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Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Electrical Engineer

Oak Brook, IL ยท On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Electrical Engineer Location: Oak Brook, IL Work Schedule: Hybrid - 4 Days Onsite / 1 Day Remote ... Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and project stakeholders. * Ensure designs ...

Electrical Engineer

Palatine, IL ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/hr

Electrical Engineer Client: Architecture and Engineering Firm Duration: Full-Time (Permanent ... Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and consultants * Participate in coordination ...

Electrical Engineer

Portage, IN ยท On-site

$40 - $45/hr

The Electrical Engineer is responsible for supporting the design, modification, and implementation ... The position also involves coordinating with engineers, vendors, contractors, and other design ...

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Showing results 1-20

Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52K

$114.4K

$173.1K

How much do independent contractor electrical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor electrical engineer in Chicago, IL is $114,440.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an independent contractor electrical engineer do?

An Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer is a self-employed professional who provides electrical engineering services to clients on a contract basis. They design, develop, and test electrical systems for various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and technology. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors typically work on short-term or project-based assignments, handling tasks such as circuit design, system integration, troubleshooting, and compliance testing. They must manage their own business operations, including invoicing, taxes, and client relationships. This role offers flexibility but requires strong technical expertise and business skills to succeed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor electrical engineer?

Independent Contractor Electrical Engineers need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, project management, and often a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard design software like AutoCAD and MATLAB, as well as familiarity with relevant codes and optional certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is highly valued. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help these professionals effectively coordinate with clients and deliver projects independently. Mastering these competencies ensures successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and compliance with technical standards in a self-directed work environment.

Can independent contractor electrical engineers be self-employed?

Yes, independent contractor electrical engineers can be self-employed, working on a project basis or through their own business. They typically handle their own taxes, licensing, and client relationships, and may need relevant certifications such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Self-employment allows flexibility but requires managing business operations and compliance with industry standards.

How much do freelance electrical engineers make?

Freelance electrical engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, specialization, and project scope. Rates can vary from $30 to $150 per hour, with highly skilled engineers or those with niche expertise commanding higher fees. Successful freelancers often work on a project basis, requiring strong technical skills and client management abilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Electrical Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,440 per year, or $55 per hour.

$90K - $120K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Globetrotters Engineering is a full-service professional organization based in beautiful downtown Chicago, which was rated the โ€œBest Big Cityโ€ by Conde Nast Traveler readers for an unprecedented eight years in a row.


We are proud to have served the public and private sectors since 1974, drawing upon highly qualified and experienced staff with diverse expertise to provide cost-effective, sustainable, and responsive services to our clients. Globetrotters is committed to planning, designing, constructing, and managing quality and sustainable infrastructure projects that play an integral role in the development and success of the communities we serve.


We are honored to have been designated Best & Brightest Company in 2024 and 2025 and selected as Best Companies to Work for in Engineering 2025. Only companies that demonstrate excellence in workplace culture and innovative business practices are bestowed this honor.


We are seeking an Electrical Engineer for immediate employment in our downtown Chicago office.


In this position, you will:

ยท      Design, develop, and implement electrical engineering solutions to address complex technical challenges across a variety of projects.

ยท      Prepare electrical engineering calculations, technical reports, studies, drawings, specifications, and other project documentation in accordance with company and client standards.

ยท      Perform engineering analyses, including electrical system modeling, equipment selection, load calculations, and system evaluations to support design decisions.

ยท      Research, interpret, and apply applicable building codes, regulatory requirements, and industry standards to ensure compliant and high-quality designs.

ยท      Ensure all engineering designs meet applicable codes, client requirements, project specifications, and industry best practices.

ยท      Exercise sound engineering judgment, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills to proactively identify and resolve technical challenges.

ยท      Contribute to the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of engineering standards, design procedures, and quality assurance practices.

ยท      Collaborate effectively with departmental leadership, senior engineers, project managers, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver successful project outcomes.


We are looking for someone who has:

ยท      Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited college or university required.

ยท      Minimum of five (5) years of progressive electrical engineering design experience on commercial, municipal, institutional, and/or public-sector projects.

ยท      Professional Engineer (P.E.) license preferred; Engineer-in-Training (E.I.T.) certification is a plus.

ยท      Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit, with experience using Building Information Modeling (BIM) for project coordination.

ยท      Demonstrated ability to perform electrical engineering calculations, conduct technical analyses, and select appropriate electrical equipment and systems.

ยท      Strong knowledge of applicable building codes, electrical standards, and industry best practices.

ยท      Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with strong attention to detail.

ยท      Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team environment.

ยท      Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively interact with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders.

  • Ability to work in the office five days per week


At Globetrotters, you are offered the diverse opportunities that are found at a larger firm but are within the more collaborative and close-knit environment of a mid-size firm. Your perspective and exceptional skills will be valued here.

 

Starting salary range is $90,000 - $120,000 Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation within the range will be dependent on factors, including but not limited to, the candidateโ€™s experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.