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Freelance Control Systems Engineer Jobs in Elmhurst, IL

Systems Engineer

Bartlett, IL ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

WITTENSTEIN motion control Inc.Location: US - Bartlett, ILCountry: USCategory: Research & DevelopmentContract duration: UnlimitedEmployment Type: Full timeResponsibilitiesThe systems engineer will ...

Systems Engineer - Sentinel

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$100 - $125/hr

... Control Systems, Launch Facilities, and associated infrastructure. This position's standard work ... WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT TO DO As a System Engineer (SE) you will be assigned to an Agile Scrum Team ...

Systems Engineer II - Foundation

Skokie, IL ยท Hybrid

$41.64 - $64.54/hr

Position: Systems Engineer II - Foundation * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time * Hours: Monday ... Leads and works on technology initiatives within their span of control and portfolio with minimal ...

New

Systems Engineer II - Citrix

Skokie, IL ยท Hybrid

$41.64 - $64.54/hr

Position: Systems Engineer II - Citrix * Location: Skokie, IL or Arlington Heights, IL or ... Leads and works on technology initiatives within their span of control and portfolio with minimal ...

Systems Engineer II - Foundation

Skokie, IL ยท Hybrid

$41.64 - $64.54/hr

Position: Systems Engineer II - Foundation * Location: Skokie, IL * Full Time * Hours: Monday ... Leads and works on technology initiatives within their span of control and portfolio with minimal ...

Systems Engineer II - Citrix

Skokie, IL ยท On-site

$41.64 - $64.54/hr

Position: Systems Engineer II - Citrix * Location: Skokie, IL or Arlington Heights, IL or ... Leads and works on technology initiatives within their span of control and portfolio with minimal ...

Systems Engineer II - Citrix

Skokie, IL ยท Hybrid

$41.64 - $64.54/hr

Position: Systems Engineer II - Citrix * Location: Skokie, IL or Arlington Heights, IL or ... Leads and works on technology initiatives within their span of control and portfolio with minimal ...

Systems Engineer

Oak Brook, IL ยท On-site

$108K - $144K/yr

The Systems Engineer at CNH Industrial America LLC in Oak Brook, IL will collaborate with the ... control, steering solution, digital service and telematic, and fully autonomous driverless ...

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Control Systems Engineer information

See Elmhurst, IL salary details

$60.8K

$108.3K

$174.8K

How much do freelance control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance control systems engineer in Elmhurst, IL is $108,338.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,700.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance control systems engineer?

A Freelance Control Systems Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery or processes, typically working on a contract or project basis rather than as a permanent employee. These engineers often work with automation systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or transportation. Their responsibilities include programming controllers, troubleshooting control systems, and ensuring optimal system performance. As freelancers, they enjoy flexibility in choosing projects and clients, but they also manage their own business operations, such as client communication and billing.

How does a freelance control systems engineer typically collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams during a project?

As a Freelance Control Systems Engineer, you often work closely with clients to define project specifications, provide technical consultation, and ensure deliverables align with their operational needs. Collaboration frequently involves remote meetings, regular progress reports, and integration with other engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, and software teams. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as you may need to adapt to different workflows and project management tools set by various clients. Building strong client relationships and demonstrating reliability can lead to repeat business and referrals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance control systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Control Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or automation engineering, proficiency in system design, and experience with PLCs and SCADA systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider Electric platforms, and certifications like ISA CAP or TUV Functional Safety are typically valuable. Strong problem-solving, self-management, and communication skills help in managing projects independently and collaborating with diverse clients. These skills are crucial for delivering reliable automation solutions, meeting client expectations, and maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic freelance market.

What is the difference between Freelance Control Systems Engineer vs Control Systems Technician?

AspectFreelance Control Systems EngineerControl Systems Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonTechnical diploma or associate degree; specialized training in control systems
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often remote or on-site at client facilitiesOn-site at industrial plants or manufacturing facilities
Employer & IndustryIndependent contractors serving multiple clients across industriesEmployers in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance control system design, integration, or consultingSeeking maintenance, troubleshooting, or installation of control systems

The main difference is that Freelance Control Systems Engineers focus on designing and integrating control systems independently, often working on a project basis, while Control Systems Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting within industrial settings. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What job categories do people searching Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs in Elmhurst, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs in Elmhurst, IL are:

What cities near Elmhurst, IL are hiring for Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Elmhurst, IL with the most Freelance Control Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Control Systems Engineer job openings in Elmhurst, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,338 per year, or $52.1 per hour.

