working knowledge of basic PLC operation and programming. * Working knowledge of programming electrical speed control ...

Maintenance Technician

Skokie, IL · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Communicate, discuss, and/or review repair problems with Engineering, the Tool Room, Production ... Must have some knowledge of mechanical troubleshooting including power transmission, fluid power ...

Fluid Mechanics Tutor

Dekalb, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson ... Emphasizes connecting mathematical analysis to physical fluid behavior and engineering design ...

Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson ... Emphasizes connecting mathematical analysis to physical fluid behavior and engineering design ...

Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson ... Emphasizes connecting mathematical analysis to physical fluid behavior and engineering design ...

Fluid Mechanics Tutor

Normal, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson ... Emphasizes connecting mathematical analysis to physical fluid behavior and engineering design ...

Fluid Mechanics Tutor

Evanston, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson ... Emphasizes connecting mathematical analysis to physical fluid behavior and engineering design ...

Our AI-powered Tutor Copilot enhances your sessions with real-time instructional support, lesson ... Emphasizes connecting mathematical analysis to physical fluid behavior and engineering design ...

Showing results 21-40

Fluid Power Engineering information

See Illinois salary details

$45.1K

$142.3K

$168.6K

How much do fluid power engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for fluid power engineering in Illinois is $142,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,900.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is fluid power engineering?

Fluid power engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the use, design, and maintenance of systems that transmit and control power through fluids under pressure, such as hydraulics (liquids) and pneumatics (gases). Fluid power engineers design components and systems like pumps, valves, actuators, and circuits used in machinery, vehicles, and industrial equipment. These systems are widely used in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and aerospace due to their efficiency and reliability in controlling force and motion. Fluid power engineers also work on improving the efficiency, safety, and environmental impact of these systems.

What are some typical challenges faced by fluid power engineers in project development, and how can they be addressed?

Fluid power engineers often encounter challenges such as system leakage, efficiency losses, and component compatibility during project development. Addressing these issues requires thorough system analysis, careful selection of compatible hydraulic or pneumatic components, and rigorous testing during the design phase. Collaborating closely with manufacturers, maintenance teams, and control engineers can help identify and resolve potential problems early, ensuring reliable and cost-effective solutions. Continuous learning about new technologies and industry standards also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fluid power engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fluid Power Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or hydraulic engineering, fluid mechanics, and system design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, hydraulic simulation tools, and industry certifications like those from the International Fluid Power Society (IFPS) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex system requirements. These skills are vital for designing efficient, safe, and reliable fluid power systems used in various industrial applications.

What is the difference between Fluid Power Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectFluid Power EngineeringMechanical Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical or Fluid Power Engineering, certifications like NFPA or FPEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, hydraulic and pneumatic system design labsFactories, design offices, research labs
Industry UsageHydraulic systems, pneumatic controls, fluid power systemsBroader mechanical systems, thermodynamics, structural design

Fluid Power Engineering focuses specifically on hydraulic and pneumatic systems, requiring specialized knowledge in fluid dynamics and control systems. Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems, including thermodynamics, materials, and structural analysis. While both fields share foundational engineering principles, Fluid Power Engineers specialize in designing and maintaining fluid-based systems used in various industries.

What job categories do people searching Fluid Power Engineering jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Fluid Power Engineering jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Fluid Power Engineering job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,319 per year, or $68.4 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer 1 (Entry-Level) - Nuclear (Summer 2027)

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 452 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This position has a target start date of Summer 2027.

  • This position will offer you the ability to directly apply your knowledge of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and power plant engineering
  • You will be preparing calculations, specifications, and technical reports to support client recommendations and reviews, and will additionally conduct equipment sizing, optimization evaluation, and selection in response to project needs
  • While supporting project teams with other Mechanical Engineers, you will be involved in system engineering, including the design, modification, and analysis of power plant mechanical systems
  • There is the potential for you to travel to client and vendor offices for design reviews and to plant site locations for construction coordination and field verification of designs
Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • This position requires a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or Chemical Engineering with a strong academic background and interest in thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, power engineering, turbomachinery, thermal systems, and energy conversion
  • Knowledge of the practical application of mechanical engineering and technology including applying systems, principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to a project design
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in the production of technical plans, fabrication drawings, and models
  • Strong interest in numerical computations and problem solving
  • Proficiency with MS Office applications
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Valued but not required skills and experience:

  • A BS or MS degree from an ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission-approved program
  • Related engineering internship or co-op work experience
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and designation as an Engineer in Training
  • Experience in writing and providing support documentation for Mechanical Engineering calculations
  • Coursework in the following:
    • Power engineering
    • Turbomachinery
    • Thermal systems
    • Energy conversion
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 - $90,586Transparency StatementSargent & 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.About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!

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.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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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

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