Systems Engineer

Wittenstein SE

Bartlett, IL โ€ข On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company: WITTENSTEIN motion control Inc.Location: US - Bartlett, ILCountry: USCategory: Research & DevelopmentContract duration: UnlimitedEmployment Type: Full timeResponsibilitiesThe systems engineer will join the technical team within the WITTENSTEIN Motion Control (WMC) Inc. division, which specializes in the design and manufacturing of high-fidelity control loading systems, military ground vehicle power generation, turret and radar actuation, and other related products for the defense industry.This position requires deep knowledge of DC motor control, AC/DC conversion, inverter functionality, force feedback loops, SPI/SSI signal integration, PID tuning, PCB layout and fabrication, CAN Bus, EtherCAT and ethernet communication, and Simulink and Matlab. Experience in control loading technology, embedded software applications, flight simulation, real time operating systems, and device drivers is also preferred.Because this position will be part of a small engineering team, the systems engineer will have to take on additional responsibilities relating to project management such as proposal creation, technical writing, customer management, presentation support, and troubleshooting. Execution to project schedule and budget will be paramount.The systems engineer will be responsible for improving department knowledge and capabilities by learning from other senior members within the division/company; as well as from subject matter experts from 3rd party partners in the industry. The systems engineer will also have to interact with a multi-disciplined team to ensure successful coordination of design and performance requirements.After an initiation period a hybrid remote work schedule will be possible at the WMC Inc. facility in Bartlett, IL.This position is not responsible for any direct reports.Control Loading Tasks:Maintenance and support of motor control simulation softwareAssisting in integrating motor control, CAN Bus, EtherCAT, and Ethernet communication loops with customer softwareTuning of control loading systems to customer requirementsTroubleshooting issues on-site at the customer or remotely from the WMC Inc. facilityOptimizing systems and identifying potential improvementsAssisting in proposal writingPCB layout design, optimization, and testingProducing system architecture documentation such as block diagrams, schematics, pin outs, and ICDsSupporting trade showsDefense application tasks:Writing technical documents and SDRLsAssisting in proposal writingFielding customer questions relating to software, controls, ethernet or CAN Bus protocols, and electrical performanceCompliance assuranceEMI/EMC test supportImproving and/or implementing in-house electrical testing capabilitiesLearning from internal and external SMEs involved in motor controls and/or power generationSupporting trade showsEnsuring export compliance (EAR, ITAR, TAAs, etc.)Collaborating with other SMEs across various disciplines both in the US and abroadDesign and execute system integration, verification and validation (V&V) plans, and test proceduresQualificationsAbility to manage both technical and commercial concerns.Ability to read, analyze and interpret specifications and technical documents.Ability to write procedures, reports, manuals, and other technical documents.Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, co-workers, clients, and customers.Ability to understand contracts, specifications, and SoW.Ability to overcome obstacles to successful project execution.Ability to prioritize tasks, work autonomously, and be a self-starter.Proven track record of on-time performance in development projects.Experience in a highly regulated industry such as defense or aerospace.Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.) in Electrical Engineering or Software EngineeringAt least three (3) years relevant experience requiredSeeks out informationUnderstands customer perspectiveEffectively communicates with othersEffectively organizes and manages work prioritiesSeeks multiple solutionsFinds new solutions to issuesSupports continuous improvementTakes ownership for actions/resultsWorking as the systems engineer, you must be able to interact with all other departments to ensure project success. You will work closely with the engineering manager and project management team, and given the small group size, may have to make key decisions without additional support.Travel up to 25% will be required, some of which will be international.Benefits:Great Place To Work CertifiedCompetitive Base SalaryIncentive Plan up to 5% annuallyProfit Sharing up to 5% annuallyExcellent Health BenefitsMonthly medical premiums at 50% to 75% below market.Annual deductible & copays below market.Higher percentage if medical coverage than market.No monthly premiums for dental & vision.Matching 401(k) ContributionWellness Reimbursement (50% up t $500/year)Climate controlled production environmentWellness Rewards Redeemed for Gift CardsShort-Term Disability Insurance & Long-Term Disability InsuranceAccidental Death & Dismemberment InsuranceLife InsuranceFlexible Spending Accounts (Medical and Dependent Care)Tuition ReimbursementAbout WITTENSTEINCommitted to being a world-class partner of intelligent mechatronic drive technology, servo systems, and mechanical components. WITTENSTEIN uses the power of science, innovation, and forward-thinking engineering to provide you cutting-edge technology for motion. Since pioneering the alpha servo planetary gear reducer in 1983, support and motion requirements from the market have continued to change and WITTENSTEIN is well positioned to deliver reliable products and services to its customers and partners.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, or other status protected by applicable law. WITTENSTEIN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer: Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran.#wittensteinInterested?Please apply online rather than on paper or by email. These FAQยดs provide answers to the most frequently asked questions.Do you have any questions?Contact us to learn more about your opportunities and take the next step towards your future!Mr. Kurtis Mraz[email protected] #J-18808-Ljbffr